Meaning
Speaking of someone often makes them appear.
Cultural Background
The wolf is a central figure in Latvian mythology, often seen as a protector or a 'dog of God' (Dieva suns). Word magic (taboo names) was common across the Baltics. People believed that naming a predator would summon it. Despite its rural origins, the phrase is now a staple of urban office culture and social media interactions. The structure of the proverb follows the 'dainas' rhythm, making it very easy for Latvians to remember and recite.
Use it for phone calls!
It's not just for physical arrivals. If someone texts you while you're talking about them, it's the perfect time to use this phrase.
Don't say it if you were being mean
If you were gossiping negatively, saying this might alert the person that they were the subject of your talk, which could be awkward!
Meaning
Speaking of someone often makes them appear.
Use it for phone calls!
It's not just for physical arrivals. If someone texts you while you're talking about them, it's the perfect time to use this phrase.
Don't say it if you were being mean
If you were gossiping negatively, saying this might alert the person that they were the subject of your talk, which could be awkward!
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word in the proverb.
______ piemin, vilks klāt.
The word must be in the accusative case (Vilku) because it is the object of the verb 'piemin'.
In which situation is it most appropriate to say 'Vilku piemin, vilks klāt'?
Match the situation.
The phrase is used when someone you are discussing appears unexpectedly.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Vai tu redzēji Jāni? B: Nē... ak, skaties! Re kur viņš nāk! A: ________!
This is the natural reaction when someone you just asked about appears.
Which of these is a common variation of the phrase?
Choose the correct variation.
Using the imperative 'Piemini' is a very common and correct variation.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises______ piemin, vilks klāt.
The word must be in the accusative case (Vilku) because it is the object of the verb 'piemin'.
Match the situation.
The phrase is used when someone you are discussing appears unexpectedly.
A: Vai tu redzēji Jāni? B: Nē... ak, skaties! Re kur viņš nāk! A: ________!
This is the natural reaction when someone you just asked about appears.
Choose the correct variation.
Using the imperative 'Piemini' is a very common and correct variation.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it's generally considered a friendly or neutral observation of a coincidence.
Yes, if the atmosphere is relaxed. It's a very common office phrase.
Latvian culture is traditionally more connected to nature and folklore than to religious concepts like the devil.
No, in this proverb, it stays as 'Vilku' (accusative).
You can still use the singular phrase; it's a fixed expression.
The formal equivalent is 'Mēs tieši par Jums runājām' (We were just talking about you).
Usually no, it's reserved for people or animals.
Yes, it appears frequently in Latvian literature to describe sudden encounters.
It's hundreds of years old, dating back to oral folklore traditions.
Yes, the humor comes from the unexpected timing.
Related Phrases
Kā sauc, tā atskan
similarAs you call, so it echoes.
Nelaime nenāk brēkdama
contrastMisfortune doesn't come screaming.
Piemini velnu
specialized formMention the devil.
