SOUTH AMERICA

The Languages of Ecuador: A Blend of Heritage and Influence

Nestled in the heart of South America, Ecuador is a country of stunning diversity. From the soaring peaks of the Andes and the majestic Cotopaxi volcano to the vibrant Amazon rainforest and the enchanting Galápagos Islands, Ecuador offers a landscape as rich and varied as its culture. The animated city of Quito, with its well-preserved colonial architecture, serves as a vibrant center of history and tradition.

Ecuador’s linguistic landscape is equally diverse. Spanish is the official language, but the country is also home to many indigenous languages, including Quechua and Shuar. These languages have deep roots in Ecuador’s history and culture, passed down through generations. Take a closer look at the history of Ecuador.

In Ecuador, Quechua is commonly called Kichwa. It existed long before the Spanish arrived and spread widely due to the Inca Empire’s influence.

Post-independence (in 1822), Spanish remained the national language and continued to dominate public life. Today, almost all Ecuadorians are fluent in Spanish, and it’s the primary language for media, government, and business. The influence of globalization has only strengthened its presence.

Ecuadorian Proverbs with English translations | Spanish – Quechua

Proverbs, or “refranes,” are an integral part of this oral tradition, reflecting the wisdom and values of Ecuadorian society. They often draw on everyday experiences, nature, and community life, offering unique insights into the cultural contour of this fascinating country.

A Humorous Insight: The Tale of the “Borrowed Donkey”

One particularly amusing Ecuadorian proverb is “Al burro prestado, no se le mira el colmillo” (Spanish). Translated, it means “Don’t look at the borrowed donkey’s teeth.” This proverb is akin to the English saying, “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.” The underlying message is clear: when receiving a gift or favor, one should not be critical or picky about it. For instance, if a friend lends you their old car for the weekend, it would be impolite to complain about its condition. This proverb highlights the importance of gratitude and acceptance in Ecuadorian culture.

Ecuadorian Proverbs with English translations | Spanish

Common Ecuadorian Proverbs: Wisdom from Everyday Life

Spanish

• “Al que madruga, Dios le ayuda.” (Spanish)
  • Translation: “God helps those who wake up early.”
  • Meaning: This proverb underscores the value of diligence and hard work. It suggests that those who rise early and seize the day are more likely to receive divine assistance and succeed in their endeavors.

• “Cría cuervos y te sacarán los ojos” (Spanish)
  • Translation: “Raise crows and they will peck your eyes out.”
  • Meaning: Helping ungrateful people can backfire on you.

• “El hábito no hace al monje.” (Spanish)
  • Translation: “The habit does not make the monk.”
  • Meaning: Appearances can be deceiving. One’s true character is not determined by outward appearances.

• “En casa de herrero, cuchillo de palo.” (Spanish)
  • Translation: “In the blacksmith’s house, wooden knife.”
  • Meaning: Professionals often neglect to use their skills for their benefit.

• Más vale prevenir que lamentar.” (Spanish)
  • Translation: “Better safe than sorry.”
  • Meaning: It is wiser to avoid problems before they happen.

• “Más vale tarde que nunca.” (Spanish)
  • Translation: “Better late than never.”
  • Meaning: This proverb emphasizes the importance of taking action, even if it’s delayed, rather than not taking action at all. It acknowledges that while punctuality is valuable, it’s never too late to correct mistakes or pursue opportunities.

• “No hay mal que por bien no venga.” (Spanish)
  • Translation: “There is no evil from which good does not come.”
  • Meaning: This proverb conveys optimism and resilience, suggesting that even in difficult times, there is potential for positive outcomes or personal growth. It encourages individuals to find silver linings in adversity and maintain hope for the future.

Dig into more proverbs from Ecuador.

Ecuadorian Proverbs with English translations | Quechua

Quechua (locally called Kichwa) continues to be spoken in Ecuador thanks to its deep historical roots and cultural resilience. Before the arrival of the Spanish, the region was under the control of the Inca Empire, which extended Quechua as a unifying language across vast areas, including Ecuador’s highlands. Even before that, local groups had their own versions of Quechua or related languages.

Despite colonization and centuries of language suppression, many Indigenous communities – especially in the Andes – maintained their language, traditions, and identity. Rural isolation helped preserve Kichwa in regions like Imbabura, Chimborazo, Tungurahua, and Cotopaxi, where daily life often still unfolds in the Indigenous language.

In modern times, the Indigenous rights movement in Ecuador (especially since the 1990s) has strengthened efforts to preserve and promote Kichwa. Community schools, bilingual education programs, and government recognition (such as the 2008 Constitution declaring Kichwa an official language of intercultural relations) have helped bolster its status.

Expand your knowledge on Quechua: The surviving language of the Inca Empire.

Common Ecuadorian Proverbs: Wisdom from Everyday Life

Quechua

Note: The Quechua alphabet in Ecuador (Kichwa Unificado) avoids the letters b, c, d, e, g, v, x, z and relies mostly on k, q, ch, ll, ñ, r, s, sh, t, w, y.

• “Ama llulla, ama shua, ama quella” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Don’t lie, don’t steal, don’t be lazy.
  • Meaning: Core Incan moral code still taught in Kichwa communities.

• “Ama mana kuyaykuchu” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Don’t love without respect.
  • Meaning: Love should always be mutual and dignified.

• “Ama rimaylla, ruranakuyta ruray” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Don’t talk too much, do what needs to be done.
  • Meaning: Actions are more important than words.

• “Chaylla punchapi kawsaylla” (Quechua)
  • Translation: One day is life.
  • Meaning: Every single day matters; live it fully.

• “Chayta mana yachkani” (Quechua)
  • Translation: I don’t know that.
  • Meaning: An honest admission is better than false knowledge.

• “Hampikuna yuyaymanta kani” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Healing begins in the mind.
  • Meaning: Wellness is mental as well as physical.

• “Imata chay rikhuyta munanki?” (Quechua)
  • Translation: What is it that you want to see?
  • Meaning: Know your goals before you act.

• “Kawsayta munanki, allinta ruray” (Quechua)
  • Translation: If you love life, work well.
  • Meaning: Quality work is part of a meaningful life.

• “Mana allin ruraqmi mana sumaq kawsanachu” (Quechua)
  • Translation: One who works poorly cannot live well.
  • Meaning: A lazy or careless worker will struggle in life.

• “Mana kuyayta ruraychu” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Don’t act without love.
  • Meaning: Intentions matter in everything you do.

• “Mana rimaylla, kuyaylla ruray” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Less talking, more loving action.
  • Meaning: Show care through deeds, not just words.

• “Ñawi kanki, rikuykuy” (Quechua)
  • Translation: You have eyes, so look.
  • Meaning: Be observant and aware of the world around you.

• “Pachamamawan sumaq kawsay” (Quechua)
  • Translation: A good life with Mother Earth.
  • Meaning: Living in harmony with nature ensures well-being.

• “Ruraykuy mana chinkaykuy” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Do your task, don’t get lost.
  • Meaning: Focus and discipline lead to success.

• “Sumaq ruraq, sumaq kawsayniyoq” (Quechua)
  • Translation: A good worker lives well.
  • Meaning: Diligence brings prosperity.

• “Sumaq yuyay kawsaymanta churin” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Good thoughts create life.
  • Meaning: Positive thinking shapes destiny.

• “Tukuy laya runakuna kawsaykun” (Quechua)
  • Translation: All kinds of people live.
  • Meaning: Diversity is natural and valuable.

• “Warmikuna mana chaylla kanki” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Women are not just that.
  • Meaning: A reminder of the depth and strength of women.

• “Yachayta munanki, rurayta munay” (Quechua)
  • Translation: If you want knowledge, love action.
  • Meaning: Learning comes through doing.

• “Yuyaylla kawsayta ruwan” (Quechua)
  • Translation: Thought creates life.
  • Meaning: The mind is the source of everything we build.

Embracing Proverbs in Everyday Life

As we conclude our exploration of Ecuadorian proverbs, it’s essential to remember that these sayings offer more than just words; they provide a deep insight into the values and traditions of Ecuador. From the highlands of the Andes to the coastal regions, each proverb reflects a unique experience and wisdom.

When you think of Ecuador, envision its lively festivals, traditional music, and the warmth of its people. Let these sayings be a reminder of the country’s rich heritage and the universal truths that connect us all.