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These Afrikaans (Afrikaans) proverbs speak to knowing, learning and good judgement — the kind handed down by those who came before. Here are 6 of them, each with its literal translation and a clear explanation of its meaning, drawn from documented Afrikaans usage.
Daar is meer as een manier om 'n kat te wurg.
Literally: “There is more than one way to strangle a cat.”
Meaning: There is more than one way to solve a problem.
Onbekend maak onbemind.
Literally: “Unknown makes unloved.”
Meaning: We tend to dislike or distrust what we do not know or understand.
Beter 'n half eier as 'n leë dop.
Literally: “Better half an egg than an empty shell.”
Meaning: It is better to have a little of something than nothing at all.
Al is die leuen nog so snel, die waarheid agterhaal hom wel.
Literally: “However fast the lie may be, the truth does catch up with it.”
Meaning: No matter how quickly a lie spreads, the truth will eventually be revealed.
Alle baat help.
Literally: “Every benefit helps.”
Meaning: Every little bit helps; even small contributions are worthwhile.
Boontjie kry sy loontjie.
Literally: “Little bean gets its little wage.”
Meaning: A wrongdoer eventually gets their just deserts; one reaps what one sows.