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Proverbs in Belgium: A Window into Cultural Heritage and Language Diversity

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Belgium is a captivating country known for its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and rich cultural heritage. From the picturesque canals of Bruges to the bustling streets of Brussels and the serene Ardennes forests, Belgium’s diverse landscape reflects its deep-rooted history and vibrant culture.

Belgium is a linguistic mosaic, primarily divided into three regions: Dutch is predominantly spoken in Flanders, the northern part of Belgium, while French is mainly spoken in Wallonia, the southern region. A small German-speaking community resides in the eastern part of the country. This linguistic patchwork is a testament to Belgium’s rich heritage, shaped by Celtic, Roman, and later European powers.

This multilingual environment has given rise to a unique collection of proverbs, each with its own historical and cultural background. Belgian proverbs often stem from folklore, historical events, and daily life, offering insights into the values, humor, and wisdom. Get familiar with the history of Belgium.

Belgian proverbs with English translations – Dutch, French, German

To pull old cows out of the ditch

A particularly amusing Dutch proverb is “Oude koeien uit de sloot halen”. This translates to “To pull old cows out of the ditch.” It means to bring up past grievances or issues that were thought to be resolved. This saying highlights the tendency of some individuals to revisit old arguments or problems, disrupting the present peace.

When the cat’s away, the mice will dance on the table

Take, for instance, the Dutch proverb “Als de kat van huis is, dansen de muizen op tafel.” Translated as “When the cat’s away, the mice will dance on the table,” this whimsical saying humorously captures the idea of mischief and freedom in the absence of authority. It reflects a universal truth about human behavior, sprinkled with a touch of Belgian flair.

The monkey comes out of the sleeve

Another particularly interesting Dutch proverb from Belgium is “De aap komt uit de mouw,” which translates to “The monkey comes out of the sleeve.” This saying means that the true nature or intentions of someone are revealed. Its origins are somewhat humorous and tied to old practices where magicians or performers would surprise their audience by pulling a monkey out of their sleeves during a trick.

Belgian proverbs with English translations – Dutch

Typical Belgian Proverbs

Dutch

• “Zachte heelmeesters maken stinkende wonden.” – Dutch
  • Translation: “Gentle healers make stinking wounds.”
  • Meaning: This proverb suggests that sometimes, being too lenient or gentle in addressing a problem can lead to worse outcomes. It emphasizes the importance of taking decisive action, even if it may seem harsh, to prevent further complications or difficulties.

• “Als het kalf verdronken is, dempt men de put.” – Dutch
  • Translation: When the calf has drowned, the well gets filled.
  • Meaning: People take precautions only after it’s too late.

• “Een goed begin is het halve werk.” – Dutch
  • Translation: “A good start is half the work.”
  • Meaning: This proverb emphasizes the significance of starting a task or project on the right foot, as it often sets the tone for the rest of the endeavor. It encourages thorough preparation and attention to detail from the outset to increase the likelihood of success.
    

• “Ge kunt beter alleen zijn dan in slecht gezelschap.” – Dutch
  • Translation: Better to be alone than in bad company.
  • Meaning: Being by yourself is preferable to being around toxic people.

• “Een ezel stoot zich geen twee keer aan dezelfde steen.” – Dutch
  • Translation: “A donkey doesn’t bump into the same stone twice.”
  • Meaning: This proverb underscores the importance of learning from past mistakes to avoid repeating them. For example, if someone fails to heed a warning or make the same mistake twice, they are likened to a stubborn donkey.

• “Het is al koek en ei.” – Dutch
  • Translation: It’s already cake and egg.
  • Meaning: Everything’s just fine now (often after a conflict).

• “De appel valt niet ver van de boom.” – Dutch
  • Translation: The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
  • Meaning: Children often resemble their parents in behavior and characteristics.

• “Al draagt een aap een gouden ring, het is en blijft een lelijk ding.” – Dutch
  • Translation: Even if a monkey wears a golden ring, it remains an ugly thing.
  • Meaning: Fancy clothes or accessories can’t hide poor character or unattractiveness.

Belgian proverbs with English translations – French

French

• “Le rire est le soleil qui chasse l’hiver du visage humain.” – French
  • Translation: “Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face.”
  • Meaning: This proverb highlights the power of laughter to uplift and brighten one’s mood, even in the darkest of times. It symbolizes the warmth and joy that laughter brings, dispelling sadness and melancholy from people’s lives.
    

• “Il faut tourner sept fois sa langue dans sa bouche avant de parler.” – French
  • Translation: You must turn your tongue seven times in your mouth before speaking.
  • Meaning: Think carefully before you speak to avoid saying something you might regret.

• “L’argent ne fait pas le bonheur.” – French
  • Translation: Money does not make happiness.
  • Meaning: Wealth alone cannot bring true happiness.

• “Il ne faut pas vendre la peau de l’ours avant de l’avoir tué.” – French
  • Translation: “Don’t sell the bear’s skin before you’ve killed it.”
  • Meaning: This proverb advises against counting one’s chickens before they hatch, cautioning against premature celebration or assumption of success. It underscores the unpredictability of life and the importance of patience and perseverance until a goal is achieved.
    

Enjoy 50 beautiful French proverbs that will inspire you.

Belgian proverbs with English translations – German

German

• “Wer rastet, der rostet.” – German
  • Translation: “Whoever rests, rusts.”
  • Meaning: This proverb emphasizes the importance of staying active and engaged in life to prevent stagnation or decline. It encourages continuous learning, growth, and productivity to maintain one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
    

• “Nach Regen kommt Sonnenschein.” – German
  • Translation: After rain comes sunshine.
  • Meaning: Difficult times are followed by better ones.

• “Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund.” – German
  • Translation: The morning hour has gold in its mouth.
  • Meaning: Early risers are rewarded with productivity and success.

• “Wenn der Bauer nicht schwimmen kann, ist die Badehose schuld.” – German
  • Translation: If the farmer can’t swim, the swimsuit is to blame.
  • Meaning: Blaming tools instead of admitting your own mistakes.

• “Zwei Dumme, ein Gedanke.” – German
  • Translation: Two fools, one thought.
  • Meaning: Jokingly used when people say the same thing at the same time.

Uncover more German proverbs.

Insights into Belgian Culture

Proverbs are commonly used in daily conversations in Belgium, reflecting the local culture and history. From the Flemish plains to the Walloon hills, these phrases speak volumes about resilience and humor. Passed down through generations, they shape Belgian identity.

Whether enjoying a Trappist beer or savoring Belgian fries, remember the essence of Belgian wisdom. So, let Belgium’s linguistic richness guide your journey with a smile. Cheers to embracing diversity and the joy of discovery!