Meaning
Choose company wisely to avoid negative influences.
Cultural Background
In Spain, this is a very common proverb used in everyday life to justify personal choices. Across Latin America, this proverb is widely understood and used, often in the context of family advice or friendship. It reflects a cultural value of 'dignidad' (dignity), where one's social standing is less important than their personal integrity.
Use it as a justification
It's a perfect way to explain why you are doing something alone without sounding rude.
It's a classic
Every native speaker knows this. Using it will make you sound very natural.
Meaning
Choose company wisely to avoid negative influences.
Use it as a justification
It's a perfect way to explain why you are doing something alone without sounding rude.
It's a classic
Every native speaker knows this. Using it will make you sound very natural.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb.
Más vale solo que mal __________.
The past participle is required here.
When should you use this phrase?
Which situation is appropriate for this proverb?
The proverb is about choosing quality company over bad company.
Match the phrase to its meaning.
Más vale solo que mal acompañado -> ?
It emphasizes the value of good company.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Should I stay with this group?' B: 'No, __________.'
It is the best advice for someone in a bad group.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMás vale solo que mal __________.
The past participle is required here.
Which situation is appropriate for this proverb?
The proverb is about choosing quality company over bad company.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
It emphasizes the value of good company.
A: 'Should I stay with this group?' B: 'No, __________.'
It is the best advice for someone in a bad group.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNot if you use it to explain your own choices. It can be rude if you say it directly to someone to imply they are 'bad company'.
Probably not. It's too informal and focuses on personal social choices.
You can use 'mejor', but 'más vale' is the classic form.
No, it can apply to colleagues, partners, or any group of people.
The proverb is about avoiding *bad* company, not about being completely solitary.
No, it is impersonal.
Related Phrases
Dime con quién andas y te diré quién eres
builds onTell me who you walk with and I'll tell you who you are.
Más vale prevenir que curar
similarBetter to prevent than to cure.
Quien bien te quiere, te hará llorar
contrastHe who loves you well will make you cry.
