Não há mal que dure para sempre, nem bem que nunca se acabe.
No evil lasts forever, no good never ends.
Signification
Bad times will pass, and good times are not eternal; everything changes.
Contexte culturel
In Brazil, this proverb is often used in 'Samba' lyrics to talk about overcoming poverty or heartbreak. It reflects the 'esperança' (hope) that is central to the Brazilian spirit. In Portugal, it is linked to the concept of 'Fado'—the idea that fate is inevitable, but one must endure it with dignity. It is a more stoic interpretation. In African Lusophone countries, this proverb often relates to social and political changes, emphasizing that no regime or hardship is eternal.
Use the first half
If you want to sound natural and empathetic, just say the first half. The second half can sometimes sound a bit cynical if not used carefully.
Subjunctive Alert
Remember to use 'dure' and 'acabe'. Using 'dura' or 'acaba' is the most common 'gringo' mistake with this phrase.
Signification
Bad times will pass, and good times are not eternal; everything changes.
Use the first half
If you want to sound natural and empathetic, just say the first half. The second half can sometimes sound a bit cynical if not used carefully.
Subjunctive Alert
Remember to use 'dure' and 'acabe'. Using 'dura' or 'acaba' is the most common 'gringo' mistake with this phrase.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct verb forms.
Não há mal que ____ (durar) para sempre, nem bem que nunca se ____ (acabar).
The subjunctive mood is required here.
In which situation is this proverb MOST appropriate?
Your friend just won the lottery and is spending all their money recklessly.
The second half of the proverb warns that good times (wealth) can end.
What is the main message of this proverb?
O que o provérbio ensina?
The proverb emphasizes that neither 'mal' nor 'bem' are eternal.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Estou muito triste com meu trabalho.' B: 'Não fique assim, ________.'
The first half is used for consolation.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
The Balance of Life
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesNão há mal que ____ (durar) para sempre, nem bem que nunca se ____ (acabar).
The subjunctive mood is required here.
Your friend just won the lottery and is spending all their money recklessly.
The second half of the proverb warns that good times (wealth) can end.
O que o provérbio ensina?
The proverb emphasizes that neither 'mal' nor 'bem' are eternal.
A: 'Estou muito triste com meu trabalho.' B: 'Não fique assim, ________.'
The first half is used for consolation.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
3 questionsNo, it is a secular proverb, though it aligns with many religious teachings about impermanence.
Yes, but only when discussing long-term trends or morale. It might be too informal for a technical report.
'Mal' is the opposite of 'bem' (adverb/noun). 'Mau' is the opposite of 'bom' (adjective). Here we need the noun.
Expressions liées
Tudo passa.
synonymEverything passes.
Depois da tempestade vem a bonança.
similarAfter the storm comes the calm.
Águas passadas não movem moinhos.
contrastPast waters don't move mills.
