Meaning
Sleeping makes one forget hunger; rest can substitute for food.
Cultural Background
Reflects the historical importance of 'l'auberge' (the inn) in French social life and the strict rules of hospitality. The word 'dîner' in Quebec refers to the midday meal (lunch), but the proverb is still understood in its universal sense. Like in Quebec, 'dîner' is lunch. This can lead to minor confusion for French people from France, but the proverb remains a fixed idiom. The proverb is often used to emphasize resilience and the ability to endure hardship with dignity.
Use it ironically
The best way to sound like a native is to use this when you are clearly hungry but too lazy to cook.
Don't over-conjugate
Keep it in the present tense. 'Qui a dormi a dîné' is never used.
Meaning
Sleeping makes one forget hunger; rest can substitute for food.
Use it ironically
The best way to sound like a native is to use this when you are clearly hungry but too lazy to cook.
Don't over-conjugate
Keep it in the present tense. 'Qui a dormi a dîné' is never used.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb.
Qui ____ dîne.
The proverb is 'Qui dort dîne.'
In which situation would you say 'Qui dort dîne'?
You are at a 5-star restaurant with friends.
You use this when you are *not* eating.
What is the meaning of 'Qui dort dîne'?
Choose the best definition.
The proverb suggests sleep replaces the need for a meal.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Je n'ai rien pour le dîner.' B: 'C'est pas grave, ________.'
B is suggesting that sleep will solve the lack of dinner.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesQui ____ dîne.
The proverb is 'Qui dort dîne.'
You are at a 5-star restaurant with friends.
You use this when you are *not* eating.
Choose the best definition.
The proverb suggests sleep replaces the need for a meal.
A: 'Je n'ai rien pour le dîner.' B: 'C'est pas grave, ________.'
B is suggesting that sleep will solve the lack of dinner.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, it is very common in casual conversation, especially among students or people working late.
No, it means that while you are asleep, you won't feel the physical sensation of hunger.
Technically no, as 'dîne' refers to dinner, but people might use it jokingly for any skipped meal.
Related Phrases
Le sommeil est la moitié de la santé
similarSleep is half of health.
Ventre affamé n'a pas d'oreilles
contrastA hungry belly has no ears.
Dormir sur ses deux oreilles
builds onTo sleep soundly.
