Signification
Nothing is perfect; everything has some imperfection.
Contexte culturel
In Portugal, this proverb is often said with a slight sigh, reflecting a national character that values 'pé no chão' (feet on the ground) and a realistic, sometimes pessimistic, outlook. Brazilians use this phrase frequently but might more often opt for 'Não há rosa sem espinhos'. It's used to balance the 'tudo bem' (everything's fine) attitude with a touch of reality. In Angolan Portuguese, proverbs are highly respected as markers of wisdom. This phrase is used to teach patience and acceptance of life's difficulties. In the context of 'Morabeza' (hospitality), this proverb might be used to humbly apologize for a small lack in service or comfort despite a warm welcome.
Use it to soften criticism
If you need to tell someone about a mistake, start with a compliment and end with 'não há bela sem senão' to make it sound less harsh.
Spelling matters
In written Portuguese, 'senão' (noun/conjunction) and 'se não' (conditional) are the most common spelling errors. Always check if you mean 'otherwise/flaw' (one word).
Signification
Nothing is perfect; everything has some imperfection.
Use it to soften criticism
If you need to tell someone about a mistake, start with a compliment and end with 'não há bela sem senão' to make it sound less harsh.
Spelling matters
In written Portuguese, 'senão' (noun/conjunction) and 'se não' (conditional) are the most common spelling errors. Always check if you mean 'otherwise/flaw' (one word).
The Shrug
When saying this in person, a small shrug of the shoulders and a slight tilt of the head add the perfect 'Portuguese' touch of resignation.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
Não há ______ sem ______.
The proverb is fixed in the feminine 'bela' and the noun 'senão' is written as one word.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'Não há bela sem senão'?
A) You win the lottery but lose the ticket. B) You buy a beautiful dress but it has no pockets. C) You fail an exam because you didn't study. D) You find a 5 euro note on the street.
Situation B describes something 'bela' (the dress) with a 'senão' (no pockets). Situation A is a tragedy, not a 'senão'.
Choose the best response for the dialogue.
João: 'Adoro o meu novo apartamento, mas o vizinho de cima faz muito barulho.' Maria: '_________________.'
Maria is acknowledging that João's great apartment has one small flaw.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesNão há ______ sem ______.
The proverb is fixed in the feminine 'bela' and the noun 'senão' is written as one word.
A) You win the lottery but lose the ticket. B) You buy a beautiful dress but it has no pockets. C) You fail an exam because you didn't study. D) You find a 5 euro note on the street.
Situation B describes something 'bela' (the dress) with a 'senão' (no pockets). Situation A is a tragedy, not a 'senão'.
João: 'Adoro o meu novo apartamento, mas o vizinho de cima faz muito barulho.' Maria: '_________________.'
Maria is acknowledging that João's great apartment has one small flaw.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, it's very common to use it when talking about someone's personality flaws while still liking them.
It is always 'bela'. The proverb is a fixed feminine form.
It is traditional, but not 'old-fashioned' in a way that people don't use it. It's a classic that remains very relevant.
'Defeito' is a general word for a defect. 'Senão' is more like a 'catch' or a 'but' in an otherwise good thing.
Yes, the gender of the speaker doesn't change the proverb. It's always 'bela'.
You can say: 'O único senão da viagem foi a chuva.' (The only catch of the trip was the rain.)
Yes, though 'Não há rosa sem espinhos' is slightly more frequent in casual Brazilian speech.
It's neutral to formal. You can use it with friends or in a business meeting.
Originally yes, but now it refers to any 'beautiful thing' or 'good situation'.
Absolutely! 'A comida está ótima, o senão é que está um pouco salgada.'
Expressions liées
Não há rosa sem espinhos
synonymEvery rose has its thorns.
Nem tudo o que luz é ouro
similarNot everything that glitters is gold.
O senão da questão
specialized formThe catch of the matter.
Perfeição não é deste mundo
similarPerfection is not of this world.
