Bedeutung
Do not criticize a gift.
Kultureller Hintergrund
In Italy, the proverb is a staple of childhood education, often used by parents to teach children to be polite when receiving gifts from relatives. The Spanish equivalent is just as common and holds the same weight in social etiquette, emphasizing the 'teeth' (diente). German culture values directness, but this proverb is a well-known exception that enforces social harmony. French etiquette places high value on the 'art of receiving', and this proverb is a fundamental part of that social code.
Use it as a gentle correction
It is a very polite way to tell someone they are being rude without being aggressive.
It's a classic
Every Italian knows this proverb. Using it will make you sound very natural and culturally aware.
Bedeutung
Do not criticize a gift.
Use it as a gentle correction
It is a very polite way to tell someone they are being rude without being aggressive.
It's a classic
Every Italian knows this proverb. Using it will make you sound very natural and culturally aware.
Teste dich selbst
Complete the proverb.
A caval donato non si guarda in ________.
The proverb specifically refers to the mouth of the horse.
What is the meaning of this proverb?
When should you use this phrase?
The proverb is about social etiquette regarding gifts.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'This watch is too cheap.' B: '________'
This is the appropriate response to someone criticizing a gift.
Match the situation to the proverb.
Your friend complains about a free ticket. What do you say?
This proverb is the correct response for ungrateful behavior regarding gifts.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Aufgabensammlung
4 AufgabenA caval donato non si guarda in ________.
The proverb specifically refers to the mouth of the horse.
When should you use this phrase?
The proverb is about social etiquette regarding gifts.
A: 'This watch is too cheap.' B: '________'
This is the appropriate response to someone criticizing a gift.
Your friend complains about a free ticket. What do you say?
This proverb is the correct response for ungrateful behavior regarding gifts.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Häufig gestellte Fragen
12 FragenNo, it's a standard proverb. It's only rude if you use it to dismiss someone's valid concerns.
Yes, if a colleague is complaining about a small office gift or perk.
Because horses were historically the most valuable gifts, and checking their teeth was the standard way to evaluate them.
Sometimes people just say 'A caval donato...', but the full version is better.
Yes, if someone complains about a small bonus or a free amount of money.
No, it applies to favors, help, and services too.
You should still be polite and say thank you; the proverb is about your reaction, not your internal feelings.
Extremely common. You will hear it often.
Only if you have a very friendly relationship; otherwise, it might sound too informal.
Yes, it's a very common European proverb.
Yes, it's a great way to teach them manners.
It can be seen as a bit 'old-fashioned' or 'preachy' if used too often.
Verwandte Redewendungen
Non sputare nel piatto dove mangi
similarDon't bite the hand that feeds you.
Accettare di buon grado
builds onTo accept willingly.
Essere riconoscenti
similarTo be grateful.
Non guardare il pelo nell'uovo
similarDon't be overly pedantic.
