Significado
You must work for rewards.
Contexto cultural
The 'koláč' is central to Czech hospitality. In villages, neighbors still exchange them during 'posvícení' (church consecration anniversaries). Slovaks use the exact same proverb ('Bez práce nie sú koláče'). It reflects the shared history and agricultural roots of both nations. The emphasis on 'pastries' as a reward is common in the former Austro-Hungarian empire, where baking was a highly developed art form. Even in high-tech startups in Prague, this proverb is used to ground employees in the reality of hard work over 'hype.'
Use it for encouragement
If a friend is tired of studying Czech, say this to them. It shows you know the culture and you're being supportive.
Don't change the pastry
Even if you prefer 'koblihy' (donuts), the proverb only works with 'koláče'.
Significado
You must work for rewards.
Use it for encouragement
If a friend is tired of studying Czech, say this to them. It shows you know the culture and you're being supportive.
Don't change the pastry
Even if you prefer 'koblihy' (donuts), the proverb only works with 'koláče'.
The 'Koláč' context
Remember that a 'koláč' is a round, flat pastry. If you call a loaf of bread a 'koláč', people will be confused!
Ponte a prueba
Fill in the missing word in the proverb.
Bez práce nejsou _______.
The standard form of the proverb uses 'koláče' (pastries).
Which verb form is correct in this proverb?
Bez práce _______ koláče.
We use 'nejsou' because 'koláče' is plural.
In which situation would you most likely say 'Bez práce nejsou koláče'?
Match the situation to the phrase.
The phrase is used to motivate someone to work for their future success.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Chci mít svaly jako ty!' B: 'Musíš každý den cvičit. _______.'
The speaker is explaining that muscles require hard work.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Ayudas visuales
Banco de ejercicios
4 ejerciciosBez práce nejsou _______.
The standard form of the proverb uses 'koláče' (pastries).
Bez práce _______ koláče.
We use 'nejsou' because 'koláče' is plural.
Match the situation to the phrase.
The phrase is used to motivate someone to work for their future success.
A: 'Chci mít svaly jako ty!' B: 'Musíš každý den cvičit. _______.'
The speaker is explaining that muscles require hard work.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Preguntas frecuentes
4 preguntasYes, though often with a bit of irony or in a professional context. It's so deeply ingrained that everyone understands it.
It's a bit informal for a first contact, but in a motivational internal email to a team, it's perfect.
Because 'koláče' is plural. In Czech, the verb must agree with the number of the subject.
It's a traditional Czech sourdough pastry with various sweet toppings. It comes from the word 'kolo' (wheel).
Frases relacionadas
Pečení holubi nelétají do huby
similarRoasted pigeons don't fly into your mouth.
Kdo nepracuje, ať nejí
similarHe who does not work, let him not eat.
Zlaté české ručičky
builds onGolden Czech hands.
Ležet ladem
contrastTo lie fallow / To do nothing.
