Meaning
Being patient is a positive trait.
Cultural Background
The Dutch value 'nuchterheid' (pragmatism). This proverb supports the idea that one should not get overly emotional about things they cannot control, like time. In Flanders, 'schoon' is still commonly used to mean 'beautiful' in daily speech, so the proverb feels less archaic than in the Netherlands. In Dutch business, 'poldering' (seeking consensus) takes a lot of time. This proverb is often used to justify the long duration of decision-making processes. Dutch parents and teachers use this frequently to teach children emotional regulation and delayed gratification.
The 'Schoon' Trap
Remember that 'schoon' doesn't mean your patience is clean! It means it's a noble quality.
Use it to de-escalate
If someone is getting annoyed in a queue, saying this with a smile can often calm the situation.
Meaning
Being patient is a positive trait.
The 'Schoon' Trap
Remember that 'schoon' doesn't mean your patience is clean! It means it's a noble quality.
Use it to de-escalate
If someone is getting annoyed in a queue, saying this with a smile can often calm the situation.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
Geduld is een ______ ______.
The fixed proverb is 'Geduld is een schone zaak'.
In which situation is this proverb most appropriate?
Your friend is angry because the train is 5 minutes late.
The proverb is used to encourage patience during delays.
What does 'schoon' mean in this proverb?
In 'Geduld is een schone zaak', the word 'schone' means:
Historically, 'schoon' meant beautiful or noble in this context.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Ik wil nu mijn cadeau openmaken!' B: 'Nee, wacht tot je jarig bent. ______.'
B is telling A to wait for their birthday.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesGeduld is een ______ ______.
The fixed proverb is 'Geduld is een schone zaak'.
Your friend is angry because the train is 5 minutes late.
The proverb is used to encourage patience during delays.
In 'Geduld is een schone zaak', the word 'schone' means:
Historically, 'schoon' meant beautiful or noble in this context.
A: 'Ik wil nu mijn cadeau openmaken!' B: 'Nee, wacht tot je jarig bent. ______.'
B is telling A to wait for their birthday.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, though often slightly ironically or when they are genuinely trying to be patient.
People will understand you, but it's not the correct proverb. Stick to 'schone'.
It's neutral to formal. You can use it with your boss or your friends.
No, 'zaak' can mean shop, but here it means 'matter' or 'affair'.
Related Phrases
Geduld loont
similarPatience pays off
De aanhouder wint
similarThe one who persists wins
Alles op zijn tijd
similarEverything in its own time
Haastige spoed is zelden goed
contrastHaste is rarely good
