Mexico is a land of vibrant contrasts, where ancient civilizations blend seamlessly with colonial heritage to create a culture that is as colorful as it is profound. The wisdom of Mexico is not found merely in dusty libraries or academic texts, but in the bustling markets, the spirited family gatherings, and the quiet moments of reflection under the vast Latin American sky. Mexican proverbs, known locally as dichos or refranes, are the lifeblood of this oral tradition. They represent a unique linguistic fusion, marrying the stoic philosophy of the Aztecs and Mayans with the picaresque wit of the Spanish Golden Age.
To understand the Mexican worldview is to understand its sayings. These proverbs are characterized by a distinct mixture of fatalism, resilience, humor, and an unshakeable connection to the land and food. In Mexican culture, wisdom is often served with a side of irony; tragedy is met with laughter, and hardship is faced with a shrug and a clever metaphor. The dicho is a teaching tool used by grandmothers to scold unruly children, by workers to pass the time, and by friends to console one another in times of heartbreak. They act as social regulators, preserving values of humility, caution, and family loyalty.
Furthermore, the imagery within these proverbs offers a window into the soul of the nation. You will find frequent references to roosters, bulls, and donkeys, alongside culinary staples like tortillas, mole, and tequila. This reliance on everyday objects and nature grounds the wisdom in reality, making it accessible to everyone from the campesino in the field to the businessman in Mexico City. It is a democratic wisdom, forged in the fires of revolution and the warmth of the kitchen hearth.
In this comprehensive collection, we explore the depth of the Mexican spirit through its most enduring sayings. These aphorisms traverse the complexities of human existence, offering guidance that is as relevant today across the globe as it was centuries ago in the highlands of Mesoamerica.
POPULAR PROVERBS
Life, Destiny, and Resilience
"He who is born to be a tamale, the leaves will fall from the sky to wrap him."
This proverb speaks to the concept of destiny and the inevitability of one's path in life. It suggests that if you are meant for a certain purpose, the universe will conspire to provide the necessary tools or circumstances to fulfill that fate. It reflects a fatalistic yet comforting view that one’s essential nature cannot be escaped.
"To bad times, a good face."
Resilience is a cornerstone of Mexican character, and this saying encapsulates the refusal to be defeated by hardship. It advises maintaining a positive attitude and a smile even when circumstances are dire. By projecting strength and optimism, one can endure and eventually overcome the storms of life.
"The shrimp that falls asleep is carried away by the current."
This is perhaps one of the most famous warnings against complacency and laziness. It serves as a sharp reminder that the world does not wait for those who hesitate or lack vigilance. In a fast-moving life, staying alert and active is necessary to avoid being swept away by the forces of change or competition.
"There is no evil that lasts a hundred years, nor a body that can endure it."
Used to provide comfort during times of immense suffering, this proverb posits that all things, including pain, are temporary. It offers a grim but practical hope: eventually, the problem will end, or death will bring release. It encourages patience and endurance by highlighting the impermanence of earthly troubles.
"It is better to say 'here he ran' than 'here he died'."
Pragmatism often overrides heroism in Mexican folklore, and this saying justifies cowardice when it preserves life. It suggests that retreating from a dangerous situation is a sign of intelligence rather than weakness. Survival is the ultimate goal, and sometimes fleeing is the smartest strategic move.
"He who looks for it, finds it."
This saying cuts two ways; it can be a promise of reward for the diligent seeker, or a warning to those who meddle in dangerous affairs. In the context of conflict, it warns that if you provoke others or dig for secrets, you will likely discover unpleasant truths or trouble. It emphasizes the consequences of one's curiosity and actions.
"The sun comes out for everyone."
A beautiful expression of egalitarianism and hope, this proverb reminds us that opportunities and grace are available to all, regardless of status. It suggests that nature and the divine do not discriminate, offering warmth and light to the rich and poor alike. It encourages a sense of shared humanity and optimism.
"Even the best monkey drops the sapote fruit."
This proverb is a humbling reminder that even experts make mistakes. The sapote is a fruit, and the monkey is an expert climber; if he can drop his prize, then surely a human can err in their profession. It is used to forgive failure and remind people that perfection is impossible.
"What doesn't kill you makes you fat."
While the modern world says "makes you stronger," the Mexican version humorously refers to food dropped on the floor or questionable street food. It reflects a carefree attitude toward hygiene and health risks, suggesting that if a challenge doesn't destroy you, you might as well enjoy it and gain sustenance from it.
"Don't look for three feet on a cat knowing it has four."
This advises against overcomplicating situations or looking for problems where none exist. It criticizes those who invent difficulties or excuses to avoid reality. It is a call for simplicity and accepting things as they are without unnecessary scrutiny.
"The dead to the hole, and the living to the bun."
This saying illustrates the Mexican relationship with death: respectful but undeniably focused on the continuity of life. Once the mourning is done, the living must return to eating and enjoying life’s pleasures. It signifies that life must go on, and the appetites of the living cannot be ignored.
"When one door closes, a hundred open."
A classic expression of optimism, this proverb suggests that failure or rejection is merely a redirection toward better opportunities. It encourages people not to despair over a lost chance, as the world is vast and full of other possibilities waiting to be discovered.
"Little by little, one goes far."
Patience and incremental progress are valued virtues in this saying. It reminds the ambitious that great distances are covered by small, consistent steps rather than frantic leaps. It is a mantra for perseverance in long-term goals.
"He who does not speak, God does not hear."
This emphasizes the importance of voicing one's needs and desires. It suggests that passivity leads to neglect; if you want help—divine or human—you must articulate your request. It encourages assertiveness and communication.
"The devil knows more because he is old than because he is the devil."
Experience is valued over inherent talent or title in this profound saying. It suggests that wisdom is the accumulation of years lived and mistakes made. It teaches respect for the elderly, whose knowledge comes from the sheer endurance of time.
"Everything has a solution, except death."
This proverb puts daily problems into perspective by identifying the only true finality. If you are alive, there is a way to fix your situation; therefore, worry is often unnecessary. It promotes a problem-solving mindset grounded in gratitude for life itself.
"Make yourself the sweeping saint."
This is an idiom used when someone pretends to be innocent or ignorant of a situation they are involved in. It criticizes hypocrisy and feigned naivety. It warns against those who try to look pious while hiding their true intentions.
"Just because you get up early, the sun doesn't rise earlier."
This cautions against impatience and the belief that one can force the natural order of things. Some events take time to mature, regardless of how much effort or anxiety one applies. It teaches acceptance of timing that is out of human control.
"The lazy man works double."
A warning against cutting corners, this saying explains that doing a job poorly means you will eventually have to do it again to fix it. It promotes the value of doing things right the first time. It criticizes sloth and praises quality and diligence.
"He who hits first, hits twice."
In conflicts, taking the initiative provides a decisive advantage. This proverb advises against hesitation when a fight is inevitable. It suggests that a preemptive strike can determine the outcome of a struggle, favoring the bold and the quick.
Love, Family, and Human Relations
"Full belly, happy heart."
This is one of the most beloved sayings in Mexico, linking emotional well-being directly to physical sustenance. It highlights the cultural importance of food as a source of joy and comfort. It suggests that basic needs must be met before one can find happiness.
"Tell me who you walk with, and I will tell you who you are."
This proverb emphasizes the influence of one's social circle on character and reputation. It serves as a warning to choose friends wisely, as you will be judged by the company you keep. It reflects the belief that habits and morals are contagious.
"Love from afar is for fools."
Mexican culture places a high value on physical presence and closeness, viewing long-distance relationships with skepticism. The saying implies that love requires proximity to survive and that believing otherwise is naive. It suggests that distance inevitably cools passion (or leads to infidelity).
"The street lamp, darkness in his house."
This criticizes a person who is charming, helpful, and radiant in public but neglectful or abusive at home. It exposes the hypocrisy of those who seek public validation while failing their private duties. It warns against judging character solely by public persona.
"Among individuals, as among nations, respect for the rights of others is peace."
A famous quote by Benito Juárez that has become proverbial, this establishes boundaries as the foundation of harmony. It applies to family feuds as much as geopolitics. It teaches that conflict arises when we intrude on the autonomy of others.
"Water that you must not drink, let it run."
This advises against meddling in affairs that do not concern you or pursuing romantic interests that are unavailable. It suggests detachment and letting go of things that are not meant for you. It is a call to avoid unnecessary drama and complications.
"Faces we see, hearts we do not know."
A warning against superficial judgment, this proverb reminds us that outward appearances can be deceiving. A smiling face may hide a treacherous or sorrowful heart. It encourages looking deeper than the surface to understand the true nature of people.
"Marriage and a shroud comes from heaven."
This old saying suggests that major life events like marriage and death are preordained by destiny. It implies that you cannot force a marriage to happen; it will occur when fate decides. It reflects a traditional view of romance governed by divine providence.
"The dead and the gluttonous friend stink after three days."
Hospitality has its limits, and this proverb humorously points out that guests should not overstay their welcome. Just as a body begins to decompose, a guest who stays too long becomes a burden. It teaches social etiquette regarding visitation.
"A barking dog does not bite."
This refers to people who are loud, aggressive, and threatening but ultimately harmless. It suggests that those who make the most noise often lack the courage to act. It advises staying calm in the face of bluster and intimidation.
"You catch more flies with honey than with gall."
Kindness is a more effective tool for persuasion than anger or bitterness. This proverb advises using charm and diplomacy to get what you want in relationships. It highlights the strategic value of sweetness over hostility.
"When there is hunger, there is no hard bread."
In times of need, one cannot be picky. This applies to relationships and help as much as food; when you are lonely or in trouble, you appreciate whatever support is offered. It teaches gratitude and humility in the face of scarcity.
"He who has a store, let him attend to it; and if not, let him sell it."
While often applied to business, this also applies to relationships and marriage. If you have a partner, you must pay attention to them and care for them; otherwise, you should let them go. It warns that negligence leads to loss.
"The son of a tiger comes out painted."
Similar to "like father, like son," this suggests that children inevitably inherit the traits and talents of their parents. It is often used to praise a child who shows the same grit or skill as their parent. It reinforces the strength of bloodlines.
"There is no worse blind man than the one who does not want to see."
This addresses denial in relationships, particularly regarding infidelity or bad behavior. It points out that ignorance is often a voluntary choice to avoid pain. It criticizes the refusal to accept obvious truths.
"He who excuses himself accuses himself."
If someone offers an explanation or apology when none was asked for, they are likely guilty. This psychological insight suggests that a guilty conscience forces people to over-explain. It is a useful tool for detecting lies.
"With patience and saliva, the elephant conquered the ant."
A humorous (and slightly bawdy) take on the power of persistence and gentleness in seduction or difficult tasks. It suggests that even the most impossible matches or goals can be achieved with enough time and lubrication (smooth talk).
"Better alone than in bad company."
Solitude is preferable to a toxic relationship. This proverb empowers individuals to leave abusive or negative situations, reaffirming that self-reliance is healthier than being dragged down by others. It values peace of mind over social status.
"The clothes do not make the man."
Character is internal, not external. This warns against being impressed by wealth or fashion, as a noble heart can reside in rags, and a corrupt one in silk. It champions inner virtue over material display.
"He who walks with wolves learns to howl."
Adaptation is inevitable; if you surround yourself with a certain group, you will adopt their habits. It is a caution to parents about their children's friends, and a reminder that environment shapes behavior more than we like to admit.
Work, Money, and Ambition
"To give it, which is a pot of mole!"
This is an enthusiastic call to action, meaning "let's get to work" or "let's do this." Mole de olla is a rich, complex dish, implying that the task ahead is substantial but rewarding. It encourages energy and dedication in starting a task.
"He who grasps too much, squeezes little."
This warns against overextending oneself. If you try to manage too many projects or ambitions at once, you will fail to master any of them. It advocates for focus and specialization rather than scattered efforts.
"The master's eye fattens the horse."
A business flourishes only under the direct supervision of the owner. It implies that employees will not care for the business as much as the person who owns it. It is a call for hands-on management and vigilance.
"Cheap things turn out expensive."
Trying to save money by buying low-quality goods or services often leads to higher costs in repairs or replacements later. It advises investing in quality rather than seeking the lowest price. It promotes long-term value over short-term savings.
"Money calls money."
Wealth generates more wealth. This acknowledges the reality of capitalism where having capital makes it easier to invest and grow. It also implies that opportunities flock to those who already appear successful.
"No one knows who they work for."
This cynical proverb suggests that we often toil for the benefit of others without realizing it—perhaps heirs, taxes, or a replacement at work. It reflects a sense of resignation about the fruits of one's labor being enjoyed by someone else.
"Create fame and go to sleep."
Once you have established a reputation—good or bad—people will assume you are acting according to it, even if you do nothing. It suggests that building a brand is the hard work; maintaining it is easier because perception persists.
"The lion believes that everyone is of his condition."
A corrupt person suspects everyone else is corrupt; a liar assumes everyone lies. This proverb warns that people project their own flaws onto others in business dealings. It advises caution when dealing with suspicious people.
"When the river sounds, it is carrying water."
If there are rumors (noise), there is likely some truth (water) behind them. In professional settings, this warns not to ignore gossip entirely, as it usually stems from a real issue. It validates intuition and hearsay as indicators of reality.
"Neither so much that it burns the saint, nor so little that it doesn't illuminate him."
This advocates for the "golden mean" or moderation. In negotiation or work, one should not be too aggressive nor too passive. It suggests that balance is the key to success and maintaining good relations.
"Paper speaks."
Verbal agreements are worthless; only written contracts matter. This emphasizes the importance of documentation in business. It reflects a bureaucratic culture where evidence is essential for trust.
"He who leaves for the Villa loses his chair."
If you vacate your position or leave an opportunity unattended, someone else will take it. It warns against abandoning one's post or responsibilities, as competition is always waiting to step in.
"A bird in the hand is worth a hundred flying."
Security is better than potential. It is better to have a small, certain gain than to risk it for a massive, unlikely reward. It advises risk aversion and valuing tangible assets.
"To the gift horse, do not look at its tooth."
If you receive a gift or a favor, do not criticize it or look for flaws (checking a horse's teeth reveals its age). It teaches gratitude and advises against being picky when receiving charity or help.
"He who serves two masters looks bad with one."
Loyalty cannot be divided. In employment or politics, trying to please opposing sides guarantees failure. It advises choosing a side and sticking to it to maintain integrity.
"The deaf man does not hear, but he composes well."
Used to describe someone who interprets things to their own advantage or makes wild assumptions based on little information. In work, it warns against those who twist instructions to suit their laziness or agenda.
"Every madman with his theme."
Everyone has their own obsessions or way of doing things. In a workplace, this encourages tolerance for colleagues' eccentricities. It acknowledges that people are driven by different motivations.
"Even among the dogs there are races."
This acknowledges social stratification and hierarchy. It implies that class differences exist everywhere, even in the lowest sectors. It is a cynical reminder that equality is rarely found in reality.
"He who wants blue, let it cost him."
Excellence requires sacrifice. If you want something of high value (represented by the color blue, historically expensive to produce), you must be willing to pay the price in money or effort. It dismisses the idea of getting something for nothing.
"Do good without looking at whom."
Professional ethics should be guided by moral duty, not by who is watching or who receives the benefit. It encourages altruism and integrity as a standard practice, regardless of the recipient's status.
Caution, Trust, and Betrayal
"Flies do not enter a closed mouth."
Silence is golden. If you keep your mouth shut, you avoid saying something stupid, revealing a secret, or getting into trouble. It is the ultimate advice for discretion and self-preservation.
"It is better to be alone than in bad company."
Solitude is safer than surrounding oneself with people who might betray or corrupt you. This proverb values independence over the social pressure to belong to a group that does not serve your best interests.
"Keep your eye on the taco."
Pay attention to what is important. It is a colloquial way of saying "focus" or "watch out." It warns against distraction when something valuable is at stake.
"The clean conscience is the best pillow."
Peace of mind comes from acting ethically. It suggests that the dishonest person cannot sleep well due to guilt. It promotes integrity as the path to personal tranquility.
"He who sows winds, reaps storms."
Actions have consequences, often escalated ones. If you start a small conflict or spread minor discord, you will eventually face a massive backlash. It warns against instigating trouble.
"Not all that glitters is gold."
Appearances are deceptive. A deal or a person may look perfect on the surface but may lack substance or value. It advises skepticism and due diligence before trusting.
"A thief judges by his luggage."
People suspect others of the crimes they themselves commit. A dishonest person will always suspect you are stealing from them. It helps in understanding the psychology of distrustful people.
"Better safe than sorry."
Prevention is better than the cure. It is better to take precautions now than to regret negligence later. It encourages a proactive approach to safety and risk management.
"When you see your neighbor's beard cut, soak yours."
If you see trouble happening to someone in a similar position to you, prepare yourself because you are likely next. It advises learning from the misfortunes of others to avoid the same fate.
"Trust killed the cat."
While curiosity killed the cat in English, in Spanish, it is often confidence or trust. It suggests that being too trusting or complacent leads to downfall. It encourages a healthy level of paranoia.
"Crab that falls asleep, gets carried away by the current."
Similar to the shrimp proverb, this reiterates that in a dangerous environment, vigilance is the only way to survive. If you relax your guard, you will be swept away by enemies or circumstances.
"The lie lasts until the truth arrives."
Deception is temporary. No matter how well constructed a lie is, the truth is inevitable and will eventually surface. It warns that dishonesty is a short-term strategy with a guaranteed expiration date.
"It's like looking for a needle in a haystack."
Used when a task is futile or impossible due to the overwhelming odds. It advises knowing when to quit searching for something that cannot be found.
"He who gets angry, loses."
In an argument or negotiation, the person who loses emotional control first loses the upper hand. It teaches the value of stoicism and keeping a cool head under pressure.
"There is no thief who does not appear."
Eventually, the culprit is always revealed. It suggests that crime cannot be hidden forever. It offers hope to the victim that justice, or at least truth, will eventually come to light.
"Don't count the chickens before they are born."
Do not bank on uncertain outcomes. It warns against planning your life around money or success that has not yet materialized. It grounds expectations in reality.
"He who walks in honey, something sticks to him."
If you handle money or power, it is inevitable that you will take some for yourself (corruption) or be influenced by it. It serves as a cynical observation of human nature in positions of power.
"What is not in your year, does not hurt you."
Do not worry about past events that happened before your time or involvement. It advises letting go of historical grievances that do not personally affect your current life.
"Defense allowed is not offense."
Protecting oneself is not an act of aggression. It justifies self-defense and setting boundaries. It reminds people that they have the right to push back when attacked.
"The habit does not make the monk."
Just because someone dresses or acts like an authority figure does not mean they possess the virtue or skill. It cautions against trusting titles or uniforms without verifying character.
Wit, Humor, and the "Picaresque"
"The lion is not as they paint him."
Things (or people) are rarely as terrifying as they are rumored to be. Fear often exaggerates the danger. It encourages facing fears to realize they are manageable.
"When the owl sings, the Indian dies."
This blends indigenous superstition with fatalism. It refers to the belief that the owl is a harbinger of death. However, it is often used with the tag "It may not be true, but it happens," showing the Mexican tension between skepticism and superstition.
"I haven't even gone, and I'm already back."
Said by someone who is very quick, or sarcastically by someone who knows exactly what is going to happen before it starts. It reflects a sharp, quick-witted mind that anticipates outcomes.
"To stick in one's spoon."
To meddle in a conversation or situation where one was not invited. It is a culinary metaphor for being nosy. It vividly describes the intrusion of an unwanted opinion.
"He threw the house out the window."
Used when someone throws a lavish party or spends an excessive amount of money. It captures the Mexican spirit of celebration, where generosity often exceeds one's means for the sake of a good fiesta.
"You are looking for chichis on a snake."
You are looking for something that is biologically impossible to find. It is a crude but hilarious way of telling someone they are wasting their time looking for something that doesn't exist.
"It fell like a ring to the finger."
It fits perfectly. Used when a situation resolves itself ideally or an opportunity arises at the exact right moment. It expresses satisfaction with a coincidence.
"He thinks he is the last Coca-Cola in the desert."
Used to describe someone with an inflated ego who thinks they are indispensable. It mocks arrogance by using a modern, commercial metaphor for thirst and scarcity.
"Giving cat for hare."
Being ripped off. If you order rabbit stew and get cat meat, you've been deceived. It refers to any situation where you receive something of lower quality than what you paid for.
"To each his own saint."
Everyone has their own devotion or way of life. It is a plea for tolerance regarding personal choices. It acknowledges that what works for one person may not work for another.
"Don't give me the Atole with a finger."
Do not treat me like a baby or try to deceive me with soothing distractions. Atole is a comfort drink; feeding it with a finger is how you calm a child. It demands respect and truth.
"He who is a parrot is green wherever he is."
True talent or character shows itself in any environment. If you are good, you don't need favorable conditions to succeed; your quality will shine through anywhere.
"Old pot makes good broth."
A cheeky reference to the idea that older lovers or experienced people offer better experiences. It values maturity and history over the freshness of youth.
"Like a dog in the butcher shop."
Looking at something you want desperately but cannot have. It describes the feeling of longing and frustration while observing a prize that is just out of reach.
"Go see if the sow laid eggs."
A polite (or not so polite) way of telling someone to go away and stop bothering you. Since pigs don't lay eggs, the person will be gone a long time looking. It is a dismissal disguised as an errand.
"Neither pitch nor catch."
Used to describe someone useless who doesn't help in any capacity (baseball metaphor). It criticizes a person who contributes nothing to the group effort.
"They read him the booklet."
Someone was given a stern lecture or told the rules in no uncertain terms. It implies a scolding where the "riot act" was read to correct behavior.
"To make a storm in a glass of water."
Overreacting to a minor problem. It criticizes those who lack perspective and turn small inconveniences into major dramas.
"Between jokes, the truth appears."
Humor is a vehicle for honesty. People often say what they truly mean when they frame it as a joke. It advises listening closely to banter, as it reveals true feelings.
"Here, only my chicharrones crackle."
"I am the boss here." Chicharrones (pork rinds) make a loud noise when fried or eaten. This is a dominant assertion of authority, stating that only the speaker's voice matters in this domain.
CONCLUSION
The proverbs of Mexico are far more than quaint sayings; they are the survival manual of a people who have weathered conquests, revolutions, and the complexities of modern life with their spirits intact. They teach us that life is to be navigated with a sharp mind, a brave heart, and an ability to laugh at the absurd. From the fields of Jalisco to the urban sprawl of Mexico City, these dichos bind the nation together, providing a shared language of values and expectations.
Whether they are warning us against the dangers of trust, encouraging us to work harder, or simply making us smile at the hubris of the arrogant, these sayings offer a universal wisdom. They remind us that while we cannot control the winds of destiny, we can certainly adjust our sails—and perhaps enjoy a good taco while we wait for the storm to pass.
Which of these Mexican proverbs resonates most with your life experience? Let us know in the comments below!
FURTHER READING
- The Stoic Wisdom of the Aztecs: Philosophy from the Nahuatl World
- Spanish Golden Age Proverbs: The Roots of Hispanic Wit
- Proverbs of the Incas: Ancient Wisdom from the Andes