German Proverbs

Every proverb in our collection, translated into German. Each entry pairs the original saying with its German translation, a literal rendering, and where it comes from.

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• Die Feder ist mächtiger als das Schwert — Writing and ideas have more influence than violence. Literally: The pen is mightier than the sword.
• Wo ein Wille ist, ist auch ein Weg — Determination will help you find a solution. Literally: Where there is a will, there is also a way.
• Blut ist dicker als Wasser — Family bonds are stronger than other relationships. Literally: Blood is thicker than water.
• Vier Augen sehen mehr als zwei — Collaboration and diverse perspectives lead to better solutions. Literally: Four eyes see more than two.
• Ohne Fleiß kein Preis — You must work hard to achieve results. Literally: Without diligence, no prize.
• Wie man in den Wald hineinruft, so schallt es heraus — Your actions will eventually return to affect you. Literally: As one calls into the forest, so it echoes back.
• Reden ist Silber, Schweigen ist Gold — Sometimes it's better to say nothing. Literally: Speaking is silver, silence is gold.
• Die Kirschen in Nachbars Garten schmecken immer süßer — What others have always seems better than what you have. Literally: The cherries in the neighbour's garden always taste sweeter.
• Der Spatz in der Hand ist besser als die Taube auf dem Dach — It's better to have something certain now than to risk it for something uncertain in the future. Literally: The sparrow in the hand is better than the pigeon on the roof.
• Übung macht den Meister — Repeated practice leads to mastery. Literally: Practice makes the master.
• Gleich und gleich gesellt sich gern — People with similar interests or characteristics tend to associate with each other. Literally: Like and like gladly keep company.
• Beharrlichkeit führt zum Ziel — Perseverance is the key to mastery and resilience. Literally: Persistence leads to the goal.
• Aus der Not eine Tugend machen — Make the best of a bad situation. Literally: To make a virtue out of necessity.
• Man soll nicht alle Eier in einen Korb legen — Don't risk everything on one venture. Literally: One should not put all the eggs in one basket.
• Taten sagen mehr als Worte — What you do matters more than what you say. Literally: Deeds say more than words.
• Rom wurde nicht an einem Tag erbaut — Great things take time and patience. Literally: Rome was not built in one day.
• Kein Unglück so groß, es hat ein Glück im Schoß — There is always something positive in every difficult situation. Literally: No misfortune so great that it does not carry fortune in its lap.
• Ehrlich währt am längsten — Being truthful is always the right approach. Literally: Honest lasts longest.
• Erst wägen, dann wagen — Think carefully before acting. Literally: First weigh, then dare.
• Der Schein trügt — Appearances can be deceiving. Literally: Appearances deceive.
• Vorbeugen ist besser als Heilen — Fixing a problem early prevents bigger issues later. Literally: Preventing is better than healing.
• Man soll den Tag nicht vor dem Abend loben — Don't assume success before it happens. Literally: One should not praise the day before the evening.
• Viele Köche verderben den Brei — Too many people involved can ruin a project. Literally: Many cooks spoil the porridge.
• Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund — Those who act first gain advantage. Literally: The morning hour has gold in its mouth.
• Besser spät als nie — Doing something late is better than not doing it at all. Literally: Better late than never.
• Neugier ist der Katze Tod — Being too inquisitive can lead to trouble. Literally: Curiosity is the cat's death.
• Not macht erfinderisch — Difficult situations inspire creative solutions. Literally: Need makes one inventive.
• Der Apfel fällt nicht weit vom Stamm — Children often resemble their parents. Literally: The apple does not fall far from the trunk.
• Wissen ist Macht — Education and learning give you strength and advantage. Literally: Knowledge is power.
• Die Zeit heilt alle Wunden — Emotional pain fades with the passage of time. Literally: Time heals all wounds.
• Was der Mensch sät, das wird er ernten — Your actions determine your outcomes. Literally: What a person sows, that he will reap.
• Lachen ist die beste Medizin — Humor and joy can help overcome difficulties. Literally: Laughter is the best medicine.
• Kein Rauch ohne Feuer — Rumors or signs usually indicate some truth. Literally: No smoke without fire.
• Eile mit Weile — Consistency and patience lead to success. Literally: Hurry with leisure.
• Gib einem Mann einen Fisch und du ernährst ihn für einen Tag; lehre ihn zu fischen und du ernährst ihn für sein Leben — Teaching someone is more valuable than doing things for them. Literally: Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach him to fish and you feed him for his life.
• Auge um Auge – und die ganze Welt wird blind — Revenge only creates more suffering. Literally: Eye for eye — and the whole world goes blind.
• Es ist nicht alles Gold, was glänzt — Appearances can be misleading. Literally: Not everything that shines is gold.
• Was du nicht willst, dass man dir tu, das füg auch keinem andern zu — Treat people the way you want to be treated. Literally: What you do not want done to you, do not do to anyone else either.
• Wer wagt, gewinnt — Taking risks often leads to rewards. Literally: He who dares, wins.
• In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen — When you need help, you accept what's offered. Literally: In times of need, the devil eats flies.
• Leere Fässer klingen hohl — Those who know the least often talk the most. Literally: Empty barrels sound hollow.
• Stille Wasser sind tief — Quiet people often have great depth of character. Literally: Still waters are deep.
• Um ein Kind zu erziehen, braucht es ein ganzes Dorf — Community support is essential for child development. Literally: To raise a child, a whole village is needed.
• Das Bessere ist der Feind des Guten — Don't change something that's working well. Literally: The better is the enemy of the good.
• Hunde, die bellen, beißen nicht — People who make threats rarely carry them out. Literally: Dogs that bark do not bite.
• Man soll nicht die Hand beißen, die einen füttert — Don't harm those who help you. Literally: One should not bite the hand that feeds one.
• Was dem einen sin Uhl, ist dem annern sin Nachtigall — What one person discards, another may value. Literally: What is one person's owl is another person's nightingale.
• Das Geld liegt nicht auf der Straße — Money is hard to earn and should be spent wisely. Literally: Money doesn't lie in the street.
• Andere Länder, andere Sitten — Adapt to local customs when visiting a new place. Literally: Other countries, other customs.
• Wer im Glashaus sitzt, soll nicht mit Steinen werfen — Don't criticize others if you have the same faults. Literally: He who sits in a glass house should not throw stones.
• Geduld bringt Rosen — Patience is rewarded. Literally: Patience brings roses.
• Halte deine Freunde nah, aber deine Feinde noch näher — It's wise to monitor those who might harm you. Literally: Keep your friends close, but your enemies even closer.
• Ein Bild sagt mehr als tausend Worte — Visual information communicates more effectively than text. Literally: A picture says more than a thousand words.
• Hansdampf in allen Gassen — Versatility can come at the cost of expertise. Literally: Jack Steam in every alley.
• Eigener Herd ist Goldes wert — Home is where you feel most comfortable. Literally: One's own hearth is worth gold.
• Eile mit Weile — Rushing leads to mistakes and wasted effort. Literally: Hurry with leisure.
• Geschehen ist geschehen — Don't worry about things that have already happened. Literally: What has happened has happened.
• Man muss das Eisen schmieden, solange es heiß ist — Act quickly when the opportunity presents itself. Literally: One must forge the iron while it is hot.
• Man kann ein Pferd zur Tränke führen, aber nicht zum Saufen zwingen — You can offer help, but you can't force someone to accept it. Literally: You can lead a horse to the watering trough, but you cannot force it to drink.
• Geteiltes Leid ist halbes Leid — Unhappy people seek others who are also suffering. Literally: Shared sorrow is half sorrow.
• Mit den Wölfen muss man heulen — If you can't win against something, align with it. Literally: With the wolves one must howl.
• Wer den Pfennig nicht ehrt, ist des Talers nicht wert — Saving money is just as valuable as earning it. Literally: He who does not honour the penny is not worth the thaler.
• Der Weg zur Hölle ist mit guten Vorsätzen gepflastert — Good plans are worthless without follow-through. Literally: The way to hell is paved with good resolutions.
• Wie gewonnen, so zerronnen — Things obtained without effort are easily lost. Literally: As won, so melted away.
• Wo gehobelt wird, da fallen Späne — Progress requires sacrifice. Literally: Where planing is done, shavings fall.
• Was mich nicht umbringt, macht mich stärker — Adversity builds resilience and character. Literally: What does not kill me makes me stronger.
• Zum Streiten gehören immer zwei — Both parties are responsible in a conflict. Literally: It always takes two to quarrel.
• Aus den Augen, aus dem Sinn — We tend to forget things or people we don't see. Literally: Out of the eyes, out of the mind.
• Probieren geht über Studieren — Results speak louder than promises. Literally: Trying beats studying.
• Die Wahrheit wird euch frei machen — Honesty and truth lead to liberation. Literally: The truth will make you free.
• Wer nicht wagt, der nicht gewinnt — You must take risks to achieve rewards. Literally: He who does not dare does not win.
• Einigkeit macht stark — Strength comes from unity. Literally: Unity makes strong.
• Wer die Vergangenheit nicht kennt, ist dazu verdammt, sie zu wiederholen — Ignoring past mistakes leads to repeating them. Literally: Whoever does not know the past is condemned to repeat it.
• Irren ist menschlich, vergeben göttlich — Making mistakes is natural; forgiving them is noble. Literally: To err is human, to forgive divine.
• Leben und leben lassen — Be tolerant of others' choices and lifestyles. Literally: Live and let live.
• Wer A sagt, muss auch B sagen — Once committed to something, go all the way with it. Literally: He who says A must also say B.
• Eine Katze hat sieben Leben — Cats (or resilient people) survive many dangerous situations. Literally: A cat has seven lives.
• Das Kind mit dem Bade ausschütten — Don't discard something valuable while getting rid of unwanted things. Literally: To pour out the child with the bath.
• Ein Loch mit dem anderen zustopfen — Solve one problem by creating another. Literally: To plug one hole with another.
• In der Liebe und im Krieg ist alles erlaubt — Normal rules don't apply in romance or conflict. Literally: In love and in war everything is permitted.
• Man kann nicht auf zwei Hochzeiten tanzen — You can't enjoy two mutually exclusive things simultaneously. Literally: You can't dance at two weddings.
• Vorsicht ist besser als Nachsicht — It's wiser to be cautious than to take unnecessary risks. Literally: Caution is better than hindsight.
• Bis ans Ende der Welt — Going to any length for something or someone. Literally: To the end of the world.
• Vom Regen in die Traufe kommen — Escaping one bad situation only to end up in a worse one. Literally: To come out of the rain into the roof gutter.
• Name ist Schall und Rauch — The essence of something doesn't depend on what it's called. Literally: A name is sound and smoke.
• Zwei Fliegen mit einer Klappe schlagen — Accomplish two tasks with a single action. Literally: To hit two flies with one swat.
• Ein Esel schimpft den anderen Langohr — Criticizing someone for a flaw you yourself possess. Literally: One donkey calls the other one long-ears.
• Wer zu viel fasst, lässt viel fallen — Don't take on more than you can handle. Literally: He who grasps too much lets much fall.
• Auch ein blindes Huhn findet mal ein Korn — Everyone will have their moment of success or good fortune. Literally: Even a blind hen finds a grain of corn now and then.
• Keine Rose ohne Dornen — Even the best things have their drawbacks. Literally: No rose without thorns.
• Aus Schaden wird man klug — Success requires learning from mistakes. Literally: From harm one becomes wise.
• Freunde in der Not gehen tausend auf ein Lot — True friends show their worth during difficult times. Literally: Friends in need — a thousand of them go to one lot (tiny weight).
• Ende gut, alles gut — A good outcome justifies the difficulties along the way. Literally: End good, all good.
• Wälzender Stein wird nicht moosig — Those who keep moving avoid stagnation (or commitments). Literally: A rolling stone does not become mossy.
• Ehre, wem Ehre gebührt — Acknowledge others' contributions fairly. Literally: Honour to whom honour is due.
• Schönheit liegt im Auge des Betrachters — Perception of beauty is subjective and personal. Literally: Beauty lies in the eye of the beholder.
• Eine Kette ist nur so stark wie ihr schwächstes Glied — A group's effectiveness is limited by its weakest member. Literally: A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
• Auch der längste Weg beginnt mit dem ersten Schritt — Great accomplishments start with small beginnings. Literally: Even the longest road begins with the first step.
• Wer hoch steigt, fällt tief — Powerful people suffer greater consequences when they fail. Literally: He who climbs high falls deep.
• Sprich leise und trage einen großen Stock, dann wirst du weit kommen — Act gently but maintain the power to enforce if needed. Literally: Speak quietly and carry a big stick, then you will go far.
• Schönheit vergeht, Tugend besteht — Physical appearance is superficial; character matters more. Literally: Beauty fades, virtue remains.
• Man soll nicht alle Brücken hinter sich abbrechen — Don't destroy relationships you might need later. Literally: One should not break down all the bridges behind oneself.
• Ost und West, daheim das Best — No matter where you go, home remains the best place. Literally: East and west, at home is the best.
• Perlen vor die Säue werfen — Giving something valuable to those who can't appreciate it. Literally: To throw pearls before the sows.
• Wasser predigen und Wein trinken — Live according to the principles you advocate. Literally: To preach water and drink wine.
• Hinterher ist man immer klüger — Past decisions are always clearer in retrospect. Literally: Afterwards one is always wiser.
• Schlafende Hunde soll man nicht wecken — Don't stir up trouble that has settled down. Literally: One should not wake sleeping dogs.
• Man muss die Gelegenheit beim Schopfe packen — Chances don't come twice; seize them when they appear. Literally: One must grab opportunity by the forelock.
• Hochmut kommt vor dem Fall — Arrogance often precedes failure. Literally: Arrogance comes before the fall.
• Ein Apfel am Tag hält den Doktor fern — Regular healthy habits prevent illness. Literally: An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
• Wenn dies auch Wahnsinn ist, so hat es doch Methode — Apparent chaos may have an underlying purpose. Literally: Even if this be madness, it nonetheless has method.
• Gottes Mühlen mahlen langsam, aber sicher — Justice takes time but eventually arrives. Literally: God's mills grind slowly, but surely.
• Der Teufel steckt im Detail — Small details can cause major problems. Literally: The devil lurks in the detail.
• Abwechslung erfreut — Diversity makes life interesting. Literally: Variety delights.
• Alles hat ein Ende — Nothing pleasant lasts forever. Literally: Everything has an end.
• Wenn man vom Teufel spricht, ist er nicht weit — Said when someone appears just as they're being discussed. Literally: When one speaks of the devil, he is not far away.
• Allen Menschen recht getan, ist eine Kunst, die niemand kann — It's impossible to satisfy every person all the time. Literally: To do right by all people is an art that no one can manage.
• Ein halbes Ei ist besser als eine leere Schale — Something is better than nothing. Literally: Half an egg is better than an empty shell.
• Man muss das Rad nicht neu erfinden — Don't waste effort on solved problems. Literally: One need not invent the wheel anew.
• Das Pferd am Schwanz aufzäumen — Do things in the correct order. Literally: To bridle the horse by the tail.
• Beharrlichkeit führt zum Ziel — Persistence is essential to success. Literally: Persistence leads to the goal.
• Der Zweck heiligt die Mittel — A good outcome excuses questionable methods. Literally: The purpose sanctifies the means.
• Zwei Dumme, ein Gedanke — Intelligent people often reach the same conclusions. Literally: Two fools, one thought.
• Viele Hände machen der Arbeit schnell ein Ende — Tasks are easier when shared among many people. Literally: Many hands quickly make an end of the work.
• Was du heute kannst besorgen, das verschiebe nicht auf morgen — Avoid procrastination. Literally: What you can take care of today, do not put off until tomorrow.
• Die Katze lässt das Mausen nicht — People can't fundamentally change their nature. Literally: The cat will not give up catching mice.
• Ist die Katze aus dem Haus, tanzen die Mäuse auf dem Tisch — People behave freely when authority is absent. Literally: When the cat is out of the house, the mice dance on the table.
• Blut, Schweiß und Tränen — Great achievement requires immense effort and sacrifice. Literally: Blood, sweat and tears.
• Kommt die Zeit, kommt der Rat — Deal with problems only when they arise. Literally: When the time comes, the counsel comes.
• Wer nicht wagt, der nicht gewinnt — Greater rewards require greater risks. Literally: He who does not dare does not win.
• Jeder ist sich selbst der Nächste — Take care of your own family before helping others. Literally: Everyone is his own nearest neighbour.
• Teile und herrsche — Achieve dominance by breaking opposition into smaller parts. Literally: Divide and rule.
• Einem geschenkten Gaul schaut man nicht ins Maul — Don't question the value of a gift. Literally: One does not look into the mouth of a gifted nag.
• Ein Unglück kommt selten allein — Troubles often come all at once. Literally: A misfortune seldom comes alone.
• Alle Wege führen nach Rom — There are many ways to reach the same goal. Literally: All roads lead to Rome.
• Man lernt nie aus — Learning is a lifelong process. Literally: One never finishes learning.
• Jedem das Seine — Everyone has their own preferences and choices. Literally: To each his own.
• Was Hänschen nicht lernt, lernt Hans nimmermehr — It's difficult to change established habits. Literally: What little Hans doesn't learn, grown Hans will never learn.
• Umsonst ist der Tod, und der kostet das Leben — Everything has a hidden cost. Literally: Only death is free, and it costs you your life.
• Aller Anfang ist schwer — Starting something new requires the most courage. Literally: Every beginning is hard.
• Die Schöne und das Biest — Opposites can coexist or attract. Literally: The Beautiful One and the Beast.
• Aus einer Mücke einen Elefanten machen — Don't exaggerate small problems. Literally: To make an elephant out of a gnat.
• Geduld bringt Rosen — The ability to wait calmly is a valuable quality. Literally: Patience brings roses.
• Das Gras verdorrt, die Blume verwelkt — All worldly things are temporary. Literally: The grass withers, the flower wilts.
• Wer zuerst kommt, mahlt zuerst — Opportunities go to those who arrive early. Literally: He who comes first, mills first.
• Hunger ist der beste Koch — Food tastes better when you're truly hungry. Literally: Hunger is the best cook.
• Keine Nachricht ist eine gute Nachricht — The absence of bad news is itself good news. Literally: No news is good news.
• Jeder für sich und Gott für uns alle — In crisis, everyone must look after their own interests. Literally: Each one for himself and God for us all.
• Kein Mensch ist eine Insel — Humans need connection with others. Literally: No human being is an island.
• Getroffene Hunde bellen — Accept criticism that accurately applies to you. Literally: Dogs that have been hit are the ones that bark.
• Frisch gewagt ist halb gewonnen — Indecision leads to missed opportunities. Literally: Boldly ventured is half won.
• Der Kunde ist König — In business, the customer's satisfaction takes priority. Literally: The customer is king.
• Besser spät als nie — The right time to act is always now, no matter how late it feels. Literally: Better late than never.
• Steter Tropfen höhlt den Stein — Persistent small efforts accomplish what force alone cannot. Literally: A constant drop hollows the stone.
• Wenn die Not am größten, ist die Hilfe am nächsten — Situations often worsen right before they improve dramatically. Literally: When the need is greatest, help is nearest.
• Besser biegen als brechen — Flexibility and adaptability are greater strengths than rigid resistance. Literally: Better to bend than to break.
• Sage mir, mit wem du umgehst, und ich sage dir, wer du bist — The company you keep reflects and shapes your own character. Literally: Tell me with whom you associate, and I'll tell you who you are.
• Mit dem Hut in der Hand kommt man durch das ganze Land — Kindness and diplomacy can overcome even the most resistant obstacles. Literally: With your hat in your hand you get through the whole country.
• Wenn der Schüler bereit ist, erscheint der Lehrer — Learning happens when one is truly open and prepared to receive knowledge. Literally: When the pupil is ready, the teacher appears.
• Ein gutes Wort findet einen guten Ort — A single act of kindness has an impact far greater and longer-lasting than the moment it was given. Literally: A good word finds a good place.
• Reden ist Silber, Schweigen ist Gold — Saying nothing is often wiser than speaking without knowledge. Literally: Speaking is silver, silence is gold.
• Es ist besser, eine Kerze anzuzünden, als über die Dunkelheit zu klagen — Taking constructive action is more effective than complaining about a problem. Literally: It is better to light a candle than to complain about the darkness.
• Wer nicht fragt, bleibt dumm — Admitting ignorance and seeking knowledge is always wiser than pretending to understand. Literally: He who does not ask stays stupid.
• Der Fisch stinkt vom Kopf — Problems in an organization or society start at the top, with its leaders. Literally: The fish stinks from the head.
• Jeder weiß am besten, wo ihn der Schuh drückt — Only the person experiencing a difficulty truly understands its depth. Literally: Everyone knows best where the shoe pinches him.
• Auch die Sonne hat ihre Flecken — Nothing and nobody is perfect; even the greatest things have their flaws. Literally: The sun too has its spots.
• Gesundheit ist der größte Reichtum — Good health is the foundation upon which all other good things in life are built. Literally: Health is the greatest wealth.
• Geteiltes Leid ist halbes Leid — Talking about difficulties with others makes them easier to bear and to solve. Literally: Shared sorrow is half the sorrow.
• Einigkeit macht stark — Collective effort by many can overcome even the most powerful opposition. Literally: Unity makes strong.
• Jung gewohnt, alt getan — Early experiences and upbringing shape a person's lifelong character and habits. Literally: Accustomed to it when young, doing it when old.
• Ein Haus, das mit sich selbst uneins ist, kann nicht bestehen — Internal conflict destroys an organization from within; unity is essential for survival. Literally: A house that is at odds with itself cannot endure.
• Die Hunde bellen, die Karawane zieht weiter — Those with true integrity remain unaffected by baseless criticism or petty noise. Literally: The dogs bark, the caravan moves on.
• Ich weiß, dass ich nichts weiß — True knowledge reveals the vastness of what remains to be learned. Literally: I know that I know nothing.
• Wenn du schnell gehen willst, geh allein; wenn du weit gehen willst, geht gemeinsam — Short-term speed comes from solitude; long-term achievement comes from collaboration. Literally: If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.
• Gesundheit ist der größte Reichtum — Good health is more valuable than any material possession or social status. Literally: Health is the greatest wealth.
• Richtet nicht, auf dass ihr nicht gerichtet werdet — We should refrain from judging others because we ourselves are imperfect. Literally: Judge not, so that you are not judged.
• Wohltun trägt Zinsen — Helping others ultimately benefits yourself as well. Literally: Doing good bears interest.
• Wenn der Reiter nichts taugt, ist das Pferd schuld — Incompetent people blame external factors for their failures instead of taking responsibility. Literally: When the rider is no good, the horse gets the blame.
• Ein gutes Gewissen ist ein sanftes Ruhekissen — Peace of mind and restful sleep come only from living and acting honorably. Literally: A good conscience is a soft resting-pillow.
• Adler fangen keine Fliegen — People of high purpose and ambition don't concern themselves with petty matters. Literally: Eagles do not catch flies.
• Je mehr Gesetze, je weniger Recht — Excessive rules and regulations can undermine rather than promote fairness. Literally: The more laws, the less justice.
• Man kann nicht zweimal in denselben Fluss steigen — Everything is constantly in flux; no experience can ever truly be repeated. Literally: One cannot step into the same river twice.
• Die Wände haben Ohren — Be careful what you say — you may be overheard in unexpected places. Literally: The walls have ears.
• Halbwissen ist schlimmer als Nichtwissen — Partial knowledge breeds overconfidence and can be more harmful than honest ignorance. Literally: Half-knowledge is worse than no knowledge.
• Taten sprechen mehr als Worte — Actions and results are far more valuable than promises and fine words. Literally: Deeds speak more than words.
• Steter Tropfen höhlt den Stein — Great accomplishments are only possible through gradual, persistent small efforts. Literally: A constant drop hollows out the stone.
• Geteiltes Leid ist halbes Leid, geteilte Freude ist doppelte Freude — Happiness multiplies and burdens lighten when shared with others. Literally: Shared suffering is half the suffering, shared joy is double the joy.
• Ein hungriger Bauch hat keine Ohren — People cannot focus on anything else when their most basic needs are unmet. Literally: A hungry belly has no ears.
• Klein, aber oho — Determination and spirit matter far more than physical size or advantage. Literally: Small, but wow.
• Wie der Anfang, so das Ende — How you start something largely determines how it will finish; preparation and intention matter. Literally: As the beginning, so the end.
• Eine sanfte Antwort stillt den Zorn — Responding calmly to anger defuses conflict; harsh replies only escalate it. Literally: A gentle answer stills wrath.
• Viel Geschrei und wenig Wolle — The most dramatic announcements often yield the least substance. Literally: Much bleating and little wool.
• Beharrlichkeit führt zum Ziel — Progress at any pace is still progress; what matters is persisting, not speed. Literally: Perseverance leads to the goal.
• Steter Tropfen höhlt den Stein — Long-term persistence is more powerful than raw ability or brute force. Literally: A constant drop hollows out the stone.
• Auch der längste Weg beginnt mit dem ersten Schritt — Every great achievement starts with one humble first step. Literally: Even the longest road begins with the first step.
• Geduld überwindet alles — Persistence and endurance are the ultimate keys to victory. Literally: Patience overcomes everything.
• Was ich nicht weiß, macht mich nicht heiß — We only suffer from what we know about; ignorance can sometimes bring a measure of peace. Literally: What I don't know doesn't make me hot (doesn't bother me).
• Gewohnheit ist die zweite Natur — Character and identity are shaped not by occasional acts but by consistent daily habits. Literally: Habit is the second nature.
• Jeder hat sein Kreuz zu tragen — Hardship and misfortune are universal; no single person suffers alone. Literally: Everyone has his cross to bear.
• Den Wald vor Bäumen nicht sehen — Being too focused on small details can prevent you from seeing the overall picture. Literally: Not to see the forest because of the trees.
• Der Wolf ändert wohl das Haar, doch bleibt er, wie er war — Surface appearances can change, but a person's fundamental nature remains the same. Literally: The wolf may change his hair, but he stays as he was.
• Nicht alle, die wandern, sind verloren — Those who explore unconventional paths may have a deeper sense of direction than it appears. Literally: Not all who wander are lost.
• Andere erkennen ist Weisheit, sich selbst erkennen ist Erleuchtung — Understanding others requires wisdom, but self-knowledge is the highest form of understanding. Literally: To know others is wisdom, to know oneself is enlightenment.
• Erst wägen, dann wagen — Take time to plan carefully before acting, to avoid costly and irreversible mistakes. Literally: First weigh, then dare.
• Wer mit Ungeheuern kämpft, mag zusehn, dass er nicht zum Ungeheuer wird — In struggling against evil, we risk adopting the very characteristics we oppose. Literally: Whoever fights with monsters had better see to it that he does not become a monster.
• Die Philosophie beginnt mit dem Staunen — Curiosity and a sense of amazement at the world are the foundations of all knowledge. Literally: Philosophy begins with wondering/astonishment.
• Wer zwei Hasen zugleich jagt, fängt keinen — Trying to do too many things at once means accomplishing nothing properly. Literally: He who hunts two hares at once catches none.
• Geh nicht dorthin, wo der Weg hinführt; geh dorthin, wo kein Weg ist, und hinterlasse eine Spur — True innovation and leadership mean forging your own way rather than following the crowd. Literally: Do not go where the way leads; go where there is no way, and leave behind a trace.
• Ein Nagel treibt den andern aus — New habits, relationships, or ideas can effectively replace and eliminate old ones. Literally: One nail drives the other out.
• Frisch begonnen ist halb gewonnen — Starting something difficult is the hardest part; once begun, completion comes more naturally. Literally: Briskly begun is half won.
• Auf dem Gebiet der Forschung begünstigt der Zufall nur den vorbereiteten Geist — Success comes not from luck alone but from being ready to seize opportunities when they arise. Literally: In the field of research, chance favors only the prepared mind.
• Die Furcht macht den Wolf größer, als er ist — Anxiety and worry magnify threats beyond their actual size. Literally: Fear makes the wolf bigger than he is.
• Es scheint immer unmöglich, bis es getan ist — Before any achievement, it appears beyond reach; only completion reveals it was always possible. Literally: It always seems impossible until it is done.
• Durch Schaden wird man klug — Our deepest pains and failures can become our greatest teachers and sources of strength. Literally: Through harm one becomes wise.
• Wer wagt, gewinnt — Bold action and courage are rewarded; timidity leads to missed opportunities. Literally: He who dares, wins.
• Erkenne dich selbst — Self-knowledge and self-awareness are the foundation of all wisdom and right living. Literally: Know yourself.
• Spare in der Zeit, so hast du in der Not — Using things carefully and avoiding waste prevents future need and scarcity. Literally: Save in good times, and you will have in time of need.
• Wer schweigt, stimmt zu — Silently allowing wrongdoing makes you as responsible as the wrongdoer. Literally: He who stays silent agrees.
• Die Wahrheit ist selten rein und niemals einfach — Reality is complex and nuanced; anyone claiming simple certainty should be viewed with skepticism. Literally: The truth is seldom pure and never simple.
• Wo ein Wille ist, ist auch ein Weg — With true determination and commitment, any obstacle can be overcome. Literally: Where there is a will, there is also a way.
• Bei Nacht sind alle Katzen grau — When darkness obscures differences, all things appear equal or indistinguishable. Literally: At night all cats are gray.
• Mein Haus ist meine Burg — What more sacred, what more strongly guarded by every holy feeling, than a man's own home?. Literally: My house is my castle.
• Der Gast ist wie der Fisch, er bleibt nicht lange frisch — Prolonged proximity to guests or friends exhausts hospitality and tests patience, necessitating respectful departure. Literally: The guest is like the fish, he does not stay fresh for long.
• Unrecht Gut gedeiht nicht — Money obtained through dishonesty ultimately fails to generate lasting wealth or security. Literally: Wrongfully gotten goods do not thrive.
• Heiraten in Eile bereut man mit Weile — (by extension) Joining (or merging) two things together too soon will lead to problems. Literally: Marrying in haste, one regrets at leisure.
• Ein Unglück kommt selten allein — Troubles compound—when one disaster strikes, others typically follow in succession. Literally: A misfortune seldom comes alone.
• Andere Zeiten, andere Sitten — Circumstances change, so rigid adherence to past methods becomes foolish; adapt your approach to present conditions. Literally: Other times, other customs.
• Es gibt für alles ein erstes Mal — It is wise to try different sorts of things or experiences that one is unaccustomed to or wary of. Literally: There is a first time for everything.
• In alten Öfen ist gut backen — Worn-out tools and aging people retain their value and capability despite visible deterioration. Literally: In old ovens it is good to bake.
• Es bleibt immer etwas hängen — Regarding this "mud" term in particular, it may possibly reference a technique of building wattle and daub walls by throwing daub (mud mixed with straw) at the wattle, throwing hard enough that some obtained a good key and remained in place; compare slapdash, a pebbledash effect produced by throwing pebbles at a rendered wall. Literally: Something always sticks.
• Bei Wölfen und Eulen lernt man das Heulen — Association with morally corrupt people inevitably corrupts your own character and behavior through imitation. Literally: Among wolves and owls one learns howling.
• Die Abwesenden haben immer unrecht — Those not present to defend themselves get the blame. Literally: The absent ones are always in the wrong.
• Durch Schaden wird man klug — Hardship teaches wisdom even when it never fills your pockets. Literally: Through harm one becomes wise.
• Rat nach der Tat kommt zu spät — Counsel offered after the deed is already done is worthless. Literally: Advice after the deed comes too late.
• Besser allein als in schlechter Gesellschaft — Solitude preserves your integrity better than compromising yourself through associations with those who corrupt or harm you. Literally: Better alone than in bad company.
• Wie man sich bettet, so liegt man — Your choices about how you arrange your life will directly determine the comfort or discomfort you experience living it. Literally: As one makes one's bed, so one lies.
• Luftschlösser bauen — Imagination costs nothing, but translating dreams into reality requires effort and resources. Literally: To build air-castles.
• Kinder und Narren sagen die Wahrheit — Unguarded honesty emerges from those lacking social filters or awareness of consequences. Literally: Children and fools tell the truth.
• Je näher der Kirche, je ferner von Gott — Proximity to religious institutions cannot substitute for genuine spiritual devotion or moral integrity. Literally: The nearer the church, the farther from God.
• Jeder Hahn ist Herr auf seinem Mist — A person commands confidence and authority only within their familiar domain, losing that assurance elsewhere. Literally: Every cock is master on his own dung heap.
• Sage mir, mit wem du umgehst, und ich sage dir, wer du bist — Your character reflects your chosen associates; select companions who embody your aspirations. Literally: Tell me with whom you associate, and I will tell you who you are.
• Ohne Fleiß kein Preis — Effort and perseverance are necessary prerequisites; you cannot enjoy rewards without enduring the difficult work required to obtain them. Literally: Without diligence, no prize.
• Das schlechteste Rad am Wagen knarrt am meisten — The most damaged or weakest part of any system draws attention and creates problems disproportionate to its size. Literally: The worst wheel on the wagon creaks the most.
• Allen Leuten recht getan, ist eine Kunst, die niemand kann — Rising early cannot satisfy conflicting demands; some desires are inherently incompatible. Literally: To do right by everybody is an art that nobody can manage.
• Ein jeder für sich, Gott für uns alle — Self-interest and communal welfare coexist; individual responsibility doesn't negate collective obligation to others. Literally: Each one for himself, God for us all.
• Von zwei Übeln wählt man das kleinere — When facing unavoidable harm, select the option causing minimum damage rather than suffering the worst possible outcome. Literally: Of two evils one chooses the smaller.
• Was ich nicht weiß, macht mich nicht heiß — Ignorance of misfortune shields us from suffering its emotional weight. Literally: What I don't know doesn't make me hot.
• Eile mit Weile — Steady, moderate effort sustains progress better than rushed, forceful action that exhausts itself quickly. Literally: Haste with leisure.
• Im Trüben fischen — Exploiting chaos and confusion allows cunning people to gain unfair advantages over others. Literally: To fish in the murk.
• Wer schnell gibt, gibt doppelt — Quick generosity prevents the recipient's anxiety and disappointment, making one gift feel like two. Literally: He who gives quickly gives double.
• Lieber der Erste im Dorf als der Zweite in Rom — Leading a humble domain grants more authority and respect than serving in an exalted position. Literally: Rather the first in the village than the second in Rome.
• Gelegenheit macht Diebe — Temptation proves strongest where safeguards are weakest, inviting transgression. Literally: Opportunity makes thieves.
• Liebe und Husten lässt sich nicht verbergen — Genuine affection, like illness, inevitably reveals itself through visible signs despite attempts at concealment. Literally: Love and a cough cannot be concealed.
• Es sind nicht alle Köche, die lange Messer tragen — Not everyone who announces themselves possesses the skill or worthiness their proclamation implies. Literally: Not all who carry long knives are cooks.
• Es ist ein schlechter Vogel, der sein eigenes Nest beschmutzt — Betraying your family or community harms the very foundation of your own security and belonging. Literally: It is a bad bird that dirties its own nest.
• Wo ein Wille ist, ist auch ein Weg — Determination and mental resolve can overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable through sheer commitment. Literally: Where there is a will, there is also a way.
• Wenn die Jugend wüsste, wenn das Alter könnte — We waste years discovering our genuine desires and values, leaving limited time to pursue them meaningfully. Literally: If youth only knew, if old age only could.
• Der Horcher an der Wand hört seine eigene Schand — Eavesdroppers discover harsh truths because people speak candidly when unobserved, unlike flattery offered face-to-face. Literally: The eavesdropper at the wall hears his own disgrace.
• Wenn der Berg nicht zum Propheten kommt, muss der Prophet zum Berg kommen — When obstacles won't move, adapt your approach rather than exhaust yourself demanding change. Literally: If the mountain does not come to the prophet, the prophet must come to the mountain.
• Not lehrt den Bären tanzen — Urgent necessity compels even the most sluggish or elderly to move quickly and act. Literally: Need teaches the bear to dance.
• Eine Nadel im Heuhaufen suchen — Searching for something impossibly small in an overwhelming mass of material wastes effort fruitlessly. Literally: To search for a needle in the haystack.
• Auf einen Hieb fällt kein Baum — Great strength and resilience require persistent effort; single attempts cannot overcome deeply rooted obstacles. Literally: No tree falls at a single stroke.
• Tue recht und scheue niemand — Fulfill your moral duties regardless of feared consequences or uncertain outcomes. Literally: Do right and fear no one.
• Not lehrt beten — Facing life's uncontrollable forces reveals humanity's powerlessness and awakens genuine spiritual need. Literally: Need teaches praying.
• Die Rechnung ohne den Wirt machen — Failing to consult those involved in plans leads to miscalculation and necessary revision. Literally: To make the bill without the innkeeper.
• Gebranntes Kind scheut das Feuer — Past trauma causes excessive caution even toward harmless situations resembling the original threat. Literally: A burnt child shuns the fire.
• Gott gibt Kälte nach Kleidern — Hardship diminishes in proportion to one's vulnerability, or mercy matches misfortune. Literally: God gives cold according to clothes.
• Fleiß bringt Brot, Faulheit Not — Idleness breeds want because accumulated inaction prevents accumulation of resources or opportunity. Literally: Diligence brings bread, laziness brings want.
• Die Trauben sind zu sauer, sagte der Fuchs — Dismissing something as worthless once you've failed to obtain it masks disappointment through false disdain. Literally: The grapes are too sour, said the fox.
• Man kann nicht auf zwei Hochzeiten gleichzeitig tanzen — Trying to sit on two stools simultaneously leaves you falling between them, unsupported and hurt. Literally: You cannot dance at two weddings at the same time.
• Auch ein Pferd strauchelt, und hat doch vier Beine — A flawless partner, like a flawless horse, doesn't exist—accepting minor faults shows wisdom. Literally: Even a horse stumbles, and yet it has four legs.
• Es ist genug, dass jeder Tag seine eigene Plage hat — Worrying about tomorrow's troubles prevents you from managing today's actual problems effectively. Literally: It is enough that each day has its own affliction.
• Eine Schwalbe macht noch keinen Sommer — A single favorable occurrence cannot establish a lasting pattern; sustained evidence requires repetition. Literally: One swallow does not yet make a summer.
• Es wird nicht so heiß gegessen, wie es gekocht wird — More people fear danger than actually experience it; anxiety often exceeds real harm. Literally: Things are not eaten as hot as they are cooked.
• Kleine Ursachen, große Wirkungen — Small negligences compound catastrophically; ignoring minor problems cascades into complete failure. Literally: Small causes, great effects.
• Wo der Strick am dünnsten ist, da reißt er — Failure occurs at the point of greatest vulnerability, not where strength exists. Literally: Where the rope is thinnest, there it tears.
• Ein Wort genügt dem Weisen — The wise person needs only minimal guidance to understand and act on good advice. Literally: One word suffices for the wise man.
• Der Satte glaubt dem Hungrigen nicht — Wealth and privilege create invisible barriers preventing the comfortable from understanding the daily struggles of the poor. Literally: The well-fed man does not believe the hungry one.
• Auch der Wurm krümmt sich, wenn er getreten wird — Even the meekest, most powerless creature will resist when pushed to its absolute limit of suffering. Literally: Even the worm writhes when it is trodden on.
• Ein böses Wort verwundet mehr als ein scharfes Schwert — Physical injuries fade while harsh speech leaves permanent emotional scars impossible to fully repair. Literally: An evil word wounds more than a sharp sword.
• Frisch begonnen ist halb gewonnen — Starting with proper preparation and intention dramatically increases your likelihood of completing any task successfully. Literally: Briskly begun is half won.
• Steter Tropfen höhlt den Stein — Persistent, gentle effort accomplishes what sudden force cannot, through repetition's cumulative power over time. Literally: A constant drop hollows out the stone.
• Gewohnheit ist die zweite Natur — Habits ingrained through repetition become as automatic and instinctive as inborn traits. Literally: Habit is the second nature.
• Lieber beneidet als bemitleidet — Living with others' jealousy over your success beats enduring their sympathy for your failure. Literally: Rather envied than pitied.
• Kleider machen Leute — Outward appearance and presentation significantly influence how others perceive and judge our worth and capabilities. Literally: Clothes make people.
• Eine Hand wäscht die andere — Reciprocal kindness creates a cycle where helping others motivates them to help you in return. Literally: One hand washes the other.
• Jeder hat seine Mucken — Individual differences in temperament and preference are natural; tolerating varied dispositions maintains peaceful coexistence. Literally: Everyone has his own quirks.
• Unkraut vergeht nicht — Neglected problems and bad habits flourish faster than good ones require deliberate cultivation. Literally: Weeds do not perish.
• Gleich und gleich gesellt sich gern — People naturally gravitate toward and trust those who share their values, interests, or circumstances. Literally: Like and like gladly keep company.
• Ehen werden im Himmel geschlossen — Destined partners find each other through forces beyond human control, suggesting compatibility transcends deliberate planning. Literally: Marriages are concluded in heaven.
• Aus der Not eine Tugend machen — When circumstances force action, find dignity and purpose in accepting what you cannot avoid. Literally: To make a virtue out of the need.
• Kurze Rechnung, lange Freundschaft — Settling debts promptly prevents resentment from festering and eroding relationships over time. Literally: Short reckoning, long friendship.
• Haben ist besser als brauchen — Abundance acquired through prudent saving prevents the pain of future scarcity and want. Literally: Having is better than needing.
• Keine Rose ohne Dornen — Beautiful things inherently carry pain or difficulty as inseparable companions in life. Literally: No rose without thorns.
• Man muss die Gelegenheit beim Schopfe packen — Seizing opportunities requires swift action before they slip away or pass beyond your grasp. Literally: One must grab opportunity by the forelock.
• Schuster, bleib bei deinem Leisten — Individuals excel when focusing on their own expertise rather than attempting unfamiliar work outside their competence. Literally: Cobbler, stick to your last.
• Guter Wein bedarf keines Kranzes — Excellent quality requires no advertisement; genuine merit speaks for itself without promotional effort. Literally: Good wine needs no wreath.

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