Colombian Spanish is rich with proverbs that offer a glimpse into the country’s cultural values, humor, and wisdom. These sayings have been passed down through generations and continue to be used in everyday conversation.
Relationships and Love
- Amor de lejos, felices los cuatro: (Love from afar, four people are happy.) This humorous saying suggests that long-distance relationships can lead to infidelity.
- Después de viejo, mandadero: (After becoming old, running errands.) This proverb implies that older people, especially in relationships, may become subservient to their partners.
Street Smarts and Safety
- No dé papaya: (Don’t give papaya.) This popular saying warns against making oneself an easy target for theft or other misfortunes.
- Camarón que se duerme se lo lleva la corriente: (The shrimp that falls asleep gets swept away by the current.) Similar to the English saying “you snooze, you lose,” this proverb emphasizes the importance of staying alert.
Work and Business Ethics
- El que tiene tienda que la atienda, o si no que la venda: (He who has a shop should mind it, or else sell it.) This proverb stresses the importance of personal responsibility and dedication to one’s work.
- A ojo cerrado: (With closed eyes.) This saying means to do something with complete confidence or trust, often used in business contexts.
Life Lessons
- En boca cerrada no entran moscas: (Flies don’t enter a closed mouth.) This proverb emphasizes the importance of discretion and knowing when to keep quiet.
- No todo lo que brilla es oro: (Not all that glitters is gold.) This saying reminds us not to judge people or things by their appearance.
Family and Social Relations
- Hijo de tigre sale pintado: (A tiger’s cub is born with stripes.) This proverb suggests that children inherit their parents’ traits.
- Al que madruga, Dios le ayuda: (God helps those who wake up early.) This proverb emphasizes the importance of hard work and diligence.
Regional Variations
Different regions in Colombia have their own unique proverbs:
- Coastal Region: La vida es un tango y hay que saberlo bailar: (Life is a tango and you must know how to dance it.) This saying emphasizes the importance of adaptability and flexibility.
- Andean Region: Más vale pájaro en mano que ciento volando: (Better a bird in hand than a hundred flying.) This proverb emphasizes the importance of appreciating what you have.
Modern Usage
Colombian proverbs continue to be used in everyday conversation, often with a modern twist. They are a valuable part of Colombian culture and offer insights into the country’s values and way of life.