Meaning
One must take risks or make an effort to achieve something worthwhile.
Cultural Background
In Portugal, 'petiscos' are a way of life. Going 'petiscar' involves small plates like 'pica-pau' or 'moelas'. The proverb links success to the best part of Portuguese social life. Brazilians are known for 'jeitinho' and 'desenrascanço'. This proverb is often used to justify 'gambiarra' (creative fixes) or bold entrepreneurial moves in a volatile economy. Similar to other Lusophone countries, the phrase is used in business and street markets (candongas) to encourage trade and bargaining. The phrase is well-known and often used alongside local Crioulo proverbs that emphasize resilience and effort.
The Rhyme is Key
If you forget the exact words, just remember it ends in '-isca'. This will help your brain retrieve the verbs.
Use it to be Likable
Using this proverb makes you sound more 'native' and less like a textbook. It shows you understand Portuguese humor and pragmatism.
Meaning
One must take risks or make an effort to achieve something worthwhile.
The Rhyme is Key
If you forget the exact words, just remember it ends in '-isca'. This will help your brain retrieve the verbs.
Use it to be Likable
Using this proverb makes you sound more 'native' and less like a textbook. It shows you understand Portuguese humor and pragmatism.
Don't over-explain
You don't need to explain the 'snack' part. Everyone knows it's figurative.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct verb.
Quem não arrisca não ________.
The proverb specifically uses 'petisca' to rhyme with 'arrisca'.
In which situation is this phrase MOST appropriate?
Your friend is afraid to ask for a promotion.
The phrase is used to encourage taking risks for a reward.
What does 'petiscar' literally mean?
O significado literal de 'petiscar' é:
'Petiscar' comes from 'petisco' (snack/appetizer).
Complete the dialogue.
João: 'Não sei se tento o vestibular para Medicina, é muito difícil.' Maria: 'Tenta! ________'
This is the perfect context for encouraging someone to try something difficult.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesQuem não arrisca não ________.
The proverb specifically uses 'petisca' to rhyme with 'arrisca'.
Your friend is afraid to ask for a promotion.
The phrase is used to encourage taking risks for a reward.
O significado literal de 'petiscar' é:
'Petiscar' comes from 'petisco' (snack/appetizer).
João: 'Não sei se tento o vestibular para Medicina, é muito difícil.' Maria: 'Tenta! ________'
This is the perfect context for encouraging someone to try something difficult.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, but mostly in the context of eating appetizers. In this proverb, it's used metaphorically.
It's a bit informal. Use it with colleagues you know well, but maybe not with a new CEO.
The phrase is the same in Brazil and Portugal, but Brazilians might also say 'O não eu já tenho'.
Almost never. It's 99% used for non-food risks like jobs, love, or sports.
Related Phrases
O não eu já tenho
similarI already have the 'no'.
Quem não chora não mama
similarHe who doesn't cry doesn't suckle.
A sorte protege os audazes
synonymFortune favors the bold.
Mais vale um pássaro na mão do que dois voando
contrastA bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
