Significado
Taking one's time and being careful is more effective than rushing.
Contexto cultural
This proverb is often taught in schools to discourage 'le bâclage' (sloppy work). It is linked to the national pride in high-quality engineering and luxury goods. In Quebec, the proverb is equally common but might be followed by more informal local expressions about patience, like 'lâche pas la patate'. The Swiss-French culture, often stereotyped as being slower and more meticulous than Parisian culture, embraces this proverb as a core value of precision. In Francophone Africa, this proverb blends with local wisdom about the 'patience of the baobab'. It is used to respect the natural rhythm of time.
Use it to soften criticism
If you need to tell someone they are being sloppy, using this proverb makes the feedback feel like 'wise advice' rather than a personal attack.
Don't say 'lentement'
While 'lentement' is a synonym, using it in the proverb makes you sound like a non-native speaker. Stick to 'doucement'.
Significado
Taking one's time and being careful is more effective than rushing.
Use it to soften criticism
If you need to tell someone they are being sloppy, using this proverb makes the feedback feel like 'wise advice' rather than a personal attack.
Don't say 'lentement'
While 'lentement' is a synonym, using it in the proverb makes you sound like a non-native speaker. Stick to 'doucement'.
Ponte a prueba
Complete the proverb with the correct adverbs.
Qui va ________ va ________.
The traditional form uses 'doucement' and 'sûrement'.
In which situation is this proverb MOST appropriate?
A friend is trying to learn 500 new words in one day and is crying.
The proverb encourages a more manageable, steady pace for learning.
Choose the best response for the Manager.
Employé : 'Je peux finir ce rapport en 10 minutes si je ne vérifie pas les chiffres.' Manager : 'Non, prends ton temps. ________.'
The manager wants the employee to prioritize accuracy over speed.
🎉 Puntuación: /3
Ayudas visuales
Banco de ejercicios
3 ejerciciosQui va ________ va ________.
The traditional form uses 'doucement' and 'sûrement'.
A friend is trying to learn 500 new words in one day and is crying.
The proverb encourages a more manageable, steady pace for learning.
Employé : 'Je peux finir ce rapport en 10 minutes si je ne vérifie pas les chiffres.' Manager : 'Non, prends ton temps. ________.'
The manager wants the employee to prioritize accuracy over speed.
🎉 Puntuación: /3
Preguntas frecuentes
2 preguntasYes, though often ironically or when giving advice to friends about complex life situations like dating or career moves.
Yes, it shows you value quality and attention to detail, which are highly prized traits in French corporate culture.
Frases relacionadas
Petit à petit, l'oiseau fait son nid
similarLittle by little, the bird builds its nest.
Rien ne sert de courir ; il faut partir à point
builds onRunning is useless; you must start on time.
Hâte-toi lentement
synonymHasten slowly.
Précipitation n'est pas vitesse
similarHaste is not speed.
