Signification
Asking questions helps avoid mistakes.
Contexte culturel
Poles generally appreciate direct questions when someone is lost. Using this proverb makes you seem humble and culturally aware. In Polish universities, this phrase is the 'green light' for students to interrupt a lecture if they are confused. Modern Polish startups use this to encourage a 'fail fast' and 'learn fast' culture, moving away from older, more rigid hierarchies. In small villages, asking for directions is a social event. This proverb often starts a longer conversation about where you are from.
Use it as a social lubricant
If you feel awkward asking for help, say this phrase first. It immediately makes the other person feel like an expert and willing to help.
Don't overdo it
If you say it after every single question, it can become annoying. Save it for when you genuinely need to justify your inquiry.
Signification
Asking questions helps avoid mistakes.
Use it as a social lubricant
If you feel awkward asking for help, say this phrase first. It immediately makes the other person feel like an expert and willing to help.
Don't overdo it
If you say it after every single question, it can become annoying. Save it for when you genuinely need to justify your inquiry.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct verb form.
Kto pyta, nie _______.
The proverb uses the 3rd person singular present tense ('on/ona/ono').
In which situation is this proverb MOST appropriate?
You are at a new job and don't know how to log into your computer.
This proverb is used when you need information to avoid making a mistake.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Przepraszam, czy to jest pociąg do Warszawy? B: Tak. A: Dziękuję. Wolę się upewnić, bo _______.
The speaker is justifying why they asked a simple question.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesKto pyta, nie _______.
The proverb uses the 3rd person singular present tense ('on/ona/ono').
You are at a new job and don't know how to log into your computer.
This proverb is used when you need information to avoid making a mistake.
A: Przepraszam, czy to jest pociąg do Warszawy? B: Tak. A: Dziękuję. Wolę się upewnić, bo _______.
The speaker is justifying why they asked a simple question.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
3 questionsYes, though often slightly ironically or in professional settings. It's a timeless classic.
Yes, it's very common in business emails when asking for clarification on a task.
'Zgubić się' is 'to get lost' (a result). 'Błądzić' is 'to wander' (a process). The proverb uses the process.
Expressions liées
Język za przewodnika
similarUsing one's tongue as a guide.
Koniec języka za przewodnika
synonymThe tip of the tongue is your guide.
Nie ma głupich pytań
builds onThere are no stupid questions.
