Meaning
A single positive event does not indicate a general trend or significant change.
Cultural Background
In Iran, the proverb is closely tied to 'Nowruz' (New Year). People wait for the 'Sāl-e No' (New Year) with great anticipation, and this proverb warns against the 'false hope' of early warm weather. Tajik Persian speakers use this proverb frequently in agricultural contexts, referring to the unpredictable mountain weather where a single bloom doesn't mean the frost is over. In Dari (Afghan Persian), the proverb is used similarly, often in political contexts to describe small changes that haven't yet led to peace. Iranians living abroad often use this proverb to describe their children's progress in learning Persian—one word is a start, but not 'spring' yet!
Use the colloquial version
If you are with friends, say 'nemish-e' instead of 'nemishavad' to sound more like a native.
Don't be too negative
If you use this too much, you might sound like a pessimist. Balance it with praise!
Meaning
A single positive event does not indicate a general trend or significant change.
Use the colloquial version
If you are with friends, say 'nemish-e' instead of 'nemishavad' to sound more like a native.
Don't be too negative
If you use this too much, you might sound like a pessimist. Balance it with praise!
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
با یک گل ______ نمیشود.
The proverb specifically uses 'spring' (bahār).
Which situation best fits this proverb?
علی در اولین روز کاریاش خیلی خوب کار کرد. مدیرش به او چه میگوید؟
The proverb is used to encourage consistent performance after a single success.
Match the Persian part to its English meaning.
Match the following:
Literal translation components.
Complete the dialogue.
سارا: 'من امروز یک ساعت مطالعه کردم، پس حتماً در امتحان قبول میشوم!' مریم: 'آفرین، ولی ...'
Mary is reminding Sarah that one hour of study is not enough for a whole exam.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesبا یک گل ______ نمیشود.
The proverb specifically uses 'spring' (bahār).
علی در اولین روز کاریاش خیلی خوب کار کرد. مدیرش به او چه میگوید؟
The proverb is used to encourage consistent performance after a single success.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Literal translation components.
سارا: 'من امروز یک ساعت مطالعه کردم، پس حتماً در امتحان قبول میشوم!' مریم: 'آفرین، ولی ...'
Mary is reminding Sarah that one hour of study is not enough for a whole exam.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNot necessarily, but it is a reality check. It depends on your tone. If said with a smile, it's helpful advice.
No, it's only for when a 'good' thing (the flower) isn't enough to make a 'good' season (spring).
Related Phrases
یک دست صدا ندارد
similarOne hand makes no sound.
جوجه را آخر پاییز میشمارند
builds onCount the chicks at the end of autumn.
نوروز در راه است
contrastNowruz is on the way.
