He who lies long in bed his estate feels it.

Meaning: Laziness depletes wealth as surely as an idle body consumes resources without producing income.

Origin: Recorded in A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases, an undated collection published in London by Whittaker & Co. around 1880 and credited to Thomas Preston. Its earlier history hasn't been traced.

More proverbs about Communication

From our false friends

  • 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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