ProverbCommunicationInternational origin

A gentle word opens an iron gate

Meaning: Kindness and diplomacy can overcome even the most resistant obstacles.

Origin: Listed in English-language collections of Bulgarian proverbs, but no early Bulgarian source has been traced. It belongs to a large family of sayings holding that kindness achieves more than force.

Equivalents in German

  • German: Mit dem Hut in der Hand kommt man durch das ganze Land (literally: With your hat in your hand you get through the whole country)

Explore another collection: False Friends

Words that look familiar in another language but mean something else entirely.

  • Educado Actually means 'polite' or 'well-mannered'. For educated (schooled), say instruído.
  • Balcão Actually means 'counter' — in a shop, bar or bank. A balcony is uma varanda.
  • Injúria Actually means 'insult' or 'slander'. A physical injury is uma lesão or um ferimento.

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