December 5, 2024

Wisdom of the Portuguese: A collection of fifteen meaningful proverbs

  • Água mole em pedra dura, tanto bate até que fura.
    • Translation: Soft water on hard stone, it hits until it drills.
    • Meaning: Persistence pays off; with enough effort, you can achieve your goals.
  • Quem não arrisca, não petisca.
    • Translation: He who doesn’t take risks, doesn’t snack.
    • Meaning: You have to take chances to gain rewards.
  • De grão em grão, a galinha enche o papo.
    • Translation: Grain by grain, the hen fills its belly.
    • Meaning: Small efforts accumulate over time to yield significant results.
  • Cão que ladra não morde.
    • Translation: A dog that barks doesn’t bite.
    • Meaning: Those who make the most noise often pose the least threat.
  • Em boca fechada não entra mosca.
    • Translation: Flies don’t enter a closed mouth.
    • Meaning: Keeping quiet can help you avoid trouble.
  • Mais vale um pássaro na mão do que dois a voar.
    • Translation: A bird in the hand is worth more than two in the air.
    • Meaning: It is better to hold onto something you have than to risk it for something uncertain.
  • Quem tudo quer, tudo perde.
    • Translation: He who wants everything loses everything.
    • Meaning: Greed can lead to losing everything; it’s better to be content with what you have.
  • Devagar se vai ao longe.
    • Translation: Slowly one goes far.
    • Meaning: Patience and steady progress lead to success.
  • O hábito faz o monge.
    • Translation: The habit makes the monk.
    • Meaning: Your actions and habits define who you are.
  • Cada macaco no seu galho.
    • Translation: Each monkey on its own branch.
    • Meaning: Everyone should stick to their own responsibilities or expertise.
  • Quem tem boca vai a Roma.
    • Translation: He who has a mouth goes to Rome.
    • Meaning: Speaking up and asking for help can get you far.
  • A união faz a força.
    • Translation: Unity makes strength.
    • Meaning: Working together leads to greater success.
  • Não adianta chorar sobre o leite derramado.
    • Translation: It’s no use crying over spilled milk.
    • Meaning: There’s no point in lamenting past mistakes; focus on the future.
  • Saco vazio não para em pé.
    • Translation: An empty sack doesn’t stand up.
    • Meaning: You need to take care of your basic needs before you can expect to succeed in other areas.
  • Quem semeia ventos, colhe tempestades.
    • Translation: He who sows winds reaps storms.
    • Meaning: Your actions have consequences; if you cause trouble, you will face greater problems later.