Signification
Habits formed young are hard to break later.
Contexte culturel
This proverb highlights the 'collectivist' nature of Filipino families. A child's behavior is never just their own; it is a direct reflection of their parents' 'pagpapalaki' (upbringing). The 'pagtanda' part of the proverb reinforces the idea that elders are the final result of a long process of character building, which is why they are respected as sources of wisdom. Many Filipinos link this proverb to the Biblical verse Proverbs 22:6: 'Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.' The Philippine Department of Education often uses this sentiment to promote the 'K-12' program and 'GMRC' (Good Manners and Right Conduct) subjects.
Use it for Compliments
If you see someone doing something very impressive or disciplined, use this proverb to compliment their parents indirectly. It's a very high form of praise in Filipino culture.
Don't be too judgmental
Using this for someone's bad habits can sound like you're saying they can never change. Use it carefully in sensitive situations.
Signification
Habits formed young are hard to break later.
Use it for Compliments
If you see someone doing something very impressive or disciplined, use this proverb to compliment their parents indirectly. It's a very high form of praise in Filipino culture.
Don't be too judgmental
Using this for someone's bad habits can sound like you're saying they can never change. Use it carefully in sensitive situations.
The 'Po' and 'Opo' Connection
This proverb is most frequently cited in the context of 'paggalang' (respect). If a child doesn't say 'Po', this is the proverb that usually follows.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb by filling in the missing words.
Ang gawa sa ________, dala hanggang sa ________.
The correct words are 'pagkabata' (childhood) and 'pagtanda' (old age).
Which situation best illustrates the proverb?
A man who was taught to say 'Po' and 'Opo' as a child still uses them at age 70.
This is a perfect example of a childhood habit being carried into old age.
What would a grandmother say to a mother whose child is being lazy?
Lola: 'Turuan mo siyang magsipag...'
The proverb is used here as a justification for early discipline.
Match the habit to the proverb's application.
Habit: Saving money since age 5.
The proverb suggests the habit of saving will persist.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesAng gawa sa ________, dala hanggang sa ________.
The correct words are 'pagkabata' (childhood) and 'pagtanda' (old age).
A man who was taught to say 'Po' and 'Opo' as a child still uses them at age 70.
This is a perfect example of a childhood habit being carried into old age.
Lola: 'Turuan mo siyang magsipag...'
The proverb is used here as a justification for early discipline.
Habit: Saving money since age 5.
The proverb suggests the habit of saving will persist.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
5 questionsNo, it's used equally for good and bad habits. It's about the permanence of character, regardless of the quality.
Yes, but it's more commonly used for 'ugali' (character/manners) than for technical skills.
'Gawa' means an act or deed, while 'gawi' means a habit or custom. Both are used in this proverb, but 'gawa' is the more traditional version.
Young people know it, but they usually hear it from their parents or grandparents. They might use it ironically or when talking about their own childhood.
The word is 'dala.' It implies carrying something with you as you move through life.
Expressions liées
Kung ano ang puno, siya ang bunga
similarLike tree, like fruit.
Laki sa layaw
contrastRaised in luxury/spoiled.
Nasa tao ang gawa, nasa Diyos ang awa
builds onMan does the work, God provides the mercy.
Paghubog ng karakter
specialized formMolding of character.
