Meaning
Everyone has their own unique way of doing things.
Cultural Background
In Spain, this proverb is often used with a sense of 'resignation' or 'tolerance' toward the stubbornness of others, especially in rural areas. In Mexico, you might hear 'Cada cabeza es un mundo' more often, but 'Cada maestrillo tiene su librillo' is perfectly understood and used in professional contexts. Argentines might use this when discussing football tactics or 'asado' (BBQ) techniques, where everyone claims to have the best secret method. Used frequently in the 'Paisa' region to describe the 'malicia indígena' or the clever, individual ways of solving problems.
Use it to be polite
If someone is doing something 'wrong' but it works, use this phrase to avoid being a 'know-it-all'.
The '-illo' factor
Using '-illo' instead of '-ito' makes you sound like you know traditional Spanish proverbs very well.
Meaning
Everyone has their own unique way of doing things.
Use it to be polite
If someone is doing something 'wrong' but it works, use this phrase to avoid being a 'know-it-all'.
The '-illo' factor
Using '-illo' instead of '-ito' makes you sound like you know traditional Spanish proverbs very well.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
Cada ________ tiene su ________.
The standard proverb uses the diminutives 'maestrillo' and 'librillo'.
In which situation is it appropriate to use this phrase?
Your friend uses a strange but effective way to tie their shoes.
The phrase is used for any personal method, including tying shoes.
Which of these is a synonym for 'Cada maestrillo tiene su librillo'?
Choose the closest meaning.
'Cada loco con su tema' also refers to individual habits and preferences.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Por qué guardas los libros por colores? B: Me gusta así. Ya sabes que...
The phrase perfectly explains a personal, idiosyncratic way of organizing things.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Where to use 'Cada maestrillo...'
Work
- • Coding
- • Filing
- • Management
Home
- • Cooking
- • Cleaning
- • Gardening
Practice Bank
4 exercisesCada ________ tiene su ________.
The standard proverb uses the diminutives 'maestrillo' and 'librillo'.
Your friend uses a strange but effective way to tie their shoes.
The phrase is used for any personal method, including tying shoes.
Choose the closest meaning.
'Cada loco con su tema' also refers to individual habits and preferences.
A: ¿Por qué guardas los libros por colores? B: Me gusta así. Ya sabes que...
The phrase perfectly explains a personal, idiosyncratic way of organizing things.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYou can, but it's rare. Proverbs are usually fixed in the masculine form. 'Cada maestrillo tiene su librillo' is the standard version regardless of gender.
No, it's actually quite polite. it's a way of showing respect for someone else's way of doing things.
Yes, absolutely. It is very common in daily conversation, especially when discussing hobbies, work, or cooking.
Related Phrases
Cada loco con su tema
synonymEvery crazy person with their topic.
Sobre gustos no hay nada escrito
similarThere's no accounting for taste.
Cada cual a su manera
similarEach in their own way.
