Meaning
A good reputation precedes you and makes things easier.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'el honor' was so strong in the 17th century that plays (Comedias de Honor) were written entirely about people losing their 'fama' and having to kill to get it back. In Mexican politics, this is often applied to the 'PRI' or other long-standing parties that rely on their historical 'fama' to win votes in rural areas. Used frequently in the context of football. A player who was a legend in one World Cup might be forgiven for poor performance in the next because of his 'fama'. Often used as a warning to children about their behavior in the neighborhood. 'Si los vecinos piensan que eres vago, así te quedarás.'
The 'Half-Phrase' Trick
In casual conversation, just say 'Cría fama...' and shrug. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker who knows the proverb is common knowledge.
Don't use with your boss
Telling your boss 'Voy a criar fama y echarme a dormir' implies you plan to be lazy. Use it to describe *others*, not your own goals!
Meaning
A good reputation precedes you and makes things easier.
The 'Half-Phrase' Trick
In casual conversation, just say 'Cría fama...' and shrug. It makes you sound much more like a native speaker who knows the proverb is common knowledge.
Don't use with your boss
Telling your boss 'Voy a criar fama y echarme a dormir' implies you plan to be lazy. Use it to describe *others*, not your own goals!
The 'Bad' Side
Remember that in Spain, this is often a sad phrase. It's used when someone is being bullied or excluded because of one old mistake.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct verbs.
_______ fama y _______ a dormir.
The traditional proverb uses 'Cría' (from criar) and 'échate' (from echarse).
Which situation best illustrates the proverb?
Situation: A singer had one hit song 10 years ago. Today, they still sell out concerts even though their new music is not very good.
The singer is coasting on their past reputation (fama).
Choose the best response for the dialogue.
A: '¿Por qué no castigan a Luis? Siempre llega tarde.' B: 'Porque el año pasado salvó a la empresa de la quiebra. _________.'
Luis's past success protects him from current criticism.
What does 'criar' mean in this context?
In the phrase 'Cría fama...', the verb 'criar' most closely means:
Reputation is something you grow or nurture like a child or a plant.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises_______ fama y _______ a dormir.
The traditional proverb uses 'Cría' (from criar) and 'échate' (from echarse).
Situation: A singer had one hit song 10 years ago. Today, they still sell out concerts even though their new music is not very good.
The singer is coasting on their past reputation (fama).
A: '¿Por qué no castigan a Luis? Siempre llega tarde.' B: 'Porque el año pasado salvó a la empresa de la quiebra. _________.'
Luis's past success protects him from current criticism.
In the phrase 'Cría fama...', the verb 'criar' most closely means:
Reputation is something you grow or nurture like a child or a plant.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it is universal across all Spanish-speaking countries, though some regions prefer 'Crea' or 'Cobra' over 'Cría'.
Absolutely. It's very common to use it for someone who worked hard once and now enjoys the benefits.
Not inherently, but it is cynical. It suggests that people aren't being objective, which can be a criticism.
There isn't a direct opposite proverb, but 'Renovarse o morir' (Renew yourself or die) suggests you can never stop working on your image.
'Echarse' means to lie down. It implies the act of getting comfortable and giving up effort, which is more descriptive than just 'sleeping'.
Only if you are being slightly informal or making a point about brand loyalty. In a very formal report, use 'prestigio consolidado'.
No, in this context it means 'reputation' or 'what people say about you' in any small circle.
Yes, it connects the two imperatives. Without it, the rhythm of the proverb is lost.
Yes, 'Crea fama' is a very common modern variation and is perfectly acceptable.
Yes, though they might use it more ironically or in memes about 'resting' after doing one small task.
Related Phrases
Vivir del cuento
similarTo live without working, usually by trickery or past reputation.
Dormirse en los laureles
similarTo stop trying because you have already achieved success.
Tener buena prensa
relatedTo have a good reputation in the media/public eye.
Por un perro que maté, mataperros me llamaron
specialized formOne mistake defines you forever.
