معنی
It's wise to remain silent to avoid trouble or saying something foolish.
زمینه فرهنگی
In Spain, this proverb is often associated with 'la prudencia castellana' (Castilian prudence). It reflects a historical social code where being reserved was seen as a sign of nobility and wisdom. In Mexico, the proverb is used frequently but often with a touch of humor or irony. It's a common piece of 'abuela' (grandmother) wisdom given to children who are being too blunt. In Argentina, while the proverb is known, people might also use 'No te vendas' (Don't sell yourself out/don't give yourself away), which carries a similar weight of protecting one's position through silence. In Colombia, 'ser prudente' is a highly valued social skill. This proverb is taught early on as a way to navigate complex social hierarchies and avoid 'chismes' (gossip) which are seen as very destructive.
The 'Knowing Look'
Natives often don't finish the sentence. If someone is gossiping, just say 'Bueno... ya sabes, en boca cerrada...' and tap the side of your nose. It's very authentic.
Don't be a 'Mudo'
While the proverb advises silence, don't use it as an excuse to never participate in class. Your teacher wants to hear your mistakes so they can help you!
معنی
It's wise to remain silent to avoid trouble or saying something foolish.
The 'Knowing Look'
Natives often don't finish the sentence. If someone is gossiping, just say 'Bueno... ya sabes, en boca cerrada...' and tap the side of your nose. It's very authentic.
Don't be a 'Mudo'
While the proverb advises silence, don't use it as an excuse to never participate in class. Your teacher wants to hear your mistakes so they can help you!
Regional Pronunciation
In Spain, 'cerrada' uses the 'th' sound (distinción), but in Latin America, it's an 's' sound (seseo). Both are 100% correct.
خودت رو بسنج
Complete the proverb with the missing words.
En boca ________ no entran ________.
The standard form is 'cerrada' (closed) and 'moscas' (flies).
In which situation would you use this proverb?
Your friend is about to tell a secret about a coworker in the office kitchen.
The proverb is used to advise discretion and avoid the negative consequences of gossip.
Choose the best response for the dialogue.
Juan: '¿Debería decirle a mi jefe que no me gusta su corbata?' Tú: '________'
Telling a boss their tie is ugly is unnecessary and risky; silence is the better option here.
Which of these is a common variation of the proverb?
Select the synonym proverb.
'Por la boca muere el pez' also warns about the dangers of talking too much.
🎉 امتیاز: /4
ابزارهای بصری یادگیری
بانک تمرین
4 تمرینهاEn boca ________ no entran ________.
The standard form is 'cerrada' (closed) and 'moscas' (flies).
Your friend is about to tell a secret about a coworker in the office kitchen.
The proverb is used to advise discretion and avoid the negative consequences of gossip.
Juan: '¿Debería decirle a mi jefe que no me gusta su corbata?' Tú: '________'
Telling a boss their tie is ugly is unnecessary and risky; silence is the better option here.
Select the synonym proverb.
'Por la boca muere el pez' also warns about the dangers of talking too much.
🎉 امتیاز: /4
سوالات متداول
10 سوالNot inherently, but it depends on the tone. If you say it to yourself or as friendly advice, it's wise. If you snap it at someone to make them shut up, it can be aggressive.
It's better to use it *about* a situation rather than *to* your boss. For example: 'Prefiero ser discreto, ya sabe que en boca cerrada no entran moscas.'
They are very similar. 'Moscas' is about avoiding annoyance/trouble entering your life. 'Pez' is about your own words being the 'hook' that catches/destroys you.
Both are used! 'Entran moscas' (plural) is more common in Spain, while 'entra mosca' (singular) is frequently heard in parts of Latin America.
Literally, yes. Figuratively, the 'flies' are problems, rumors, or embarrassing situations.
Rarely. It's an oral tradition. In a formal essay, you would use 'la importancia de la prudencia verbal.'
No, that would sound very strange. The proverb is fixed with 'moscas'.
Because 'boca' is a feminine noun, so the adjective must be feminine to match.
Yes, people often just say 'En boca cerrada...' and stop there.
Yes, it is one of the most universal proverbs in the Spanish language.
عبارات مرتبط
Por la boca muere el pez
synonymThe fish dies by its mouth.
Calladita te ves más bonita
similarYou look prettier when you're quiet.
Hablar por los codos
contrastTo talk through one's elbows (to talk excessively).
Punto en boca
specialized formStitch in the mouth.
