المعنى
You must work to survive.
خلفية ثقافية
The proverb is a cornerstone of the 'Slovenian work ethic'. Being seen as 'priden' (hardworking) is a vital part of social standing, especially in smaller towns and villages. In farming communities, this proverb is still taken quite literally. The seasons dictate the work, and missing a window of labor can mean a lack of food later. Teachers often use this or similar phrases to instill a sense of responsibility in students. The Slovenian school system is known for being quite rigorous, reflecting this value. During the Yugoslav era, the value of the 'worker' was highly celebrated in propaganda, and this proverb fit perfectly into the state's ideology of labor.
The Rhyme is Key
If you forget the exact words, just remember it rhymes! Dela/Jela. This will help you recall the genitive endings.
Don't be too literal
While it mentions food, it applies to everything. Don't think it's only for the kitchen!
المعنى
You must work to survive.
The Rhyme is Key
If you forget the exact words, just remember it rhymes! Dela/Jela. This will help you recall the genitive endings.
Don't be too literal
While it mentions food, it applies to everything. Don't think it's only for the kitchen!
The 'Priden' Factor
Slovenians value 'pridnost' (diligence) above almost everything else. Using this phrase shows you understand this core value.
اختبر نفسك
Fill in the missing words to complete the proverb.
Brez ______ ni ______.
The proverb requires the genitive case: 'dela' and 'jela'.
In which situation would it be MOST appropriate to say 'Brez dela ni jela'?
Choose the best scenario:
The proverb is used to motivate someone to work or study before they can enjoy rewards.
What does the word 'jelo' refer to in this proverb?
Select the correct meaning:
'Jelo' is an archaic word for 'jed' (food/meal).
Complete the dialogue with the correct phrase.
A: 'Tako sem lačen, ampak nisem nič skuhal.' B: 'Veš, kaj pravijo: ________.'
The proverb fits perfectly as a response to someone who is hungry but didn't put in the effort to cook.
🎉 النتيجة: /4
وسائل تعلم بصرية
بنك التمارين
4 تمارينBrez ______ ni ______.
The proverb requires the genitive case: 'dela' and 'jela'.
Choose the best scenario:
The proverb is used to motivate someone to work or study before they can enjoy rewards.
Select the correct meaning:
'Jelo' is an archaic word for 'jed' (food/meal).
A: 'Tako sem lačen, ampak nisem nič skuhal.' B: 'Veš, kaj pravijo: ________.'
The proverb fits perfectly as a response to someone who is hungry but didn't put in the effort to cook.
🎉 النتيجة: /4
الأسئلة الشائعة
10 أسئلةNo, in modern Slovenian we use 'jed' or 'hrana'. 'Jelo' is only used in this proverb and some dialects.
It's better to use it with colleagues or subordinates. Saying it to a boss might sound like you're criticizing them.
Because the preposition 'brez' always requires the genitive case.
Yes, versions of it exist in Serbian, Croatian, and Russian, often with very similar wording.
It can be if used toward someone who is struggling. Use it as motivation, not as a judgment on poverty.
'Brez dela ni jela' is the closest cultural equivalent, though 'Brez muje se še čevelj ne obuje' is also common.
It is heavily influenced by the biblical idea that those who don't work shouldn't eat, which was common in Christian Europe.
Absolutely! It is very common to use it to motivate students.
There isn't a direct 'lazy' proverb, but 'Pečeni golobi ne letijo v usta' (Roasted pigeons don't fly into your mouth) is a great related one.
Younger people might find it a bit 'old-fashioned', but everyone knows it and understands it.
عبارات ذات صلة
Kdor ne dela, naj ne je
synonymHe who doesn't work, shouldn't eat.
Brez muje se še čevelj ne obuje
similarWithout effort, you can't even put on a shoe.
Po delu se pozna mojster
builds onThe master is known by his work.
Leni klobas ne je
similarA lazy person doesn't eat sausages.
