Proverbi khmer

Tœk laeng trey si sramoch, tœk haoch sramoch si trey

When the water rises, fish eat ants; when the water recedes, ants eat fish

♦︎ This proverb teaches that fortunes are always changing. Those who are powerful today may become vulnerable tomorrow, and vice versa. It encourages humility and compassion toward those in weaker positions.

Chong ban trey, trov much tœk

If you want fish, you must dive into the water

♦︎ This proverb emphasizes that nothing worthwhile comes without effort. To achieve your goals, you must be willing to take action and face challenges head-on.

Dai muoy teah min leu

One hand cannot clap

♦︎ This proverb highlights the importance of cooperation and teamwork. No one can accomplish great things alone — success requires collaboration and mutual support.

Cheh tae daer neung dol, kit tae thveu neung ban

Keep walking and you will arrive, keep working and you will succeed

♦︎ This proverb is about perseverance and determination. It encourages people to never give up, because consistent effort will eventually lead to achieving one's goals.

Kom kab mek chheu dael khluon angkuy

Don't cut the branch on which you are sitting

♦︎ This proverb warns against self-destructive behavior. It advises people not to destroy the very things or relationships that support and sustain them.

Pracheanha chea kamlang manus, kamlang chea pracheanha sat

Wisdom is the strength of humans, strength is the wisdom of animals

♦︎ This proverb teaches that what distinguishes humans from animals is the use of intelligence and wisdom rather than brute force. Humans should rely on their minds to solve problems, not violence.

Srolanh ko srolanh teang tong, srolanh kon srolanh teang mae

Love the cow, love its tether; love the child, love the mother

♦︎ This proverb teaches that when you love someone or something, you should also love and respect everything connected to them. True love is unconditional and extends to the whole context.

Mat mean pis cheang pous

The mouth is more venomous than a snake

♦︎ This proverb warns that hurtful words can cause more damage than a physical wound. A snake's bite may heal, but cruel words can leave lasting scars on the heart.

Daem chheu muoy daem, thveu prey min ban

One tree cannot make a forest

♦︎ This proverb stresses the importance of unity and collective effort. A single individual, no matter how strong, cannot accomplish what a group working together can.

Tov srok na, tam srok noh

When you go to a country, follow that country's customs

♦︎ Similar to 'When in Rome, do as the Romans do,' this proverb advises people to adapt to local customs and traditions when visiting or living in a new place. It promotes respect for cultural differences.

Chek muoy santon, min tum damnal knea

Bananas on the same bunch don't ripen at the same time

♦︎ This proverb teaches that even people from the same family or community develop at different rates. It encourages patience and acceptance of individual differences, reminding us not to compare ourselves to others.

Chik andoung mun srek teuk

Dig the well before you are thirsty

♦︎ This proverb emphasizes the importance of preparation and foresight. One should plan ahead and prepare for future needs rather than waiting until a crisis arises.

Slab proh mat, khvak proh phnek

Die because of the mouth, go blind because of the eyes

♦︎ This proverb warns about the dangers of speaking carelessly and looking at things one shouldn't. Reckless words can lead to fatal consequences, and wandering eyes can lead to trouble and suffering.

Deung chraen, mat trov sngat

The more you know, the quieter you should be

♦︎ This proverb teaches the virtue of discretion and humility. Truly wise people do not boast about their knowledge. They listen more than they speak and choose their words carefully.

Noam knea daer, noam knea dol; noam knea phong, noam knea lich

Walk together, arrive together; float together, sink together

♦︎ This proverb speaks about solidarity and shared destiny. Whether in good times or bad, people who stick together will share both the rewards and the hardships. It emphasizes loyalty and commitment to one's community.