Meaning
Achieving a goal requires effort, sacrifice, or overcoming difficulties.
Cultural Background
In Spain, this proverb is often used in the context of 'oposiciones' (competitive exams for civil service). These exams can take years of study, and the proverb is a common mantra among 'opositores'. In Mexico, you might hear 'El que algo quiere...' more often. It's frequently used by parents to teach children the value of money and hard work, often related to chores or school grades. Argentines might use this when discussing the 'asado'. Preparing a good asado takes hours of patience and heat, and the proverb fits the dedication required for the perfect meat. In Colombia, it's often used in the context of 'emprendimiento' (entrepreneurship), which is a huge part of the local culture. It's a way to acknowledge the 'berraquera' (bravery/determination) needed to start a business.
Use it for empathy
When a friend is complaining about work, using this phrase shows you understand it's hard but also that you believe in their goal.
Don't over-use it
If you say it every time someone mentions a problem, you might sound dismissive or like a 'know-it-all'.
Meaning
Achieving a goal requires effort, sacrifice, or overcoming difficulties.
Use it for empathy
When a friend is complaining about work, using this phrase shows you understand it's hard but also that you believe in their goal.
Don't over-use it
If you say it every time someone mentions a problem, you might sound dismissive or like a 'know-it-all'.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the missing words.
Quien algo quiere, algo ___ cuesta.
The indirect object pronoun 'le' is required to refer back to the person who wants something.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'Quien algo quiere, algo le cuesta'?
Situation: Maria is tired because she spent all night studying for her bar exam.
The proverb justifies the 'cost' (tiredness) for the 'goal' (passing the exam).
Complete the dialogue naturally.
A: 'Este curso de español es muy intensivo, no tengo tiempo para nada.' B: 'Lo sé, pero quieres el certificado C1, ¿verdad? Pues ya sabes...'
This is the most appropriate proverb to encourage someone facing a difficult but desired challenge.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesQuien algo quiere, algo ___ cuesta.
The indirect object pronoun 'le' is required to refer back to the person who wants something.
Situation: Maria is tired because she spent all night studying for her bar exam.
The proverb justifies the 'cost' (tiredness) for the 'goal' (passing the exam).
A: 'Este curso de español es muy intensivo, no tengo tiempo para nada.' B: 'Lo sé, pero quieres el certificado C1, ¿verdad? Pues ya sabes...'
This is the most appropriate proverb to encourage someone facing a difficult but desired challenge.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it in almost any context, from a casual chat to a business meeting, as long as the tone is appropriate.
You can, but it's no longer the standard proverb. It's better to stick to 'algo' to maintain the traditional rhythm.
The 'le' is an indirect object pronoun that refers back to 'Quien' (the person who wants something).
Yes, it is universally understood across all Spanish-speaking countries, though 'El que algo quiere...' is more common in some regions.
Related Phrases
No hay rosa sin espinas
similarThere is no rose without thorns.
El que quiera peces, que se moje el culo
synonymHe who wants fish must get his butt wet.
A Dios rogando y con el mazo dando
builds onPraying to God but hitting with the mallet.
Lo barato sale caro
contrastCheap things end up being expensive.
