Meaning
Look after yourself first in a crisis.
Cultural Background
The proverb reflects the historical reality of Bengal as a delta region where sudden floods and storms were common, forcing quick individual action. In cities like Dhaka, this is frequently used to describe the 'survival of the fittest' mentality in traffic and public transport. The phrase is equally popular in Kolkata, often used in a self-deprecating way to describe the lack of civic sense during a rush. Modern professionals use it to describe the cutthroat nature of competitive industries where colleagues might not support each other.
Use it for humor
Use it when you are the first one to grab a slice of pizza to make your friends laugh.
Don't be too serious
If you say it too seriously during a real tragedy, people might think you are cold-hearted.
Meaning
Look after yourself first in a crisis.
Use it for humor
Use it when you are the first one to grab a slice of pizza to make your friends laugh.
Don't be too serious
If you say it too seriously during a real tragedy, people might think you are cold-hearted.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word in the proverb.
চাচা আপন ____ বাঁচা।
'Pran' is the traditional word used in this proverb.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'চাচা আপন প্রাণ বাঁচা'?
A situation where...
The proverb is about self-preservation in a crisis.
Complete the dialogue using the proverb.
রহিম: সবাই কেন পালাচ্ছে? করিম: আগুন লেগেছে! এখন তো ____ অবস্থা!
The context of fire (আগুন) makes this the most appropriate proverb.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
When to say it
Crisis
- • Fire
- • Flood
- • Earthquake
Daily Life
- • Bus rush
- • Sale
- • Traffic
Practice Bank
3 exercisesচাচা আপন ____ বাঁচা।
'Pran' is the traditional word used in this proverb.
A situation where...
The proverb is about self-preservation in a crisis.
রহিম: সবাই কেন পালাচ্ছে? করিম: আগুন লেগেছে! এখন তো ____ অবস্থা!
The context of fire (আগুন) makes this the most appropriate proverb.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNot necessarily. It's an observation of human nature, not always a moral recommendation.
Only if you have a very friendly, informal relationship. Otherwise, it's too casual.
Related Phrases
আপন বাঁচলে বাপের নাম
similarIf you survive, your identity survives.
নিজের নাক কেটে পরের যাত্রা ভঙ্গ
contrastHurting oneself to hurt others.
দশ মিলে করি কাজ
contrastTen people working together.
আগে ঘর, তবে তো পর
similarFamily first, then others.
