뜻
In a hierarchy, the subordinate does not give orders to the superior.
문화적 배경
In Spain, this phrase is often used with a touch of 'retranca' (irony). It acknowledges the hierarchy but sometimes implies that the boss's decision might be questionable, even if it must be followed. In Mexican business culture, hierarchy is very respected. Using this phrase is a common way to show loyalty to a superior's decision in front of others. Argentines might use this phrase in a more cynical way, reflecting a long history of dealing with rigid bureaucracies or strong-willed leaders. In Colombia, the phrase is frequently heard in family contexts, reinforcing the authority of parents or grandparents over children.
Use it for solidarity
Use this phrase when you want to show a coworker that you agree with them, but you both have to follow the boss's orders anyway.
Don't be the 'Patrón'
If you are the boss, avoid saying this to your employees. It can sound like you are shutting down their ideas in a rude way.
뜻
In a hierarchy, the subordinate does not give orders to the superior.
Use it for solidarity
Use this phrase when you want to show a coworker that you agree with them, but you both have to follow the boss's orders anyway.
Don't be the 'Patrón'
If you are the boss, avoid saying this to your employees. It can sound like you are shutting down their ideas in a rude way.
Regional Variations
In many places, 'capitán' is more common than 'patrón'. Both are 100% correct and interchangeable.
셀프 테스트
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
Donde hay ________, no manda ________.
The canonical form of the proverb uses 'patrón' and 'marinero'.
In which situation is it most appropriate to use this phrase?
Your colleague is arguing with the manager about a new office rule.
The phrase is used to acknowledge that the person in charge makes the decisions.
Choose the best response for Speaker B.
Speaker A: 'No entiendo por qué el director cambió el horario.' Speaker B: '_________________.'
This is the only proverb that fits a context of hierarchy and decisions.
Which variation of the phrase is also very common?
Select the most common alternative form.
The 'capitán' version is the most frequent variation of this proverb.
🎉 점수: /4
시각 학습 자료
연습 문제 은행
4 연습 문제Donde hay ________, no manda ________.
The canonical form of the proverb uses 'patrón' and 'marinero'.
Your colleague is arguing with the manager about a new office rule.
The phrase is used to acknowledge that the person in charge makes the decisions.
Speaker A: 'No entiendo por qué el director cambió el horario.' Speaker B: '_________________.'
This is the only proverb that fits a context of hierarchy and decisions.
Select the most common alternative form.
The 'capitán' version is the most frequent variation of this proverb.
🎉 점수: /4
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Yes, especially in Mexico and for owners of small businesses or farms. In modern offices, 'jefe' is more common, but 'patrón' is used in the proverb.
Yes, it's very common for parents to say this to children, or for siblings to say it to each other when one is following a parent's rule.
It's neutral. You can use it in a business meeting or at a bar with friends.
You still use 'patrón' and 'marinero'. Proverbs are fixed historical formulas and don't usually change for gender.
Not necessarily. It means the boss has the *power* to decide, regardless of who is right.
Sometimes people just say the first half: 'Donde hay patrón...' and leave the rest implied.
It can be if used sarcastically, but generally, it's seen as a pragmatic piece of wisdom.
People will understand you, but it's not the 'correct' proverb. Stick to 'patrón' or 'capitán'.
Because the proverb comes from life on ships where the owner (patrón) had total control.
Yes, it is one of the most universal proverbs in the Spanish language.
관련 표현
El que manda, manda
similarThe one in charge, is in charge.
Donde manda capitán, no manda marinero
synonymWhere the captain commands, the sailor doesn't.
A la orden, jefe
builds onAt your command, boss.
Mucho jefe y poco indio
contrastToo many chiefs and not enough Indians.
