Although thousands of kilometers separate us from Venezuela, there is one part of our culture that will always remain with us: the Venezuelan sayings.
These sayings, passed down from generation to generation, enrich the language and create a unique way of communicating.
With their wit and wisdom, they reflect the history, customs and values of our country, becoming a linguistic map that guides us through our cultural identity.
If you are living abroad, these sayings act as an emotional bridge that connects us with our homeland, relieving nostalgia and reaffirming our cultural ties. They keep our identity alive, even thousands of miles away.
With this article, we would like to bring you a little piece of Venezuela to wherever you are recalling some of the Venezuelan sayings most popular.
Surely there will be some that you use in your daily life and others that you have heard once and remind you of a special moment.
And, if you haven't heard it before, we encourage you to try to guess its meaning.
We hope you enjoy them!
More Than Words: Venezuelan Sayings as a Map of our Culture
The Venezuelan sayings are an essential component of the Venezuelan cultureoffering a unique window into the idiosyncrasy and daily life of the country.
They have their roots in a mixture of indigenous, African and Spanish influenceswhich were merged during the colonial times and evolved over time.
Each proverb carries with it a part of this story, becoming a oral heritage that has endured over the centuries.
This process of oral transmission has been fundamental in keeping alive the traditions and popular beliefs, turning proverbs into a kind of "proverb", a kind of intangible heritage that adapts and evolves with each generation.
The fact is that sayings adapt and evolve over time, incorporating new realities and contexts, which allows them to continue to be relevant in the contemporary life.
In short, the Venezuelan sayings are much more than simple phrases; they are a rich source of cultural identity that connects the Venezuelans with its history, customs and values.
Through them, they perpetuate a tradition of wisdom and keep alive the essence of what it means to be Venezuelan.
Explore the origin and meaning of our sayings
As we have seen, the Venezuelan sayings are much more than just catch phrases.
They are communication tools that allow us to express complex ideas in a concise and memorable way.
These sayings, rooted in our culture. history and traditions, have served as intergenerational bridges, strengthening our social and cultural ties.
Here, we invite you to discover some of them and where it comes from.
"Let's put on our espadrilles because what's coming is joropo".
Origin: This saying comes from the venezuelan llanera traditionwhere the joropo is a Venezuelan folk music and dance.
Literal meaning: Get ready to dance joropo, that is, to face a situation that requires energy and movement.
Figurative meaning: It is used to indicate that the following are coming difficult or hectic times, that require from us an active and confrontational attitude.
It invites you to prepare for what is to come, to get into action.
Historical context: This saying dates back to the colonial times and the hacienda era..
The llaneros, men and womenThey worked hard in the fields, wearing espadrilles as footwear. And, the joropo was a way to celebrate after a long day's work, but it was also an expression of resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
By saying "to put on the espadrilles".In the first part of the book, reference was made to the need to be prepared for hard work and struggle, while in the second part of the book, reference was made to the need to be prepared for hard work and struggle. joropo symbolized the hope and joy in the midst of difficulties.
"Don't waste gunpowder on zamuro."
Origin: This saying is based on observation of nature and practical experience.
The zamuro is a common bird in Venezuelascavenger and of no culinary value.
Literal meaning: Don't waste gunpowder (ammunition) in killing a zamuroas it does not have any benefits.
Figurative meaning: It is used to advise someone not to waste time or resources on things or people that are not worthwhile. It is an invitation to prioritize and focus on what really matters.
Historical context: This saying has its roots in the conquest and colonization period. The Spanish introduced the firearms in AmericaThis led to a shortage of gunpowder.
In addition, the zamuro, being a scavenger bird, it did not represent any economic or social value. Therefore, wasting gunpowder on killing a zamuro was considered a waste of resources and a lack of common sense.
"Having the game locked up."
Origin: This saying comes from the game of dominoes, a very popular pastime in Venezuela.
When a player has no tiles to match those on the table, the game is said to be locked.
Literal meaning: In the game of dominohave the locked game means not being able to continue playing.
Figurative meaning: Used to describe a situation in which a person feels blocked or without options. It can refer to a problem with no apparent solution or a difficult decision to make.
Cultural context: Although the game of dominoes became popular in Venezuela in the 20th century, the idea of feeling trapped or with no way out is universal and transcends any era.
This saying reflects the uncertainty and frustration that can arise in any life situation, from gambling to everyday challenges.
"Neither washes nor lends the punt."
Origin: This saying is related to household chores and community life.
The batea was a utensil used for washing clothes, and the fact of not lending it or not washing with it implied a selfish attitude.
Literal meaning: The person to whom this saying applies does not want to share his goods or collaborate with others.
Figurative meaning: It is used to describe someone who is selfish and uncaring, unwilling to help others or share what they have.
Social context: This saying is linked to domestic life and social relations in rural communities.
In the colonial times and for much of the XIX century, access to water and cleaning utensils was limited. The batea was a precious commodity and sharing it implied an act of generosity.
Therefore, refusing to provide the batea or to use it to wash someone else's clothes was considered an act of selfishness and lack of solidarity.
"Tarde piaste, pajarito."
Origin: Birds are usually very active and always alert, especially at dawn. If a bird falls asleep and wakes up late, the best chances of finding food have already passed.
Literal meaning: The bird sang too late, when the other birds had already found food.
Figurative meaning: It is used to indicate that someone was late for an important opportunity or situation. It can also refer to someone who realizes something they should have done or said earlier.
Historical context: This saying has its roots in the agricultural and rural societies.
In these communities, punctuality and efficiency were essential to ensure survival. Sunrise marked the beginning of the workday and opportunities to obtain food.
"Shrimp that sleeps is carried away by the current".
Origin: This saying has its roots in the observation of marine life.
The shrimp are small and fragile creatures that can easily be swept away by currents if they are not attentive.
Literal meaning: If a shrimp relaxes and is not alert, the current of the sea will carry him to an unknown place.
Figurative meaning: It is used to warn someone to be proactive and take advantage of opportunities, because if they are careless, they may miss them.
Historical context: In coastal cultures, the fishing was a relevant economic activity.
The fishermen knew that the tide and ocean currents could change rapidly, and that carelessness could lead to losing the catch.
This saying became a warning to always be alert and take advantage of opportunities.
Did you know these Venezuelan sayings? At Curiara We hope you have enjoyed this tour through some of our most popular sayings.
We know that being away from home can be really complicated at times, that's why we wanted you to be transported for a while to Venezuela.
And, if you also miss our rich gastronomydon't miss our articles about the Venezuelan food in Orlando (Florida) and the 10 products from Venezuela that you can find in the U.S..
