Meaning
Do not rush things unnaturally.
Cultural Background
Estonians are known for their 'patience' and 'calmness,' which is sometimes mistaken for being slow. This proverb is a point of pride, reflecting a deep connection to the land. Similar proverbs exist across the Baltics, reflecting a shared history of agricultural cycles and long winters where waiting was mandatory. Despite being a very secular country today, many Estonian proverbs like this one have biblical roots that are still respected. In the age of instant gratification, young Estonians use this proverb ironically on social media when waiting for a slow app to load.
Use it for comfort
This is the best phrase to use when you don't know what else to say to someone who is struggling with a long-term goal.
Not for deadlines
Don't use this if you missed a deadline at work. It will sound like you don't care about your responsibilities.
Meaning
Do not rush things unnaturally.
Use it for comfort
This is the best phrase to use when you don't know what else to say to someone who is struggling with a long-term goal.
Not for deadlines
Don't use this if you missed a deadline at work. It will sound like you don't care about your responsibilities.
The 'Oma' factor
Remember to include 'oma'. Without it, the phrase loses its rhythmic 'punch' and sounds like a textbook sentence rather than a proverb.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
Igal asjal on ___ aeg.
The proverb uses 'oma' to mean 'its own'.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'Igal asjal on oma aeg'?
Your friend is sad because they haven't learned to play the piano in one week.
This proverb is used to encourage patience when learning a new skill.
Match the Estonian words to their English meanings in this proverb.
Match the following:
This breaks down the literal components of the phrase.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Ma tahan juba puhkusele minna! B: Kannata veel üks nädal. ______.
The context of waiting for a vacation requires a proverb about patience.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIgal asjal on ___ aeg.
The proverb uses 'oma' to mean 'its own'.
Your friend is sad because they haven't learned to play the piano in one week.
This proverb is used to encourage patience when learning a new skill.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
This breaks down the literal components of the phrase.
A: Ma tahan juba puhkusele minna! B: Kannata veel üks nädal. ______.
The context of waiting for a vacation requires a proverb about patience.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt has religious origins, but today it is used by everyone, regardless of their faith. It is considered a secular piece of wisdom.
Yes, it is very common for parents to use this to teach children patience.
'Aeg' is general time (like 'time heals'), while 'kellaaeg' is the specific time on a clock.
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
You change 'on' to 'oli': 'Igal asjal oli oma aeg'.
Yes, 'Kõik omal ajal' is a very common shorter version.
Not at all. It is a timeless classic that is still used daily in Estonia.
No, it doesn't mean you are busy. It means things shouldn't be rushed.
'Aeg ei oota kedagi' (Time waits for no one) is a common contrasting proverb.
Yes, 'asjal' is the adessive case of 'asi' (thing).
Related Phrases
Aeg parandab kõik haavad
similarTime heals all wounds.
Tasa sõuad, kaugele jõuad
similarRow slowly, and you will go far.
Aeg on raha
contrastTime is money.
Kõik omal ajal
specialized formEverything in its own time.
