Significado
It is preferable to be by yourself than with negative people.
Contexto cultural
In Spain, this proverb is often used by parents to warn children about 'malas compañías' (bad influences). It is part of the traditional moral education. In Mexico, it's very common to hear 'Mejor solo que mal acompañado'. It's used frequently in ranchera music and telenovelas to show a character's strength and independence. Argentines might use this with a bit of irony or 'cancha' (confidence). It's a way to say they are too good for the current options available. In countries like Cuba or Puerto Rico, the proverb is often shortened in casual speech to just 'Más vale solo...', with the listener expected to finish the thought.
Use it for breakups
It's the most polite and wise way to explain why you are single.
Don't be too blunt
Saying this to someone you just met might make you seem arrogant.
Significado
It is preferable to be by yourself than with negative people.
Use it for breakups
It's the most polite and wise way to explain why you are single.
Don't be too blunt
Saying this to someone you just met might make you seem arrogant.
The 'Mejor' variation
If you are in Mexico or Colombia, use 'Mejor solo...' to sound more local.
Teste-se
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
Más vale solo que mal __________.
The proverb uses the past participle 'acompañado' as an adjective.
Which situation best fits the proverb?
Situation: Maria broke up with her boyfriend because he was mean to her. Now she is single and happy.
This proverb is perfect for justifying being single instead of being in a bad relationship.
What does 'Más vale' mean in this context?
Más vale solo que mal acompañado.
'Valer' in proverbs often means 'to be better' or 'to be preferable'.
Complete the dialogue.
Juan: ¿Por qué no sales con ese grupo de chicos? Pedro: No me gustan sus valores. __________.
Pedro is choosing to be alone rather than with people he doesn't respect.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Recursos visuais
Banco de exercicios
4 exerciciosMás vale solo que mal __________.
The proverb uses the past participle 'acompañado' as an adjective.
Situation: Maria broke up with her boyfriend because he was mean to her. Now she is single and happy.
This proverb is perfect for justifying being single instead of being in a bad relationship.
Más vale solo que mal acompañado.
'Valer' in proverbs often means 'to be better' or 'to be preferable'.
Juan: ¿Por qué no sales con ese grupo de chicos? Pedro: No me gustan sus valores. __________.
Pedro is choosing to be alone rather than with people he doesn't respect.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasNot usually. It's considered a piece of wisdom. However, if you say it about someone who is standing right there, it's very insulting.
Yes! 'Más vale sola que mal acompañada' is perfectly correct and very common for women to say.
'Más vale' literally means 'is worth more', while 'mejor' means 'better'. In this proverb, they are interchangeable.
Yes, to describe why a partnership ended or why a company is avoiding a certain deal.
It's an old phrase, but it's not 'outdated'. People of all ages use it today.
No, it is secular folk wisdom, though it aligns with many religious teachings about avoiding sin.
Yes, if you are distancing yourself from toxic family members, this phrase is often used.
It sounds like the 'ny' in 'onion' or 'canyon'. Press your tongue against the roof of your mouth.
Sometimes people just say 'Más vale solo...' and leave the rest to the imagination.
It means being with people who have bad intentions, bad manners, or a negative influence on you.
Frases relacionadas
Dime con quién andas y te diré quién eres
similarTell me who you hang out with and I'll tell you who you are.
Más vale tarde que nunca
builds onBetter late than never.
A caballo regalado no le mires el diente
contrastDon't look a gift horse in the mouth.
La soledad es mejor que una mala compañía
synonymSolitude is better than bad company.
