Meaning
Money is hard to earn.
Cultural Background
Slovenians value 'pridnost' (diligence) above almost all else. This proverb is a cornerstone of that value system. In many neighboring countries like Austria and Croatia, similar proverbs exist, reflecting a shared history of agricultural labor. Despite becoming a wealthy EU nation, the frugal mindset remains. Even wealthy Slovenians will use this phrase to teach their children. Since trees are the most visible natural resource in Slovenia, the metaphor is very grounded in the local landscape.
Use it with kids
It's the most natural way to use the phrase. It sounds like a wise teacher.
Don't be mean
If someone is really poor, this phrase sounds like you are mocking them.
Meaning
Money is hard to earn.
Use it with kids
It's the most natural way to use the phrase. It sounds like a wise teacher.
Don't be mean
If someone is really poor, this phrase sounds like you are mocking them.
Grammar check
Remember the '-u' at the end of 'drevesu'. It's the locative case!
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word in the proverb.
Denar ne raste na ________.
The correct word is 'drevesu' (tree) in the locative case.
Which situation is most appropriate for this phrase?
Your child asks for a third ice cream in one day. What do you say?
This phrase is used to deny a request for money or expensive items.
Match the Slovenian words with their English meanings.
Match the following:
Basic vocabulary matching.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Ali lahko dobim nov računalnik?' B: 'Žal ne, ________.'
The proverb fits the context of refusing an expensive request.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesDenar ne raste na ________.
The correct word is 'drevesu' (tree) in the locative case.
Your child asks for a third ice cream in one day. What do you say?
This phrase is used to deny a request for money or expensive items.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Basic vocabulary matching.
A: 'Ali lahko dobim nov računalnik?' B: 'Žal ne, ________.'
The proverb fits the context of refusing an expensive request.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt's a bit too informal for a business email. Use 'Sredstva so omejena' instead.
Always 'na drevesu'. 'V drevesu' would mean inside the wood of the tree.
Yes, though often sarcastically or when complaining about bills.
Denar ne raste na drevesih. It's correct but less common than the singular.
Related Phrases
Denar ne pade z neba
synonymMoney doesn't fall from the sky.
Brez dela ni jela
similarWithout work, there is no food.
Denar je sveta vladar
contrastMoney is the ruler of the world.
Šparati je treba
builds onOne must save.
