Meaning
People who threaten rarely act.
Cultural Background
In Latvian folklore, the dog is often a guardian of the 'sēta' (farmstead). A barking dog is seen as a social signal rather than a physical threat. Latvians value 'darba tikums' (work virtue). This proverb reinforces the idea that talking (barking) is not work (biting/acting). There is a strong cultural preference for modesty. Being 'skaļš' (loud) is generally viewed negatively in traditional Latvian society. The proverb is often used in political cartoons in Latvian newspapers to depict 'loud' politicians.
Use it for reassurance
It's a great way to make a friend feel better if someone was rude to them.
Don't be too literal
If a real dog is barking at you, still be careful! Proverbial wisdom isn't veterinary advice.
Meaning
People who threaten rarely act.
Use it for reassurance
It's a great way to make a friend feel better if someone was rude to them.
Don't be too literal
If a real dog is barking at you, still be careful! Proverbial wisdom isn't veterinary advice.
Master the 'ž'
The 'ž' in 'nekož' is key to sounding native. It's a soft, buzzing sound.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing verb in its correct form.
Suns, kas ______, nekož.
The 3rd person present singular of 'riet' is 'rej'.
Which situation best fits the proverb?
Your boss is shouting about a mistake but doesn't punish anyone. You say:
This proverb is used for loud but harmless threats.
Match the Latvian words to their English meanings.
1. Suns, 2. Rej, 3. Nekož
Basic vocabulary matching.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Es baidos no viņa draudiem! B: Neuztraucies, ______.
The proverb fits perfectly as a reassurance.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesSuns, kas ______, nekož.
The 3rd person present singular of 'riet' is 'rej'.
Your boss is shouting about a mistake but doesn't punish anyone. You say:
This proverb is used for loud but harmless threats.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Basic vocabulary matching.
A: Es baidos no viņa draudiem! B: Neuztraucies, ______.
The proverb fits perfectly as a reassurance.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsNot usually, but it is dismissive. You wouldn't say it to the person's face unless you want to insult them.
Yes, 'suns' is masculine but the proverb applies to any person regardless of gender.
Latvian verbs often have vowel shifts. 'Riet' becomes 'rej' in the present tense. It's just an irregular pattern you have to memorize.
Yes, you can just say 'Rējējs suns nekož.'
Yes, it's one of the top 10 most used proverbs in Latvia.
Related Phrases
Tukša muca tālu skan
similarAn empty barrel makes a loud sound.
Klusie ūdeņi ir tie dziļākie
contrastStill waters run deep.
Darbi runā skaļāk par vārdiem
builds onActions speak louder than words.
Rējējs suns
specialized formA barker dog.
