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First come, first served

Meaning: Opportunities go to those who arrive early.

Origin: English proverb from the 16th century, used by Henry Brinklow in 1545.

Translations

  • French: Premier arrivé, premier servi (literally: First arrived, first served)
  • Spanish: El que primero llega, primero come (literally: The first to arrive eats first)
  • Japanese: 先着順 (Senchaku jun) (literally: Order of arrival)

More proverbs about Wisdom

  • A fool and his money are soon parted — Foolish people quickly lose their wealth.
  • The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago; the second best time is now — The right time to act is always now, no matter how late it feels.
  • To know the road ahead, ask those coming back — Learn from people with experience before embarking on an unfamiliar path.
  • The bamboo that bends is stronger than the oak that resists — Flexibility and adaptability are greater strengths than rigid resistance.
  • When the student is ready, the teacher will appear — Learning happens when one is truly open and prepared to receive knowledge.
  • He who asks a question is a fool for five minutes; he who does not ask remains a fool forever — Admitting ignorance and seeking knowledge is always wiser than pretending to understand.

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