3 Wise Spanish Sayings!

Sayings or “refranes” in Spanish are short and commonly known popular expressions that have been passed through generations and offer timeless wisdom and morals. 

Normally these phrases consist of a catchy rhyme or structure that makes them easy to remember. And as we’re heading into the colder season, there’s a Spanish saying that can be used not just about the weather, but as a positive outlook in life and it’s...

Al mal tiempo, buena cara (Literally: "When bad weather, good face")

This expression refers to keeping a positive attitude despite adversity. It’s not just “putting on a brave face”, but more an attitude of optimism and hope.

The equivalent in English would be “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” So while you may not be able to change the situation, you can definitely change your take on it.

👉Fun fact: The Spanish word “mal” (bad) can also be placed at the beginning of a word to change the meaning into something negative or undesirable. E.g. interpretar (to interpret) >malinterpretar (to misinterpret); educado (educated/polite) > maleducado (rude). 

And the same happens in English! E.g. formation > malformation; functioning > malfunctioning and of course all the words like “malign (maligno), malicious (malicio), malevolent” (malevolente)”, etc. 

👉 Always look for the connection between languages and your vocabulary will dramatically expand! 👈

Next is a “refrán” about reciprocity and connection with someone:

Hoy por ti, mañana por mí (Literally: "Today for you, tomorrow for me")

It is used when you’ve done something for someone and they are really appreciative, almost overwhelmed by your generosity. You then say “Hoy por ti, mañana por mi”, meaning that in the future they can return the favour sometime. 

“Refranes” are normally used in informal conversations and being able to use them will definitely help you integrate with the locals. When you incorporate these, you sound more natural and native, and they will understand straight away that you are seriously interested in Spanish culture and not just learning a few basics to get by.

And last, but not least...

A la cama no te irás sin saber una cosa más (Literally: “You won’t go to bed without knowing one more thing”)

Everyday we learn something new, even if it’s small 😃

Qué tengas un buen día,

Cristina