Cuban sayings, or dichos cubanos, offer a vibrant glimpse into the island’s culture, reflecting centuries of accumulated wisdom delivered with characteristic humor and charm. Through these sayings, you’ll discover how Cubans view life, relationships, and daily challenges.
Words of Warning
- Camarón que se duerme se lo lleva la corriente (The shrimp that sleeps is carried away by the current) stands as one of the most recognized Cuban sayings. This clever metaphor warns you against becoming complacent – opportunities and life itself wait for no one.
- No es lo mismo llamar al diablo que verlo venir (It’s not the same to call the devil as to see him coming) distinguishes between anticipating problems and actually facing them. You might feel brave discussing challenges, but the reality often proves more daunting.
Wisdom in Daily Life
Cuban sayings frequently address practical matters:
- En boca cerrada no entran moscas (Flies don’t enter a closed mouth) – Choose silence over unnecessary speech
- Al mal tiempo, buena cara (To bad weather, a good face) – Stay positive in difficult situations
- Donde comen dos, comen tres (Where two eat, three can eat) – Celebrates Cuban generosity
Family and Relationships
Family-centered Cuban sayings reveal deep social values:
- Amor con hambre no dura (Love with hunger doesn’t last) – Practical needs matter in relationships
- Hijo de gato, caza ratón (A cat’s child hunts mice) – Children follow their parents’ nature
- De tal palo, tal astilla (Like stick, like splinter) – The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree
Success and Fortune
Many Cuban sayings address prosperity and achievement:
- No hay mal que por bien no venga (There’s no bad that doesn’t bring good) – Every cloud has a silver lining
- A quien madruga, Dios lo ayuda (God helps those who wake early) – Fortune favors the prepared
- Barco parado no gana flete (A docked ship earns no cargo fee) – Success requires action
Life Lessons
Some of the most profound Cuban sayings teach deeper life lessons:
- El que a buen árbol se arrima, buena sombra lo cobija (He who stands near a good tree is covered by good shade) – Choose your associations wisely
- Cada cual sabe donde le aprieta el zapato (Everyone knows where their shoe pinches) – Personal struggles are best understood by those experiencing them
- Del dicho al hecho hay mucho trecho (From saying to doing is a long stretch) – Actions speak louder than words
Modern Usage
While these sayings emerged from traditional Cuban culture, they remain remarkably relevant today. You’ll hear them in Miami’s Little Havana, in casual conversation in Havana, and wherever Cuban communities gather. They bridge generations and continue to evolve, with newer variations adding contemporary references while maintaining their essential wisdom.
Remember, Cuban sayings are more than just phrases – they’re cultural touchstones that connect you to centuries of shared experience and wisdom, delivered with the island’s characteristic wit and insight.