Exploring the Richness of Turkish Sayings and Proverbs

Turkish language is teeming with a wealth of idioms and sayings that reflect the culture and history of Turkey. These expressions are not just words strung together; they are verses from the heart of the Turkish people, offering wisdom, humor, and insight into the daily lives and values of the nation.

Popular Turkish Expressions and Sayings

Here are some of the most popular Turkish sayings and proverbs that capture the essence of the Turkish language and culture:

1. Damlaya damlaya gl olur

Drop by drop becomes a laken

This saying emphasizes the importance of saving even small amounts of money. The phrase conveys a message that if you save even a little bit at a time, it can accumulate into a substantial sum. Just as drops of water form a river, saving money consistently can help you achieve your financial goals.

Translation: Take care of the pennies and pounds will take care of themselves.

2. Sakla saman gelir zaman

Hide Hay; its time will come

This proverb reminds us that hiding something will not stop it from eventually being revealed. It is a reminder that patience and persistence will eventually lead to the right moment and opportunities.

Translation: Keep a thing seven years and youll always find a use for it.

3. El elin eeini türkü syleye syleye ararm

A stranger looks for anothers donkey by singing a song

This saying illustrates that nobody takes care of one's business as well as its owner. It highlights the value of self-reliance and the importance of personal responsibility.

Translation: Nobody takes care of ones business as does its owner.

4. Bal yiyen baldan sklr

Who eats only honey gets tired of honey

This saying warns against monotony. Just as eating only sweet honey will eventually make it taste boring, doing the same thing repeatedly will cause boredom and dissatisfaction.

Translation: The person doing the same things will eventually get bored.

5. Mum dibine k vermez

The candle does not give light to the bottom

This proverb emphasizes that powerful people cannot benefit their relatives as much as they help those who are far away and in need of assistance. It conveys the idea that even the most influential individuals have limitations in helping their closest kin.

Translation: Powerful people cant benefit their relatives as much as they take care of those who are far away and help them a lot.

6. At lür meydan kalr yiit lür an kalr

a horse dies the space remains; a brave man dies his glory remains

This is an old saying that emphasizes the enduring legacy of bravery and valour. It conveys the idea that even though a brave man may die, his glory and achievements live on.

Translation: A brave man dies his glory remains.

The Cultural Significance of These Sayings

The best and most common Turkish saying is "kolay gelsin." Even when you pass someone working, you might say, "kolay gelsin" which means, "may your work be easy." This idiom is used irrespective of the person's profession, gender, or age. It reflects the kindness and communal spirit of Turkish society.

kolay gelsin

The best is “kolay gelsin

This phrase, akin to saying "good luck" or "watch your back," is a quintessentially Turkish expression. It is used to wish someone easier working conditions or to acknowledge their hard work. This saying fosters a sense of community and mutual support among neighbors and acquaintances.

Shakespearean Level Sayings in Turkish

Some Turkish sayings are so culturally significant that they are almost on par with Shakespearean wisdom:

1. Eek ho laftan ne anlar

What would a donkey feel about a compliment

This saying suggests that compliments or praise might go unappreciated by those who do not deserve it. It highlights the importance of understanding and evaluating the sincerity of compliments in Turkish culture.

Translation: What would a donkey feel about a compliment.

2. Koyunun ok olduu yerde keiye Abdurrahman elebi derlermi

They call Abdurrahman elebi to goats where sheep are abundant

This saying is a commentary on abundance and meritocracy. It suggests that in a community where there are many highly capable individuals, someone who may not be equally competent might still be recognized or admired.

Translation: They call Abdurrahman elebi to goats where sheep are abundant.

3. Evir kaz yanmasn

Flip the goose so that it won’t burn

This proverb advises one to be proactive and take preventive measures to avoid problems or failures. Just as turning a goose over protects it from burning, being proactive can help prevent issues before they arise.

Translation: Flip the goose so that it won’t burn.

4. St Cafer bez getir kokutmadan tez getir

Cafer took a dump quickly bring a rag before it stinks

This saying conveys the importance of prompt action. Just as Cafer acted swiftly to deal with an unpleasant situation, taking quick action can prevent problems from worsening.

Translation: Cafer took a dump quickly bring a rag before it stinks.

In conclusion, the study of Turkish sayings and proverbs offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural, historical, and societal values of Turkey. These wisdom-filled phrases serve not only as a means of communication but also as a foundation for the moral and social fabric of the Turkish people.