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There goes a popular Filipino proverbs goes like: “Ang taong naglalakad nang mabilis, madalas mapagod.” It suggests that one should walk slowly emphasising, taking things slowly and with patience. Particularly rich in wisdom about character and life, these proverbs have been passed down through generations, serving as guiding lights in navigating life’s complexities. Keep reading this blog to learn all about popular Filipino proverbs and how they can be implemented in real life.
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What are Filipino Proverbs?
Filipino proverbs, also known as salawikain, kasabihan, or sawikain, are traditional sayings that encapsulate Filipino people’s values, beliefs, and experiences. They offer practical advice, moral lessons, and insights into Filipino life.
Here are some of the characteristics of Filipino proverbs that you should know:
- They are often expressed in a few words but carry deep meaning.
- These proverbs embody Filipino values like family, respect, hard work, and community.
- Filipino proverbs offer guidance for everyday life and decision-making.
Also Read: 11+ Famous Afghan Proverbs (with Meaning) that Will Open Your Eyes!
Popular Filipino Proverbs About Character and Wisdom
After going through the above information, you must understand that Filipino proverbs offer profound insights into human nature, morality, and interpersonal relationships. Go through all the proverbs below which provide information about character and wisdom.
Whatever You Do, Think About it Seven Times
This Filipino proverb emphasises the importance of careful consideration before making a decision or taking action. It suggests that rushing into things without proper thought can lead to negative consequences.
Example: Before quitting your job to start your own business, remember the old saying, ‘Whatever you do, think about it seven times.’ It’s a big decision with significant implications.
He Who Forgets Where He Came From Will Never Reach its Destination
It suggests that a strong connection to one’s past is essential for achieving future goals. In other words, understanding and appreciating where you come from provides a solid foundation for your journey forward.
Example: Despite becoming a renowned surgeon, Dr. Ramirez never forgot his humble beginnings in a small rural town. He often returned to volunteer at the local clinic, proving that he truly understood the proverb, ‘He who forgets where he came from will never reach its destination.’
Spend Lavishly and You End With Nothing
It advises against excessive spending. It implies that if you spend your money recklessly or extravagantly, you will eventually run out of it and be left with nothing.
Example: My brother-in-law bought a new car and a fancy smartphone, despite having debts to pay. It’s like he forgot the old saying, ‘Spend lavishly and you end with nothing.’
Nothing Destroys Iron More Than Its Own Rust
It suggests that one’s greatest enemy or downfall can often come from within oneself. It’s a metaphor for how internal flaws or weaknesses can lead to one’s destruction, even more effectively than external forces.
Example: John was once a promising athlete, but his arrogance and complacency, like rust on iron, eroded his skills and ultimately ended his career.
Experience is the Best Teacher
It says that learning from practical, real-life situations is more valuable than learning from books or theoretical knowledge. It implies that mistakes and successes in life provide invaluable lessons that can’t be fully replicated in a classroom.
Example: I learned more about managing finances after losing my job than I ever did in school. Truly, experience is the best teacher.
Quick Read: 9 Best Proverbs on Art that Are Full of Creativity with Meaning
Popular Filipino Proverbs about Life
Life comes with a lot of ups and downs. Hence comes the role of proverbs which offer guidance and wisdom about day-to-day life. Take a look at some of the Filipino proverbs mentioned below that have been passed down through generations and will be helpful for you.
It’s Difficult to Wake Up Someone Who is Pretending to be Asleep
This proverb implies that it is challenging to convince or enlighten someone who deliberately avoids confronting a truth or problem. They are consciously ignoring the issue, much like someone feigning sleep to avoid being disturbed.
Example: I tried explaining the risks involved in the project, but it was like talking to a brick wall. It’s difficult to wake up someone who is pretending to be asleep.
Every Jungle Has a Snake
It implies that every environment, situation, or group of people has its inherent challenges, dangers, or negative elements. It suggests that it’s impossible to completely avoid difficulties, and one must learn to navigate them with caution and wisdom.
Example: I know you’re excited about starting your new job, but remember, every jungle has a snake. There will be challenges, but with hard work and patience, you’ll overcome them.
A Desperate Person Will Cling to a Knife
This Filipino saying suggests that when someone is in a dire situation, they resort to any means necessary, even if it’s harmful or risky. In such a situation, one should have sense of desperation and a willingness to grasp any solution, no matter how dangerous.
Example: After losing his job and home, John was desperate and took a loan from a loan shark, proving the old saying true: ‘A desperate person will cling to a knife.’
News Has Wings, While the Ground Has Ears
This proverb implies that news spreads rapidly like wings carry a bird and that secrets are difficult to keep as information can be picked up easily, like ears listening to the ground.
Example: I told my secret to only a few people, but I guess ‘news has wings, while the ground has ears’ because everyone seems to know about it now
Also Read: 15 Meaningful Greek Proverbs with Examples and Meaning
Popular Filipino Proverbs about Success
Here are some of the popular Filipino proverbs about success which will be quite helpful to you.
Learn How to Curl Up While the Blanket is Short
This Filipino proverb suggests that when faced with limited resources or unfavourable circumstances, one should adapt and make the most of the situation. It emphasises the importance of flexibility and resourcefulness.
Example: With the rising cost of living, it’s important to learn how to curl up while the blanket is short. We need to find ways to reduce expenses and prioritise our needs.
Promptness Wins Over Diligence
It implies that being punctual and acting quickly, even without excessive effort, is often more beneficial than being thorough or hardworking but slow. It stresses the value of timeliness and efficiency.
Example: While your friend is still meticulously planning every detail of the project, remember that promptness wins over diligence.
A Quitter Never Wins; A Winner Never Quits
It stresses the importance of perseverance and determination. It suggests that those who give up on their goals will never achieve success, while those who persist through challenges are more likely to reach their desired outcomes.
Example: I know it’s tough to keep practising but remember, a quitter never wins; a winner never quits. Keep pushing yourself to improve.
If You Persevere, You Will Reap the Fruits of Your Labour
This Filipino proverb suggests that consistent hard work and determination eventually lead to success and rewards. It emphasises the importance of perseverance in achieving one’s goals.
Example: Despite facing numerous challenges, Sarah persevered with her studies. Eventually, she graduated with honours, reaping the fruits of her labour with a prestigious job offer.
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FAQs
One of the most famous and notable Filipino sayings goes like this: ‘A person who does not remember where he (she) came from will never reach his (her) destination.’ It urges one person to give importance to their roots and origins.
Filipino proverbs are important as they offer timeless wisdom and cultural insights that have been passed down for generations. Not only this, they shape language, convey moral principles, and foster a sense of community.
One of the most famous proverbs about patience is: With patience, there is a boiled dish.” It tells one the importance of patience in achieving success or reaping rewards.
This was all about the “Popular Filipino proverbs.” Hopefully, you understand the concept and where it’s used. You can also follow Leverage Edu for more exciting and informative blogs on Learn English.
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