Meaning
Keep things; they will be useful.
Cultural Background
In villages, the 'samanlık' (straw loft) was a separate building. It was a symbol of security. A full straw loft meant the animals would survive the winter, which meant the family would have milk and meat. Despite rapid urbanization, the 'saving' mentality persists. Many Turks keep a 'junk drawer' or a balcony full of items that 'might be useful,' often citing this proverb. This proverb is being reclaimed by Turkish environmentalists as a slogan for the 'Zero Waste' (Sıfır Atık) movement, bridging traditional values with modern ecology. Turkish hospitality often involves having 'extra' of everything (plates, blankets, slippers) just in case a guest arrives. This proverb justifies the storage of these extra items.
Use it for small things
This proverb is most effective when talking about small, seemingly insignificant items like a screw, a piece of string, or a 1-lira coin.
Don't sound like a hoarder
If you use this for actual trash, people might think you are messy. Use it only for things that have a plausible future use.
Meaning
Keep things; they will be useful.
Use it for small things
This proverb is most effective when talking about small, seemingly insignificant items like a screw, a piece of string, or a 1-lira coin.
Don't sound like a hoarder
If you use this for actual trash, people might think you are messy. Use it only for things that have a plausible future use.
The 'Grandmother' Vibe
Using this phrase often gives off a warm, wise, 'grandmotherly' vibe. It shows you value tradition.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb.
Sakla _______, gelir zamanı.
The literal word used in the proverb is 'saman' (straw).
In which situation would you use this proverb?
Your friend is throwing away a slightly scratched but working phone charger.
This proverb is used when advising someone to keep something that might be useful later.
Choose the best response.
Ali: Bu eski ders notlarını çöpe atıyorum. Veli: _________
Veli is advising Ali to keep the notes for future use.
Match the word to its role in the proverb.
1. Sakla, 2. Samanı, 3. Gelir, 4. Zamanı
Sakla (Imperative), Samanı (Object), Gelir (Aorist), Zamanı (Possessive).
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesSakla _______, gelir zamanı.
The literal word used in the proverb is 'saman' (straw).
Your friend is throwing away a slightly scratched but working phone charger.
This proverb is used when advising someone to keep something that might be useful later.
Ali: Bu eski ders notlarını çöpe atıyorum. Veli: _________
Veli is advising Ali to keep the notes for future use.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Sakla (Imperative), Samanı (Object), Gelir (Aorist), Zamanı (Possessive).
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but often ironically or when talking about digital files and vintage fashion.
Yes, although 'Ak akçe kara gün içindir' is more specific for money, this one works too.
It means straw—the dried stalks of grain used for animal bedding or fodder.
It's inverted (devrik) for poetic rhythm and emphasis on the action of 'coming'.
It's neutral. You can use it with your boss or your little brother.
No, it's generally positive advice about being prepared.
Yes, people will understand you, but the original version sounds more natural.
Not exactly this one, but 'Vakit nakittir' (Time is money) is used for time management.
There isn't a direct opposite proverb, but the concept of 'minimalism' or 'decluttering' (sadeleşme) is its modern rival.
It's like the 'e' in 'the' when spoken quickly. It's a neutral, closed sound.
Related Phrases
Ak akçe kara gün içindir
similarWhite money is for a black day.
Damlaya damlaya göl olur
builds onDrop by drop it becomes a lake.
İşten artmaz, dişten artar
similarSavings come from eating less, not working more.
Güvenme varlığa, düşersin darlığa
contrastDon't trust your wealth, you'll fall into poverty.
