Significado
You must work to earn a living.
Contexto cultural
The proverb reflects the 'Darbštumas' (industriousness) cult. In Lithuanian folklore, the hero is often the one who works the hardest, not the strongest or the smartest. Similar proverbs exist in Latvia and Estonia, showing a shared regional history of difficult farming conditions where labor was essential for survival. There is a slight generational gap in how this is perceived. Older generations see it as a fundamental truth, while younger generations might use it more ironically. This proverb is often one of the few phrases Lithuanian descendants in the US or Brazil remember, as it was a core part of their grandparents' upbringing.
Use the short version with adults
If you want to sound more mature and less like a parent, just say 'Kas nedirba, tas nevalgo'.
The power of 'mielas'
The word 'mielas' (dear) is key here. It turns a harsh rule into a loving lesson.
Significado
You must work to earn a living.
Use the short version with adults
If you want to sound more mature and less like a parent, just say 'Kas nedirba, tas nevalgo'.
The power of 'mielas'
The word 'mielas' (dear) is key here. It turns a harsh rule into a loving lesson.
Ponte a prueba
Fill in the missing word in the proverb.
Kas nedirba, mielas ______, tam ir valgyt neduoda.
The vocative case 'vaike' is used when addressing someone directly.
What is the figurative meaning of this proverb?
Kas nedirba, mielas vaike, tam ir valgyt neduoda.
The proverb uses food as a metaphor for any reward or benefit.
Match the Lithuanian word with its English literal meaning in the proverb.
Match the following:
These are the core components of the proverb's structure.
Complete the dialogue with the correct form of the proverb.
Mama: 'Jonukai, padėk man sode.' Jonukas: 'Nenoriu...' Mama: '_________________'
This is the most natural context for using this proverb.
In which situation is this proverb MOST appropriate?
Select the best situation:
The proverb is primarily didactic and used to encourage effort.
🎉 Puntuación: /5
Ayudas visuales
Banco de ejercicios
5 ejerciciosKas nedirba, mielas ______, tam ir valgyt neduoda.
The vocative case 'vaike' is used when addressing someone directly.
Kas nedirba, mielas vaike, tam ir valgyt neduoda.
The proverb uses food as a metaphor for any reward or benefit.
Empareja cada elemento de la izquierda con su par de la derecha:
These are the core components of the proverb's structure.
Mama: 'Jonukai, padėk man sode.' Jonukas: 'Nenoriu...' Mama: '_________________'
This is the most natural context for using this proverb.
Select the best situation:
The proverb is primarily didactic and used to encourage effort.
🎉 Puntuación: /5
Preguntas frecuentes
5 preguntasYes, very much so! It's a staple of Lithuanian parenting and is frequently referenced in media when discussing the economy.
Yes, but usually in a joking way, like when you're cooking together and someone isn't helping.
It is the dative form of 'tas' (that one). It means 'to that person'.
'Valgyt' is a shortened infinitive. It's very common in spoken Lithuanian and folk sayings to make them more rhythmic.
It can be if used toward a stranger or someone in a difficult situation. Use it only in educational or familiar contexts.
Frases relacionadas
Darbas meistrą giria
similarThe work praises the master.
Ką pasėsi, tą ir pjausi
similarWhat you sow, that you shall reap.
Mokslo šaknys gorkščios, o vaisiai saldūs
builds onThe roots of learning are bitter, but the fruits are sweet.
Tinginys visada randa priežastį
contrastA lazy person always finds an excuse.
