Polish proverbs

Polish proverbs are short expressions of popular wisdom from all Polish speaking parts of the world.

A

• Ani kura za darmo nie gdacze.
  • Idiomatic translation: You can't get something for nothing.
  • English equivalent: The only free cheese is in the mouse trap.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 799. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Anielskie usta a szatanskie serce.
  • Idiomatic translation: A honey tongue and a heart of gall.
  • Note: A "hypo proverb" of "Beware of wolves in sheep's clothing..."
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 108. ISBN 0415160502. 

B

• Nie trzeba dowierzać.
  • Idiomatic translation: Diffidence is the right eye of prudence.
  • Meaning: Diffidently pondering something will often lead to a sensible solution.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 701. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Biada bez dzieci, biada i z dziećmi.
  • Idiomatic translation: Children are uncertain comforts but certain cares.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 654. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Bierze wilk i liczone owce.
  • Idiomatic translation: Cats eat what hussies spare.
  • Note: "Cat" is a slang term for prostitute.
  • Meaning: An inferior workman might defeat his competition by making the services he provides more remarkable.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 641. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Bóg nie opuści, kto się nan spuści.
  • Idiomatic translation: He who serves God has a good master.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 873. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Bóg trójcę lubi.
  • Idiomatic translation: All good things are three.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 80. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Bogaty rzadko sprawiedliwy albo sam, albo jego przodek.
  • Idiomatic translation: No one gets rich quickly if he is honest.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 963. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Bogu świeczkę, a diabłu ogarek.
  • Idiomatic translation: A fair face and a foul heart.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 35. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Bogu ufaj, a ręki przykładaj.
  • Idiomatic translation: God helps those who help themselves.
  • Meaning: When in trouble first of all every one himself should do his best to improve his condition.
  • Source for meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 150. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 732. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Broda nie czyni filozofa.
  • Idiomatic translation: If the beard were all, the goat might preach.
  • Meaning: Mere formal signs of being an authority does not make you one.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 117. ISBN 0415160502. 

C

• Chociaż w ciasnocie, ale w zgodzie.
  • Idiomatic translation: The more the merrier.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1094. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Chudoba cnoty nie traci.
  • Translation: Poverty does not lose its virtue.
  • Meaning: ?
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1030. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Ciekawość - pierwszy stopień do piekła.
  • Idiomatic translation: Curiosity killed the cat.
  • Meaning: Inquisitiveness is harmful to you.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 684. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Cierpieć z drugimi lżej.
  • Idiomatic translation: Misery loves company.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 187. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Co było, nie wróci.
  • Idiomatic translation: Time and tide waits for no man.
  • Meaning: The Future will forsake those who forsake him; Focus on the major worries you have today, because you will have even more major worries tomorrow.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 723. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Co lekko przyszło, lekko pójdzie.
  • Idiomatic translation: Easy come, easy go.
  • Meaning: Something good that enters your life easily, will also often leave quickly.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 762. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Co mnie dziś, tobie jutro.
  • Translation: Today for me, and tomorrow for you.
  • English equivalent: Today me, tomorrow thee.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1038. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Co z jabłoni spadnie, niedaleko upadnie.
  • Idiomatic translation: The apple does not fall far from the tree.
  • Meaning: Children observe daily and — in their behaviour — often follow the example of their parents.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 488. ISBN 0415096243. 
  • Source for meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 259. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Coś posiał – zbieraj [alternate, metaphorically Kto sieje wiatr, zbiera burzę. or Tak się wyśpisz, jak sobie pościelesz.]
  • Translation: What you reap is what you sow.
  • Strauss (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 394. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Cudze ręce lekkie, ale niespore.
  • Translation: Someone else's hands are light, but not big.
  • English equivalent: For what thou canst do thyself, rely not on another.
  • Latin equivalent: Ne quid expectes amicos, quod tute agere possis.
    • Translation: Expect nothing from friends, do what you can do yourself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 600. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Cudze wady rychlej niż swoje obaczamy.
  • Idiomatic translation: Forget other faults remembering your own; Forgive and forget.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 838. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Czasowi ludzie służą.
  • Idiomatic translation: Gnaw the bone which is fallen to thy lot.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 865. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Uwaga! Stary pies szczeka.
  • Idiomatic translation: An old dog barks not in vain.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 55. ISBN 0415160502. 

D

• Daj krowie w żłobie, to ona da tobie.
  • Idiomatic translation: It's by the head that the cow gives the milk.
  • Meaning: Whatever input you give, whatever output you get.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1039. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Dar za dar, słowa za słowa.
  • Idiomatic translation: Nothing for nothing.
  • Meaning: He who works for nothing shall recieve nothing from others except complaint.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1111. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Dla chcącego nic trudnego.
  • Translation: Nothing is difficult if one wants it
  • English equivalent: If there is a will, there is a way.
  • Source needed

• Do odważnych świat należy.
  • Idiomatic translation: Fortune favours the bold.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 38. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Do tanga trzeba dwojga.
  • Translation: It takes two to tango.
  • Furiassi, C. The Anglicization of European Lexis, John Benjamins Publishing Company.

• Dobra psu i mucha.
  • Idiomatic translation: Make a virtue out of necessity.
  • Meaning: Acquiesce in doing something unpleasant with a show of grace because one must do it in any case.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1079. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Doczeka się sierpa pokrzywa.
  • Translation: He who digs a pit for others, will fall in it himself.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 651. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Domowe psy, choć się kąsają, wilka ujrzawszy nań się rzucają.
  • Idiomatic translation: Don't go between the tree and the bark.
  • Meaning: Do not interfere when two parts are having an argument.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 729. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Dobra wola za uczynek stoi.
  • Idiomatic translation: Take the will for the deed.
  • Meaning: Judge by the well intentioned effort, and not its effects.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 881. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Dobre daleko słychać, a złe jeszcze dalej.
  • Translation: Ingratitude is the world's reward.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 55. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Dobry początek - połowa roboty.
  • Idiomatic translation: A good beginning makes a good ending; Well begun is half done.
  • Meaning: Starting properly ensures the speedy completion of a process. A – beginning is often blocked by one or more obstacles (potential barriers) the removal of which may ensure the smooth course of the process.
  • Source for meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 228. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 24. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Dobrymi chęciami jest piekło wybrukowane.
  • Translation: The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 257. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Doktorze, sam się wylecz!
  • Idiomatic translation: Physician, heal yourself!
  • Meaning: Don't correct other's faults; correct your own faults instead.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1142. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Dziecko, pijany i głupi zawsze prawde powie.
  • Idiomatic translation: Children, fools and drunken men tell the truth.
  • Meaning: Children and fools have no inhibition, and alcohol consumed removes the inhibition against telling the truth that occasionally one would like to keep secret.
  • Source for proverbs and meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 272. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

G

• Gdy idziesz zabijać muchę, nie zabieraj ze sobą armaty.
  • Idiomatic translation: Don't carry coals to newcastle.
  • Meaning: Don't do things in a needlessly laborious way.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 723. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gdzie nie można przeskoczyć, tam trzeba podleźć.
  • Idiomatic translation: Skill is better than strength.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 681. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gdzie pana kochają, tam i jego pieska głaszczą.
  • Idiomatic translation: Love me, love my dog.
  • Meaning: If someone wants to be in a relationship with you, they must be willing to accept everything about you.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 953. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Głaszcz ty kotowi skórę, a on ogon wzgórę.
  • Translation: Cat patting leads to hump raising.
  • English equivalent: The more you stroke the cat's tail, the more he raises his back.
  • Meaning: Play hard to get, both in friendship and in courtship.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1184. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Głos ludu, głos Boga.
  • Idiomatic translation: "The voice of the people is the voice of god.”
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1164. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Gotowe zdrowie, kto chorobie powie.
  • Idiomatic translation: A problem shared is a problem halved.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 100. ISBN 0415160502. 

H

• Historia się powtarza.
  • Idiomatic translation: History repeats itself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 977. ISBN 0415096243. 

J

• Jacy rodzice, takie dzieci.
  • Translation: What kind of parents, such children.
  • Meaning: Children will become like older generations.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 138. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Jaka matka, taka Katka.
  • Translation: Mary will foster a daughter like herself.
  • English equivalent: Like mother, like daughter.
  • Meaning: Daughters may look and behave like their mothers. This is due to inheritance and the example observed closely and rarely.
  • Source for meaning and proverb: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 137. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Jaką miarką mierzysz, taką ci odmierzą.
  • Idiomatic translation: Whatever measure you deal out to others will be dealt back to you.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1219. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jaka płaca, taka praca.
  • Translation: What pay, such work.
  • English equivalent: You get what you pay for.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 494. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jak dają, to bierz.
  • Translation: Seize the offer.
  • English equivalent: When the pig is proffered, hold up the poke.
  • Meaning: We should accept the offers that has been given us.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1226. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jak sobie pościelesz, tak się wyśpisz.
  • Word-for-word translation: You rest the way you have made your bed.
  • English equivalent: As ye sow, so shall ye reap.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 143. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Jaki do jedzenia, taki do roboty.
  • Idiomatic translation: Quick at meat, quick at work.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1150. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jaki ojciec, taki syn.
  • Translation: As the father goes ahead, so he is followed by his son.
  • English equivalent: Like father, like son.
  • Meaning: Sons may look and behave like their fathers. This is due to inheritance and the example observed closely and daily.
  • Source for meaning and proverb: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 137. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Jakie przyczyny, takie też skutki.
  • Idiomatic translation: Every why has a wherefore.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 765. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jakie pytanie, taka odpowiedź.
  • Idiomatic translation: "Just as one calls into the forest, so it echoes back."
  • Meaning: Do not expect friendly reply when being obnoxious.
  • Meaning: Bad language may have other causes than innate bad character.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 139. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Kto chce wygrać gąsiora, trzeba ważyć kaczora.
  • Translation: Who wants to win a gander, you need to weigh Drake.
  • English equivalent: Set a herring to catch a whale.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1134. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jeśliś szewc, pilnuj swego kopyta!
  • Idiomatic translation: "Shoemaker, not above the sandal."
  • Note: Its origin is set down in Pliny the Elder's Naturalis Historia [XXXV, 36, 85-86 (Loeb IX, 323-325)] where he records that a shoemaker (sutor) had approached the painter Apelles of Kos to point out a defect in the artist's rendition of a sandal (crepida from Greek krepis), p. which Apelles duly corrected. Encouraged by this, the shoemaker then began to enlarge on other defects he considered present in the painting, at which point Apelles advised him that Ne supra crepidam sutor iudicaret (a shoemaker should not judge above the sandal), p. which advice, Pliny observed, had become a proverbial saying.
  • Meaning: Do not talk about things you do not know anything about.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 660. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Jeża nie dotykaj, bo ukłuje.
  • Idiomatic translation: Do not play with edged tools.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 716. ISBN 0415096243. 

K

• Kogo Pan Bóg stworzy, tego nie umorzy.
  • Idiomatic translation: Each day brings it own bread.
  • Meaning: Try not to worry so much about the future.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 757. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Komu nie ma rady, temu nie ma pomocy.
  • Translation: He who can't be advised, can also not be helped.
  • English equivalent: He that will not be counseled cannot be helped.
  • Meaning: Advice often contain a genuine warning or an effective suggestion, which is unprudent not to take into consideration.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 964. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kozła doiḉ próżno.
  • Translation: You cannot flay a stone.
  • English equivalent: You can't milk a bull.
  • Meaning: It is impossible to sway a hostile minded person.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1040. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Ksiądz prałat tłumaczy, a żyje inaczej.
  • Idiomatic translation: Preachers say: do as I say, not as i do.
  • Possible interpretation: A man should not reprimand those who are younger than himself, when they are merely doing what he does or has done.
  • ** Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 706. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kto łaskę pańską szacuje, coś w sobie niepewnego czuje.
  • Idiomatic translation: A king's favour is no inheritance.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 24. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Kto czeka, ten się doczeka.
  • Idiomatic translation. He that can have patience can have what he will.
  • Other idiomatic translation: Patience is a remedy for every sorrow.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 87. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Kto dwa zające goni, żadnego nie złapie.
  • Idiomatic translation: Grasp all, lose all
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 886. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kto ma żytko, ma wszystko.
  • Idiomatic translation: Plough deep while sluggards sleep, and you will have corn to sell and keep.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1001. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kto nie idzie naprzód, ten się cofa.
  • Idiomatic translation: He who does not advance goes backwards.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 445. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kto prawdę gada, wiele slow nie potrzebuje.
  • Translation: Who's talking the truth, does not need a lot of words.
  • English equivalent: Truth gives a short answer, lies go round about.
  • Latin equivalent: Obscuris vera involvens.
    • Translation: Obscurity envelops truth.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1183. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kto prawdzie dzwoni, taki na guz goni.
  • Idiomatic translation: All truths are not to be told.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 282. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kto rano wstaje, temu Pan Bóg daje.
  • Meaning: He who gets up in the morning, is rewarded by God.
  • German: Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund.
  • English equivalent: Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
  • Mianowskiego, Kasa (1894). Ksiega przyslów: przypowieści i wrażeń przyslowiowych polskich Ksiega przyslów: przypowieści i wrażeń przyslowiowych polskich, Samuel Adalberg. Druk E. Skiwskiego. p. 614. 

• Kto się pańską łaską chwali, cemsi(sic) nejistym(sic) się żali.
  • Idiomatic translation: A king's favour is no inheritance.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 24. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Kogo Bóg chce skarać, wtedy mu rozum odejmie.
  • Idiomatic translation: Whom God will destroy, he first make mad.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 841. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nie kupuj kota w worku.
  • Idiomatic translation: Never buy a pig in a poke.
  • Meaning: At least do some research before buying a product.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1101. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kropla drąży kamień.
  • Idiomatic translation: Constant dropping wears the stone.
  • Meaning: Many small changes will soon make a big difference.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 187. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Kto się ożeni, to się odmieni.
  • Idiomatic translation: Marry and grow tame.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1085. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kuj żelazo, póki gorące.
  • German translation: Das Eisen schmieden, solange es heiss ist.
  • English equivalent:
    • Strike while the iron is hot
    • Make hay while the sun shines
  • Mianowskiego, Kasa (1894). Ksiega przyslów: przypowieści i wrażeń przyslowiowych polskich Ksiega przyslów: przypowieści i wrażeń przyslowiowych polskich, Samuel Adalberg. Druk E. Skiwskiego. p. 546. 

L

• Łakomy wszystkim zły, sojbie najgorszyş.
  • Idiomatic translation: The covetous man is good to none and worst to himself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 83. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Lekarstwo podczas, cięższe niż choroba.
  • Idiomatic translation: The remedy is often worse than the disease; Burn not your house to rid it off the mouse.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. entry 646. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Lepiej nie dosolić, nie przesolić.
  • Translation: Better not to add salt than oversalt.
  • English equivalent: Better underdone than overdone.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 589. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Lepiej umrzeć stojąc niż żyć na kolanach.'
  • Idiomatic translation: ”Death before dishonour.”
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 164. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Lepsze jedno dziś, niż dwoje jutro.
  • Translation: Better one today, than two tomorrow.
  • English equivalent: One today is worth two tomorrows.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1137. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Lepsze jest wrogiem dobrego.'
  • Idiomatic translation: ”Better is the enemy of good.”
  • Meaning: The aim for perfection or mastery might slow down progress.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 166. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Lepsze imię dobre niźli bogactwa hojne.
  • Idiomatic translation: A good name is the best of all treasures.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 58. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Lepszy grosz dany niż złoty obiecany.
  • Idiomatic translation: Better an egg today than a hen tomorrow.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 75. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Lepszy własny chleb niż pożyczona bułka.
  • Idiomatic translation: Dry bread at home is better than roast meat abroad.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 754. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Lepsza rozwaga niż odwaga.
  • Translation: Better discretion than courage.
  • English equivalent: Discretion is the better part of valor.
  • Meaning: Act valiant cautiously.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 703. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Lepsze zdrowie niż pieniądze.
  • Idiomatic translation: Good health is above wealth.
  • Meaning: Wisdom acquired by experience is basically only very bitterly acquired.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 879. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Lepszy wróbel w garści niż gołąb na dachu
  • Translation: A sparrow in your hand is better than a pigeon on the roof.
  • English equivalent: A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
  • Grębski, Marek (2008). Sukces na egzaminie. Sklep WSiP 10 % rabatu. p. 14. ISBN 8302089346. 

• Ludzi słuchaj, a swój rozum miej.
  • Translation: Listen to people, but keep your own wits.
  • English equivalent: Though thou hast ever so many counsellors, yet do not forsake the counsel of thy own soul.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1044. ISBN 0415096243. 

M

• Mowa wiatr, a pismo grunt.
  • Idiomatic translation: Paper is forbearing.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1160. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Mowa pospolita, pospolicie prawdziwa.
  • Translation: Provided common, commonly true.
  • English equivalent: Common fame is seldom to blame.
  • Meaning: A general disrepute is true.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 662. ISBN 0415096243. 

N

• Na grubą gałąź trzeba grubego klina.
  • Idiomatic translation: ”You must meet roughness with roughness.”
  • Example: If someone treats you poorly, you should treat him equally poorly.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 12. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Na pohled orel a rozum tetrevi.
  • Idiomatic translation: Never judge by appearances; Judge not a man and things at first sight.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 713. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Na kulawym koniu daleko nie zajedziesz.
  • Idiomatic translation: Take heed of enemies reconciled and of meat twice boiled.
  • Meaning: Your former enemies might cunningly take revenge on you just out of spite.; Trust not a reconciled enemy more than an open foe.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 25. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Nie chwal dnia przed zachodem słońca.
  • Translation: Don't praise the day before sunset
  • Meaning: Don't celebrate untill you are 100 % there is a reason to do so.
  • Kamiński, Marek (2008). Razem na Bieguny. Sklep WSiP 10 % rabatu. p. 176. ISBN 8391100960. 

• Nie ma reguły bez wyjątky.
  • Translation: No rules without exceptions.
  • English equivalent: There is no rule without an exception.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1174. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nie od pracy, ale od złej doli głowa boli.
  • Translation: Sorrow makes gray hairs before the time.
  • English equivalent: Fretting cares make grey hairs.
  • Meaning: Worrying is a negative activity that can age you prematurely.
  • Source for proverb: Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 631. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nie wierz słowom, a czynom.
  • Translation: Bear witness to facts, not words.
  • Idiomatic translation: No need of words, trust deeds.
  • Meaning: One should pay attention to what people do rather than what they say.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 91. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nad możność nikogo nie pociagają.
  • Idiomatic translation: Do as you may, if you can't do as you could.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 707. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Niech się najbardziej wysmuknie sowa, przecie nie dojdzie sokoła.
  • Idiomatic translation: Never judge by appearances; Judge not a man and things at first sight.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 713. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Niecnotliwa zazdrość, chyba w niebie jej nie masz.
  • Idiomatic translation: Envy takes no holiday.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 767. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Niedaleko pada jabłko od jabłoni.
  • Idiomatic translation: The apple does not fall far from the tree.
  • Meaning: Children observe daily and — in their behaviour — often follow the example of their parents.
  • Source for proverbs and meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 259. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Nie potrzeba ognia do ognia przydawać.
  • Translation: You should not add oil to the fire.
  • English equivalent: Don't add fuel to the fire.
  • Meaning: One should not make a bad situation even worse by an improper remark.
  • Source for meaning and proverbs: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 338. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Nie przyszła góra do Mahometa, Mahomet przyszedł do góry.
  • Translation: If the mountain won't come to Mohammed, Mohammed must come to the mountain.
  • Meaning: If reality does not adapt itself to your whims, you must adapt your whims to reality.
  • English equivalent: If the mountain will not come to Mahomet, Mahomet must go to the mountain.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 1006. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nie pytaj starego, pytaj bywałego.
  • Idiomatic translation: Experience keeps a dear school.
  • Meaning: Wisdom acquired by experience is basically only very bitterly acquired.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 808. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Na pochyłe drzewo wszystkie kozy skaczą.
  • Translation: All goats jump onto leaning trees
  • Meaning: If you leave yourself open to abuse, others will abuse you.
  • English equivalent: If you turn yourself into a doormat, everyone will walk over you.
  • Kamiński, Marek (2003). Uniwersalny słownik języka polskiego, Stanisław Dubisz. Wydawn. Naukowe PWN. p. 716. ISBN 8301138580. 

• Nic nowego pod słońcem.
  • Idiomatic translation: Nothing is new (under the sun).
  • Meaning: Absolutely everything has been done before.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1114. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nie dziel skóry na niedźwiedziu.
  • Translation: Don't share the skin while it's still on the bear
  • Adamska-Sałaciak, Arleta (2003). Nowy słownik Fundacji Kościuszkowskiej polsko-angielski - The new Kosciuszko Foundation dictionary Polish-English, Volym 2. Kościuszko Foundation. p. 514. ISBN 832420007X. 

• Nie mów „hop”, póki nie przeskoczysz.
  • Translation: Don't say 'up', before you have jumped
  • Meaning: First do your task, then talk about it.
  • English equivalent: Walk the walk, then talk the talk.
  • Drabik, Lidia (2006). Słownik idiomów polskich PWN. Wydawnictwo Naukowe PWN. p. 321. ISBN 8301148322. 

• Nie trzeba dowierzać.
  • Idiomatic translation: Diffidence is the right eye of prudence.
  • Meaning: When forming a belief be doubtful; no one is always right after all.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 701. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nie trzeba dowierzać.
  • Idiomatic translation: Distrust is the mother of safety.
  • Meaning: Trust no one except yourself, and don't trust yourself entirely either; Trust, but verify.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 699. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nie wszystko złoto, co się świeci.
  • Translation: Not all is gold that glitters
  • English Equivalent: Not all that glitters is gold.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 77. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Nim słońce wzejdzie, rosa oczy wygryzie.
  • Idiomatic translation: While the grass grows the steed starves.
  • Meaning: Dreams or expectations may be realized too late.
  • Meaning: Children observe daily and — in their behaviour — often follow the example of their parents.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1228. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Nowa miotła dobrze zamiata.
  • Idiomatic translation: "New brooms sweep clean."
  • Meaning: Newcomers are the most ambitious.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1103. ISBN 0415096243. 

O

• Obiecianki - cacanki.
  • Idiomatic translation: Eggs and oaths are soon broken.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 765. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Od wymysłów jeszcze nikt nie umarł..
  • Idiomatic translation: Hard words break no bones.
  • Meaning: It is often good to tell someone a harsh truth (including yourself).; Don't lie to yourself.; Don't live in denial.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 17. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Odmiana słodzi rzeczy.
  • Idiomatic translation: "Variety pleases."
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1998). Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 89. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Okazja łysa z tyłu, z przodu ją brać trzeba.
  • Idiomatic translation: Opportunity knocks only once.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 400. ISBN 0415096243. 

P

• Pieniądze szczęścia nie dają.
  • Idiomatic translation: He is rich enough that wants nothing; He is not poor that has little, but desires much; Wealth rarely brings happiness.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 671. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Piosnka najprzyjemniejsza każdemu, gdy go chwalą.
  • Idiomatic translation: There is no sound more pleasing than one's owns praises.
  • Meaning: Truthful praise costs little and yields very much.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 319. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Po to są pieniądze, aby je wydawać.
  • Translation: The hidden things of wisdom and a treasure that is not seen, what profit is in them both?
  • English equivalent: Money is there to be spent.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1013. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Poznać błazna i bez dzwonków.
  • Translation: A fool does not need any bells.
  • English equivalent: A tongue of a fool carves a piece of his heart to all that sit near him.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 136. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Postawić wszystsko na jedną kartę.
  • Idiomatic translation: "Don't put all your eggs in the same basket."
  • Meaning: The rule of diversification should be applied in finance and all other walks of life.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 715. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Prawda nie głaszcze.
  • Idiomatic translation: Not all truths are proper to be told.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1111. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Kto buja wysoko, bywa próżny.
  • Idiomatic translation: It is not the cow that shouts the loudest that gives the most milk (French).
  • Meaning: It is not he who advertises for himself the most that can achieve the greatest results..
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1169. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Prosta droga najkrótsza.
  • Translation: Fortune favours the bold.
  • Strauss (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs. Routledge. p. 394. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Punktualność jest grzecznością królów.
  • Idiomatic translation: Punctuality is the virtue of princes.
  • Meaning: Don't see the faults in others. Correct your own faults instead.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1142. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Pychy niedobry koniec bywa.
  • Translation: Pride comes before fall.
  • Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 1149. ISBN 0415096243. 

R

• Rannego wstania, rannej siejby i rannego ożenienia jeszcze nikt nie żałował.
  • Idiomatic translation: Who has not served cannot command.
  • Meaning: One must have been controlled in the same situation one wishes to properly control others.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 758. ISBN 0415096243. 

S

• Słowa myśl pochłaniają, słowa myśli kłamią.
  • Idiomatic translation: Men talk only to conceal the mind.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 1088. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Słyszy czujny, chć śpi.
  • Translation: With patience you go beyond knowledge.
  • English equivalent: An ounce of patience is worth a pound of brains.
  • Meaning: Patience can often do more than your wits.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 415. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Szanuj honor od młodu.
  • Translation: Old habits die hard.
  • Source: Strauss, Emmanuel (1994). Dictionary of European Proverbs, Volym 1. Routledge. p. 1122. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Śpiesz się powoli.
  • Translation: Make haste slowly.
  • English equivalent: More speed less haste.
  • Latin equivalent: Festina lente.
  • Meaning: Do your work slowly to make sure it gets thoroughly done.
  • Wydawnictwo Naukowe, Państwowe (2000). Inny słownik języka polskiego PWN, Volume 2. Wydawn. Nauk. PWN. p. 228. ISBN 8301128267. 

• Stara miłość nie rdzewieje.
  • Idiomatic translation: True love never grows old.
  • Jordan, Penny (1996). Stara miłość nie rdzewieje. Harlequin Enterprises. pp. 156. ISBN 8370708919. 

• Starość, nie radość.
  • Idiomatic translation: Age and poverty are ill to bear.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 177. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Szewc bez butów chodzi.
  • Idiomatic translation: Cobblers' children are worst shod.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 661. ISBN 0415096243. 

T

• Ten się drapie, kogo swędzi.
  • Translation: To whom it itches, scratches it.
  • English equivalent: If the shoe fits, wear it.
  • Meaning: Accept an unflattering, yet accurate, description of yourself.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 998. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Tonący brzytwy się chwyta
  • Idiomatic translation: A drowning man plucks at a straw.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 33. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Trudno naturę odmienić.
  • Idiomatic translation: What is bred in the bone will not go out of the flesh.
  • Meaning: What is innate is not to be eradicated by force of education or self discipline: these may modify the outward manifestations of a man's nature, but not transmute the nature itself.
  • Source for meaning: Kelly, Walter Keating (1859). Proverbs of all nations. W. Kent & co. (late D. Bogue). p. X. 
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 985. ISBN 0415096243. 

W

• Wchodząc między wrony, krakaj jak i one.
  • Alternatively: Kiedy wszedłeś między wrony, musisz krakać jak i one
  • Translation: When among the crows, caw as the crows do
  • English Equivalent: When in Rome, do as the Romans do
  • Kojder, Andrzej (2002). Klimaty korupcji. Centrum im. Adama Smitha & Wydawn. Naukowe Semper. p. 80. ISBN 8386885432. 

• Więcej ludzi utonęło w kieliszku niż w morzu.
  • Idiomatic translation: Gluttony kills more than the sword; Wine has drowned more than the sea.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 864. ISBN 0415096243. 

• Wielcy złodzieje małych wieszają.
  • Idiomatic translation: Men are like fish; the great ones devour the small.
  • Meaning: A weak person/group/community/country can be an easy prey to an immoral, powerful one. ** Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1086. ISBN 0415096243. 
  • Source for meaning: Paczolay, Gyula (1997). European Proverbs in 55 languages. DeProverbio.com. p. 420. ISBN 1-875943-44-7. 

• Wolno bogatemu biednie żyć.
  • Idiomatic translation: His own desire leads every man.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 977. ISBN 0415096243. 

Z

• Z deszczu pod rynnę
  • Word-for-word translation: From rain and under the gutter.
  • Meaning: Action to improve situation had made it not better or even worse.
  • English equivalent: Out of the frying pan and into the fire.
  • Kakietek (1999). Phraseological dictionary Polish-English. Energeia. p. 55. ISBN 8385118705. 

• Z niczego nic nie będzie.
  • Idiomatic translation: From nothing nothing can come.
  • Meaning: If you don't do anything, nothing will come to you.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1998). Concise Dictionary of European Proverbs (Abbreviated ed.). Routledge. p. 238. ISBN 0415160502. 

• Złej baletnicy przeszkadza rąbek u spódnicy
  • Translation: A bad dancer blames the hem of her skirt.
  • English equivalent: A bad workman always blames his tools.
  • Wydawnictwo Naukowe, Państwowe (2002). Inny słownik języka polskiego PWN, Volym 2. Wydawn. Nauk. PWN. p. 337. ISBN 8301128267. 

• Żaden w swej sprawie sędzia być nie może.
  • Translation: No one can be the judge in his own trial.
  • English equivalent: No one can be the judge in his own case.
  • Strauss, Emanuel (1994). Dictionary of European proverbs (Volume 2 ed.). Routledge. p. 1038. ISBN 0415096243. 

See also

• Esperanto proverbs