Understanding Turkish Culture: The Best Turkish Proverbs

Proverbs are well-established sayings that have formed over centuries through accumulated experiences and the wisdom of the people. They express the life experiences, culture, values, and insightful advice of the people in a brief and concise manner. Just as every nation has its own unique proverbs, these sayings also contain universal themes that are part of the shared heritage of human history. Proverbs are passed down from generation to generation as part of oral culture, playing a guiding role in daily life when facing moral, social, and individual situations. Many proverbs offer valuable insights on how people should behave in the face of life's challenges, joys, disappointments, and hopes. In this context, proverbs not only reflect the richness of a language but also reveal a society’s worldview, values, and philosophy of life.

One of the most striking features of proverbs is their ability to express complex thoughts or teachings in a simple and impactful way. These sayings serve as bridges that concretize the sharing of experiences between people from the past to the present. The deep meanings contained in proverbs make them not only a linguistic richness but also a life lesson.

This collection will serve as a guide on your Turkish journey, helping you learn the language in a more enjoyable and meaningful way.

• Aba altında er yatar: A person's value cannot be measured by their clothing and appearance.
• Aba vakti aba, yaba vakti yaba: Needs should be met before the time comes and when they are affordable.
• Abanın kadri yağmurda bilinir: The true value of something is understood when it is needed.
• Acele ile menzil alınmaz: Hurrying does not necessarily lead to quicker results.
• Acele yürüyen yolda kalır: Those who rush while working end up losing their way and cannot finish their tasks.
• Acı acıyı keser, su sancıyı: One hardship can be overcome by confronting another hardship.
• Acı patlıcanı kırağı çalmaz: Someone who is accustomed to a particular situation is not affected by similar negative situations.
• Acıkan ne olsa yer, acıyan ne olsa söyler: A person in hardship will take any route to resolve their situation, and a person in pain will speak without thinking about the consequences.
• Acıkmış kudurmuştan beterdir: A person who has suffered the lack of something will rush to claim it when they find it.
• Acıyan uyumuş, acıkan uyumamış: Any hardship can be endured, but hunger cannot be.
• Aç aman bilmez, çocuk zaman bilmez: A hungry person cannot be soothed by excuses, and a child always wants what they want immediately.
• Aç kurt aslana saldırır: The hungry have lost their reason and will fight even stronger creatures to satisfy their hunger.
• Aç tavuk kendini arpa ambarında sanır: People often dream of things they have never had when they are in need.
• Açık yaraya tuz ekilmez: A person’s grief should not be worsened by words or actions while it is still fresh.
• Adam adama yük değil, can gövdeye mülk değil: We should not be bothered by those who are temporarily with us, for they will not stay forever.
• Adam adamı bir kez aldatır: A person can deceive someone only once; after that, the deceived will not allow it again.
• Adam olana bir söz yeter: For an understanding person, one word is enough to convey a message.
• Adamak kolay, ödemek zordur: It is easy to make promises, but fulfilling them is difficult.
• Adamın yere bakanından, suyun yavaş akanından kork: A silent person, who does not reveal their emotions or thoughts, is like slow-moving deep water—dangerous.
• Adı çıkmış dokuza, inmez sekize: Once a person's reputation is tarnished, it is hard to change the perception.
• Ağaca balta vurmuşlar “sapı bedenimden” demiş: Even the closest people can harm you.
• Ağaca çıkan keçinin dala bakan oğlağı olur: Children tend to follow the actions of their parents.
• Ağaca dayanma kurur, adama insana dayanma ölür: One should trust in themselves, not in others, for the tasks they undertake.
• Ağaca çıksa pabucu yerde kalmaz: A person with no obsessions or hindrances can act freely.
• Ağacı kurt, insanı dert yer: Just as the wolf inside the tree slowly eats it, troubles gnaw away at a person from within.
• Ağacın kurdu içinde olur: The thing that will bring down a community comes from within itself.
• Ağaç kökünden yıkılır: A system falls not due to minor changes but when its foundation is broken.
• Ağaç meyvesi olunca başını aşağı salar: A person who produces beneficial works and is rich in knowledge and virtue remains humble.
• Ağaç ne kadar uzarsa göğe ermez: No matter how high a person rises, they will eventually reach a limit.
• Ağaç yaşken eğilir: People are most easily shaped when they are young.
• Ağaçtan maşa olmaz: A person who lacks ability or skill cannot be used for important tasks.
• Ağır git ki yol alasın: To succeed in something, one should proceed slowly but with reliable steps.
• Ağır otur ki bey desinler: Be dignified so that others show you respect as an elder.
• Ağlama ölü için, ağla deli için: The sorrow of losing someone fades with time, but the sorrow for a loved one who is mentally ill never ends.
• Ağır kazan geç kaynar: Worrying does no good, it only makes things worse.
• Ağlamakla yâr ele geçmez: One cannot gain what they love merely by longing for it; they must find ways to achieve it.
• Ağlamayan çocuğa meme vermezler: If someone doesn’t ask for what they need, no one will fulfill it for them.
• Ağlar gözden, sahte sözden kendini sakın: Be cautious of those who seek sympathy, as they may have ulterior motives.
• Ağlarsa anam ağlar, gayrısı yalan ağlar: Only a mother truly shares a person's pain, others' sympathy is often shallow.
• Ağlayanın malı gülene hayır etmez: Property taken unjustly from someone brings no benefit to the person who took it.
• Ağrısız baş mezarda olur: Everyone has their troubles, and those troubles only end with death.
• Ağustosta beyni kaynayanın zemheride kazanı kaynar: Those who work hard in the summer will enjoy comfort in the winter.
• Ağustosta gölge kovan zemheride karnın ovar: Those who waste their opportunities for enjoyment will end up hungry and destitute.
• Ahbap kusuruna bakan ahbapsız kalır: You should not focus on the minor faults of your friends, or you will end up without any friends.
• Akacak kan damarda durmaz: A person will inevitably encounter their fate, no matter how much they try to avoid it.
• Ak akçe kara gün içindir: Money earned through hard work is a lifesaver in difficult times.
• Ak gün ağartır, kara gün karartır: A happy life makes a person strong, while a miserable one wears them down.
• Ak koyun kara koyun geçit başında belli olur: Who someone truly is becomes clear when they are tested.
• Ak koyunun kara kuzusu da olur: A good family can still produce a bad child.
• Akıl yaşta değil baştadır: Wisdom is not about age; some younger people are wiser than the old.
• Akıllı köprü arayıncaya dek deli suyu geçer: A decisive person takes risks and achieves quick results, while others hesitate.
• Akılsız başın cezasını ayaklar çeker: A thoughtless person will suffer the consequences of their actions.
• Aksak eşekle yüksek dağa çıkılmaz: A task cannot be completed effectively with inadequate tools or resources.
• Akşamın hayrından sabahın şerri iyidir: It’s better to delay an important task until the morning rather than doing it poorly in the evening.
• Al elmaya taş atan çok olur: Many people will try to attack a person of value.
• Al malın iyisini, çekme kaygısını: Those who choose the best will enjoy it without worry.
• Alçak yerde yatma sel alır, yüksek yerde yatma yel alır: One should live according to their situation and choose friends wisely.
• Alıcı kuşun ömrü az olur: A person who makes enemies frequently will have many dangers and eventually meet a bad end.
• Alışmış kudurmuştan beterdir: It’s harder to stop doing something once you’ve gotten used to it.
• Allah kardeşi kardeş yaratmış, kesesini ayrı yaratmış: Everyone should be independent and not rely on others for their livelihood.
• Allah kulunu kısmeti ile yaratır: Everyone has their own way of living, determined by their fortune.
• Allah verirse el getirir, sel getirir, yel getirir: When God decides to bless someone, wealth and prosperity come from unexpected places.
• Alma mazlumun ahını, çıkar aheste aheste: Don’t wrong others, as the consequences of your actions will follow you slowly but surely.
• Almadan vermek Allah’a mahsustur: People expect something in return for their actions, but only God gives without expecting anything.
• Altı olur, yedi olur, hep Allah’ın dediği olur: No matter how much we plan, in the end, it is God's will that prevails.
• Altın eşik gümüş eşiğe muhtaç olur: No one should take their wealth for granted, as there may come a time when they will need help from others.
• Allah’ın bildiği kuldan saklanmaz: A person’s actions cannot be hidden from God, so there’s no need to hide them from others.
• Altın yerde paslanmaz, taş yağmurdan ıslanmaz: Valuable things retain their worth despite difficult conditions.
• Altın yere düşmekle pul olmaz: A person’s value does not decrease by being in a less desirable situation.
• Altının kıymetini sarraf bilir: Only experts know the true value of something.
• Aman diyene kılıç kalkmaz: A noble person should not harm someone who surrenders to them.
• Ana gibi yâr olmaz, Bağdat gibi diyar olmaz: There is no friend as devoted as a mother, and no place as dear as one’s homeland.
• Ananın bastığı yavru incinmez: A child is not hurt by the painful words of their mother.
• Anlayana sivrisinek saz, anlamayana davul zurna az: The smallest thing can affect someone who understands, but it has no effect on those who don’t.
• Araba devrilince yol gösteren çok olur: It’s easy to give advice after a problem has occurred.
• Arayan Mevla’sını da bulur, belasını da: Those who seek good will find it, but those who seek bad will also find it.
• Arı bal alacak çiçeği bilir: A person who is skilled at their job knows exactly where to go to get the best results.
• Arı söğüdü, akıllı öğüdü sever: A wise person listens to advice that will benefit them.
• Arlı arından, huylu huyundan vazgeçmez: A person’s behavior is determined by their nature, and they won’t easily change it.
• Armudu soy ye, elmayı say ye: Take things in moderation; indulge carefully.
• Armut dalının dibine düşer: A person’s behavior is often influenced by their family and surroundings.
• Arpa eken buğday biçmez: Those who act poorly cannot expect good results.
• Asıl azmaz, bal kokmaz: A person’s true nature doesn’t change no matter how much they try to alter it.
• Aslan yatağından belli olur: A person’s true character is revealed by their actions and surroundings.
• Astar bol olmayınca yüze gülmez: To do something well, you need to have everything in place first.
• Aş taşınca kepçeye paha olmaz: In difficult times, even small things seem valuable.
• At, adımına göre değil adamına göre yürür: Just as a horse moves according to the rider, things go according to the person in charge.
• At binenin, kılıç kuşananın: Things are most fitting for the person who knows how to use them.
• At bulunur meydan bulunmaz, meydan bulunur at bulunmaz: Sometimes the right conditions or resources are not available at the right time.
• Atasını tanımayan Allah'ını tanımaz: A person who disrespects their ancestors cannot respect God.
• Ateş düştüğü yeri yakar: Only those who are directly affected can truly understand a problem.
• Ava giden avlanır: He who seeks to harm others for personal gain will eventually suffer the same harm.
• Avcı ne kadar hile al bilse ayı o kadar yol bilir: No matter how skilled a person is in trying to outsmart someone, the other person will also take precautions to avoid defeat.
• Ayağını yorganına göre uzat: Live within your means.
• Ayağının bastığı yerde ot bitmez: A person brings misfortune or infertility wherever they go.
• Az tamah çok ziyan getirir: Greed and stinginess lead to harm.
• Az veren candan, çok veren maldan: A poor person's small gift is a great sacrifice, while a wealthy person's larger gift is not considered a sacrifice.
• Aza kanaat etmeyen çoğu hiç bulamaz: One must be content with little in order to achieve greater things.
• Baba malı tez tükenir, evlat gerek kazana: The true wealth of an intelligent and responsible child is the money they earn, not their inheritance.
• Baca eğri de olsa dumanı doğru çıkar: A person who is inherently good and honest will retain their qualities even in unfavorable conditions.
• Bacak kadar boyu var, türlü türlü huyu var: Someone young but with various habits or character traits that make them different from others.
• Bağa bak, üzüm olsun, yemeye yüzün olsun: A person must make the necessary investments to achieve the desired results in any venture.
• Bağı ağlayanın yüzü güler: When someone puts effort into a task, positive results are usually achieved.
• Baht olmayınca başta, ne kuruda biter ne yaşta: A person who is unlucky will not find success in any endeavor, no matter their age.
• Bakarsan bağ olur, bakmazsan dağ olur: Things that are cared for thrive, while those neglected will bring no benefit.
• Bal bal demekle ağız tatlanmaz: Saying something without taking action has no effect.
• Balık baştan kokar: Problems in a task often stem from the leadership or the start of the process.
• Bal tutan parmağını yalar: A person in charge of distributing good things will benefit, even if only a little, from what they give out.
• Bal olan yerde sinek de olur: Wherever there is something valuable, there will also be parasites trying to benefit from it.
• Balta değmedik ağaç olmaz: Everyone faces challenges and hardships at some point in life.
• Baskıdaki altından askıdaki salkım yeğdir: A worthless but useful object is better than a valuable one that is not used.
• Başa gelmeyince bilinmez: People who haven’t experienced hardships can’t truly understand the suffering of others.
• Bedava sirke baldan tatlıdır: Things obtained without cost or effort are often more appealing.
• Benim oğlum bina okur, döner döner yine okur: A person may work hard but still not progress beyond a certain level.
• Beş parmağın hangisini kessen acımaz?: All children are equally loved, and any harm to them causes the same sorrow.
• Bezi herkesin arşınına göre vermezler: General rules should not be bent to suit individual desires.
• Bıçak kınını kesmez: A bad person may hesitate to harm those they benefit from.
• Bilmemek ayıp değil, öğrenmemek ayıp: It is not shameful to be ignorant, but it is shameful not to ask and learn when needed.
• Bin bilsen de bir bilene danış: Even if you know something well, always seek advice from someone more knowledgeable.
• Bin nasihatten bir musibet yeğdir: Real-life experiences are more impactful than countless pieces of advice.
• Bin tasa bir borç ödemez: Worrying about a debt doesn’t pay it off, no matter how much you stress about it.
• Bir adama kırk gün ne dersen o olur: With enough repeated suggestion, a person’s subconscious beliefs and emotions can be influenced.
• Bir çöplükte iki horoz ötmez: Only one person can be the leader in a place.
• Bir baş soğan bir kazanı kokutur: A bad person, word, or action can ruin the atmosphere for everyone around.
• Bir elin nesi var, iki elin sesi var: Unity is necessary for success.
• Bir fincan kahvenin kırk yıl hatırı vardır: Even a small favor, such as a cup of coffee, should never be forgotten.
• Bir kızı bin kişi ister, bir kişi alır: Many desire something, but only one person can attain it.
• Bir koltuğa iki karpuz sığmaz: One cannot successfully manage multiple tasks at once.
• Bir mıh (çivi) bir nal kurtarır, bir nal bir at kurtarır: Even small actions or details can lead to great outcomes.
• Biri bilmeyen bini hiç bilmez: If someone does not appreciate small good deeds, they do not deserve greater ones.
• Bir söz yola getirir, bir söz yoldan çıkarır: Words can lead someone to the right path, or they can mislead them.
• Biz kırk kişiyiz, birbirimizi biliriz: We know each other very well, so we are aware of each other’s limitations.
• Boğaz dokuz boğumdur: Think carefully before speaking.
• Borcun iyisi vermek, derdin iyisi ölmek: It is better to pay off a debt than to live under its burden; sometimes, death is a way out of a painful problem.
• Borç ödemekle, yol yürümekle tükenir: Debts can be paid off gradually, just as a journey is made step by step.
• Borç yiğidin kamçısıdır: Debt pushes a person to work harder.
• Boş gezmekten bedava çalışmak yeğdir: It is better to work for free than to be idle and do nothing.
• Boşa koysan dolmaz, doluya koysan almaz: When facing an insurmountable problem, nothing can solve it.
• Bu ne perhiz bu ne lahana turşusu: When words and actions are contradictory.
• Buğdayım var deme ambara girmeyince, oğlum var deme yoksulluğa ermeyince: You cannot claim something belongs to you unless all the conditions to possess it are fulfilled.
• Burnunu sıksan canı çıkacak: Refers to very weak and frail individuals.
• Bülbülü altın kafese koymuşlar, ah vatanım demiş: A person may enjoy comfort elsewhere, but they will always long for their homeland.
• Büyük başın derdi büyük olur: A person in a high position will face greater difficulties.
• Büyük lokma ye büyük söz söyleme: Don't make promises or say things beyond your ability to accomplish.
• Can boğazdan gelir: Food is essential for survival and strength.
• Can canın yoldaşıdır: People need each other to survive, and we seek companionship.
• Can çıkmayınca huy çıkmaz: A person’s habits or traits are hard to change once formed.
• Cana gelecek mala gelsin: A person should prioritize life and well-being over material wealth.
• Cana sokakta bulmadım: I’m not willing to endure danger or hardship.
• Cefayı çekmeyen sefanın kadrini bilmez: Those who have never struggled cannot appreciate the comfort they achieve.
• Cömert derler maldan ederler, yiğit derler candan ederler: Those who seek praise for generosity may lose their wealth, while those praised for courage may risk their life.
• Çağrılan yere erinme, çağrılmayan yere görünme: Go only where you are invited and avoid appearing where you're not wanted.
• Çam ağacından ağıl olmaz, el çocuğundan oğul olmaz: Everything has its own purpose, and some things are not meant for certain uses.
• Çanağa ne doğrarsan kaşığında o çıkar: What you prepare in advance will determine your future results.
• Çay geçerken at değiştirilmez: Switching methods or approaches in the midst of a difficult situation is dangerous.
• Çıkmadık canda umut var: If we haven’t completely lost something, there is still hope to salvage it.
• Çıngıraklı deve kaybolmaz: People who leave a lasting impression are never forgotten.
• Çivi çıkar ama yeri kalır: A wound of the heart heals, but it is never forgotten.
• Çivi çiviyi söker: A strong thing is neutralized by something equally strong.
• Çobanın gönlü olursa tekeden süt çıkarır: A person can find a solution to seemingly impossible problems if they are determined.
• Çobansız koyunu kurt kapar: A group or individual without a leader or protector will be taken advantage of by enemies.
• Çocuğu iş buyuran, ardınca kendi gider: If a child is asked to do something, the one who gave the task must follow behind, as the child can't manage it alone.
• Çocuğun bulunduğu yerde dedikodu olmaz: Where there is a child, gossip can't take place, as people are too busy dealing with the child.
• Çocuk düşe kalka büyür: A child learns and grows by falling down and getting up, so parents should not worry too much about these mistakes.
• Çoğu gitti, azı kaldı: The hardest and most significant part of a task is over, only the small and insignificant parts remain.
• Çoğu zarar, azı karar: One should never overdo things; moderation is key.
• Çok bilen çok yanılır: A person who thinks they know everything can make more mistakes because they try to meddle in things they don't understand.
• Çok gezen tavuk ayağında pislik getirir: A person who travels a lot may return with bad habits or harmful knowledge.
• Çok havlayan köpek ısırmaz: A person who barks loudly or threatens others rarely follows through with actions.
• Çok naz âşık usandırır: Like in other things, too much fuss or being overly particular can bore or annoy someone in love.
• Çok söyleme arsız edersin, aç bırakma hırsız edersin: Constantly warning someone or depriving them of something they desire can lead to bad results.
• Çok yaşayan bilmez, çok gezen bilir: A person who travels widely may know more than someone who has lived a long life but hasn't had such experiences.
• Çul içinde aslan yatar: A person's worth is not measured by their appearance, but by their inner qualities and character.
• Dağ başından duman eksik olmaz: Great people always have struggles and troubles, just as there is always smoke at the top of a mountain.
• Dağ dağ üstüne olur, ev ev üstüne olmaz: Disagreements and conflicts are bound to arise between two families living under the same roof.
• Dağ dağa kavuşmaz, insan insana kavuşur: No matter how far apart they are, people can always meet again eventually.
• Dağ ne kadar yüce olsa yol üstünden aşar: Even the hardest challenges can be overcome with persistence and the right approach.
• Dam üstünde saksağan, vur beline kazmayı: A phrase used in response to irrelevant or nonsensical statements.
• Damdan düşen, damdan düşenin hâlini bilir: A person who has fallen from a high position will better understand the struggles of others in similar situations.
• Damlaya damlaya göl olur: Small, consistent efforts can accumulate to create something significant, so don't overlook them.
• Danışan dağı aşmış, danışmayan düz yolda şaşmış: A person who seeks advice can overcome the hardest challenges, while someone who doesn't will struggle even on easier paths.
• Davetsiz gelen döşeksiz oturur: If you go somewhere uninvited, you shouldn't expect to be treated well.
• Davul bile dengi dengine çalar: People who marry should be equally matched, as in the case of drums, where the sound depends on the material.
• Davulun sesi uzaktan hoş gelir: People who are not involved in something often think it is easier or more profitable than it actually is.
• Değirmenin suyu nereden geliyor?: This question refers to wondering how someone is able to finance something or how money is made to cover expenses.
• Delik büyük, yama küçük: The resources at hand are far less than what's needed to fix a big problem.
• Demir nemden, insan gamdan çürür: Just as iron rusts from moisture, people suffer and are worn down by sadness and worries.
• Demir tavında dövülür: Things should be done at the right time and in the proper situation for best results.
• Deniz kenarında dalga eksik olmaz: In an environment where various events take place, occasional conflicts or storms are natural.
• Denizdeki balığın pazarlığı olmaz: One should not discuss the purchase or sale of something that is not yet obtainable.
• Denize düşen yılana sarılır: People in a difficult situation often resort to any means to escape it.
• Derdini söylemeyen derman bulamaz: A person can only alleviate their distress by sharing it with others.
• Derdi veren devasını da verir: Every problem has a solution or remedy.
• Dereyi geçerken at değiştirilmez: One should not switch methods during a risky situation.
• Dert ağlatır, aşk söyletir: Those who have troubles cry, while those in love express their feelings through words.
• Dervişin fikri ne ise zikri de odur: People speak about what they care about or think most.
• Destursuz bağa gireni sopa ile kovarlar: Entering a place or meddling in something without permission is frowned upon.
• Deveyi yardan uçuran bir tutam ottur: People with insatiable greed often risk everything for small gains.
• Dışı eli yakar, içi beni yakar: Do not be deceived by appearances.
• Dikensiz gül olmaz: Everything good or beautiful comes with some challenges or difficulties.
• Dilden gelen elden gelse her fukara padişah olur: One cannot always achieve everything they wish or say.
• Dilsizin dilinden anası anlar: Those close to someone understand them better than others.
• Doğru söz acıdır: The truth, though hard to accept, can be painful for those it concerns.
• Doğrunun yardımcısı Allah’tır: A person who sticks to the truth will always have divine help.
• Doluya koydum almadı, boşa koydum dolmadı: A phrase expressing a difficult or impossible situation.
• Dost acı söyler: A true friend will say painful truths for your own good.
• Dost ağlatır, düşman güldürür: A friend’s harsh words are for your benefit, while an enemy’s actions are intended to harm you.
• Dost başa, düşman ayağa bakar: One should always be well-groomed and presentable, regardless of who they are with.
• Dost dostun ayıbını yüzüne söyler: A true friend will point out your flaws to help you improve.
• Dostun attığı taş baş yarmaz: The harsh actions or words of a friend do not harm as they come from a place of care.
• Dostluk okkayla, alışveriş dirhemle: Friendship is priceless, but business transactions should be measured.
• Dün öleni dün gömerler: One should not dwell on past sorrow, but move on.
• Ecel geldi cihana, baş ağrısı bahane: There is always a reason for death; the pain is just an excuse.
• Eğilen baş kesilmez: A person who acknowledges their faults and apologizes should be forgiven.
• Eğreti ata binen tez iner: Temporary solutions often do not work in the long run.
• Eğri oturup doğru konuşalım: Regardless of our position, we should always speak the truth.
• Ekmek aslanın ağzında: Earning a living and making money is not easy.
• Ekmek istemez su istemez: Something or someone that requires no effort or expense.
• El için ağlayan gözden olur: One should not sacrifice everything for someone else’s sake.
• El kazanıyla aş kaynamaz: Important tasks cannot be accomplished without help from others.
• Elçiye zeval olmaz: The messenger is not held accountable for the message they deliver.
• Elin ağzı torba değil ki büzesin: You cannot control what others say.
• Elmanın dibi göl, armudun dibi yol: Just because things look alike on the outside doesn’t mean the same approach can be applied to them. Each one requires a different treatment based on its own characteristics.
• Emek olmadan yemek olmaz: You need to work and earn to live and spend.
• Erkeğin kalbine giden yol midesinden geçer: To win a man's affection, a woman should prepare delicious meals for him.
• Erken kalkan yol alır: Those who start early in their tasks will gain advantages.
• Eski düşman dost olmaz, yenisinden vefa gelmez: Old enmities cannot turn into friendships, and new relationships may lack loyalty.
• Eskisi olmayanın yenisi olmaz: When acquiring something new, the old one should not be discarded immediately.
• Eşeğe altın semer vursalar yine eşektir: A person lacking human values cannot gain worth through their appearance, position, or wealth.
• Eşek, kulağı kesilmekle küheylan olmaz: Changing one’s appearance doesn’t change their essence.
• Etle tırnak arasına girilmez: It is wrong to take sides in family disputes.
• Etme bulma dünyası: Those who do evil will eventually face the consequences.
• Ev alma, komşu al: Having a good neighbor is more important than owning a house.
• Evdeki hesap çarşıya uymaz: Things don’t always turn out as planned; expectations don’t match reality.
• Evden bir ölü çıkacak demişler, herkes hizmetçinin yüzüne bakmış: When a dangerous task needs to be done, people expect someone they can control to do it.
• Evlinin bir evi var, kiracının bin evi var: The one who owns a house lives only in their own, while the one who doesn’t own one can live wherever they like.
• Fakirlik ayıp değil, tembellik ayıp: Poverty is not shameful, but laziness is the real shame.
• Fukaranın tavuğu tek tek yumurtlar: Luck never smiles on the poor; the same amount of money brings more for the rich and less for the poor.
• Garibe bir selam bin altın değer: A small gesture of kindness, like greeting a stranger, can mean more than a thousand gold coins.
• Garip kuşun yuvasını Allah yapar: God helps the poor and helpless by providing them with support.
• Geç olsun da güç olmasın: It’s better for something to happen late than for it to not happen at all due to various obstacles.
• Gel demesi kolay ama git demesi güçtür: It’s easy to invite someone, but hard to ask them to leave once they are there.
• Gelen gideni aratır: Sometimes, the person who replaces someone you don’t like makes you long for the previous person.
• Gelene git denilmez: A guest who arrives spontaneously should not be turned away.
• Gelini ata bindirmişler “Ya nasip” demiş: Until something is certain, it should not be viewed as done.
• Gençliğin kıymeti ihtiyarlıkta bilinir: People realize the value of youth only when they are old.
• Gidilmeyen yer senin değildir: If you can’t go somewhere, it doesn’t benefit you to have that place or property.
• Gidip de gelmemek var, gelip de görmemek var: Someone going far might never return, and even if they do, the people or things they left behind might not be the same.
• Gönül bir sırça saraydır, kırılırsa yapılmaz: A person’s heart is fragile like glass; once broken, it’s hard to repair, so we should avoid hurting the feelings of others.
• Güneş balçıkla sıvanmaz: The truth cannot be hidden or changed by lies.
• Güneş girmeyen eve doktor girer: A house without sunlight will always be filled with illness.
• Hacı hacıyı Mekke’de, derviş dervişi tekkede bulur: People with similar goals and aims will eventually meet on the same path.
• Haddini bilmeyene bildirirler: Those who overstep their boundaries will be corrected by others in a harsh manner.
• Hak deyince akan sular durur: When justice is invoked, all arguments cease and everyone remains silent.
• Hak yerini bulur: Eventually, justice prevails, and wrongdoing is exposed.
• Hamama giren terler: Anyone who undertakes a task must be ready to face the challenges and costs associated with it.
• Hangi rüzgâr attı?: A phrase used to express annoyance when someone unexpectedly returns after a long absence.
• Hastaya bakmaktan hasta olması yeğdir: Caring for a severely ill person can be so exhausting that being sick oneself might seem easier.
• Hastaya döşek sorulmaz: You don’t ask someone who is in obvious need of something whether they require it.
• Hatasız kul olmaz: Everyone makes mistakes, no matter how careful they are.
• Hekimden sorma, çekenden sor: Only those who experience a difficulty truly understand its challenges.
• Her ağacın meyvesi olmaz: Not everything or everyone is as fruitful as it may seem from the outside.
• Her ağaçtan kaşık olmaz: You cannot use just anyone for tasks requiring special skills.
• Her gün baklava börek yense bıkılır: Doing the same thing every day can lead to boredom.
• Her horoz kendi çöplüğünde öter: Everyone has their own circle where they hold influence and their words matter.
• Her işte bir hayır vardır: Every situation has a silver lining; don’t be too quick to judge.
• Her kaşığın kısmeti bir olmaz: Everyone’s luck and fortune are different.
• Her kuşun eti yenmez: Not everyone succumbs to oppression; some will resist.
• Her yiğidin bir yoğurt yiyişi vardır: Everyone has their own way of working or doing things.
• Herkes aklını pazara çıkarmış, yine kendi aklını almış: People tend to think their own ideas are superior to others.
• Herkes bildiğini okur: People often act according to their own beliefs, regardless of what others say.
• Herkes gider Mersin’e, biz gideriz tersine: People cannot see their own faults but often criticize others.
• Irak yerin haberini kervan getirir: A caravan or intermediary brings news from places we cannot reach.
• İşığını akşamdan önce yakan sabaha çırasına yağ bulamaz: Those who spend excessively when it is unnecessary may not have money to spend when it is needed.
• Irmak kenarında çeşme yapılmaz: It is not wise to add something inferior to an already existing resource that everyone can benefit from. Such efforts are futile.
• Islanmışın yağmurdan pervası yoktur: A person who has already suffered harm will not fear something that can cause the same harm again.
• İbadet de gizli, kabahat de: Good deeds should not be for show, and faults should not be made public.
• İki aslan bir posta sığmaz: There cannot be two rulers in one country.
• İki at bir kazığa bağlanmaz: Two people with separate thoughts and personalities cannot live together or work together.
• İki deliye bir uslu koymuşlar: There must be a wise person to mediate between two who cannot get along or are fighting.
• İki kaptan bir gemiyi batırır: Two people cannot run a business together successfully.
• İki el, bir baş için: Only those who can support themselves are in no position to help others.
• İki kere iki dört eder: So obvious that there can be no doubt about it.
• İki ölç bir biç: When doing something, one should carefully consider the details and outcomes.
• İki testi tokuşunca biri elbet kırılır: When two people fight, one will inevitably lose and suffer.
• İnsan ayaktan, at tırnaktan kapar: Many diseases are caused by humans through their feet and by animals through their hooves.
• İnsan beşer, kuldur şaşar: People sometimes make mistakes and misunderstand things, and this should be accepted.
• İnsan çeşit çeşit, yer damar damar: Just as different parts of the land have different qualities, people also have various characteristics.
• İnsan doğduğu yerde değil, doyduğu yerde: A person settles in the place where they make a living, not the place where they were born.
• İnsan gönlünün artığını söyler: People reveal their true feelings when they joke or speak casually.
• İnsan kıymetini insan bilir: Only those who understand a person well can truly appreciate their value.
• İnsan konuşa konuşa, hayvan koklaşa koklaşa: People understand each other better by talking, just as animals communicate through smells.
• İnsan sözünden, hayvan yularından tutulur: Just as a horse cannot change direction once its reins are held, a person cannot stray from their words.
• İnsan yedisinde ne ise yetmişinde de odur: A person's nature or traits formed in childhood remain unchanged even in old age.
• İnsanın alacası içinde, hayvanın alacası dışınadır: The nature of an animal is evident in its outward appearance, but a person's thoughts and intentions are not visible on the surface.
• İp inceldiği yerden kopar: A situation will collapse from its weakest point.
• İstediğini söyleyen, istemediğini işitir: If you insult or speak harshly to someone, you should expect a harsh response.
• İsteyenin bir yüzü, vermeyenin iki yüzü kara: It is shameful to ask for something, but it is even more shameful not to fulfill that request.
• İş insanın aynasıdır: A person’s character can be understood from their actions and work.
• İş olacağına varır: If something is meant to happen, it will happen no matter what is done to prevent it.
• İşine hor bakan boynuna torba takar: A person who looks down on their work will end up poor, and poverty can lead to begging.
• İşini kış tut da yaz çıkarsa bahtına: Prepare for difficulties in the work you undertake so that you are not disappointed when challenges arise, and be glad when things go well.
• İşleyen demir ışıldar, pas tutmaz: A person who stays active and works will improve and be productive, while someone who is idle loses their ability to function.
• İyi olacak hastanın hekim ayağına gelir: When fate wants a bad situation to turn into a good one, the right person will come to solve it.
• İyiliğe iyilik her kişinin kârı, kötülüğe iyilik er kişinin kârı: Anyone can do good in response to good, but the real merit is in doing good in response to evil.
• İyilik eden iyilik bulur: A person who does good will eventually receive good in return.
• İyilik et denize at, balık bilmezse Halik bilir: Do good without expecting anything in return; if no one else notices, God will.
• İyilik iki baştan olur: For two people to get along well, both must contribute to the relationship's harmony.
• Kabahat samur kürk olsa, kimse sırtına almaz: No one wants to accept or acknowledge their faults, even if they are disguised as something else.
• Kabak tadı vermek: To become tiresome, to begin to lose interest due to repetition.
• Kabuğuna çekilmek: To retreat into oneself, cut off from the outside world, and refuse contact with others.
• Kaçanı kovmazlar, yıkılanı vurmazlar: It is not honorable to pursue someone who is fleeing or to strike someone who is already defeated.
• Kaçanın anası ağlamamış: The one who escapes from danger is fortunate and comes out ahead.
• Kadı anlatışa göre fetva verir: A person who is wrong often presents the situation in a way that makes them seem right.
• Kalaylı bakır küflenmez: A person or action that is known for its integrity cannot be tarnished.
• Kar ne kadar çok yağsa yaza kalmaz: Things that grow in an ideal environment do not last once conditions change.
• Kar susuzluk kandırmaz: True needs cannot be met with distractions or substitutes.
• Karga kekliği taklit edeyim derken kendi yürüyüşünü şaşırmış: A person who tries to imitate another without understanding will end up failing and losing their own way.
• Katranı kaynatsan olur mu şeker?: A person may try to change their appearance or behavior, but their true nature remains the same.
• Kavgada kılıç ödün vermez: One must not give their defense weapon to someone else, as it would leave them vulnerable to defeat.
• Kaza geliyorum demez: Accidents happen unexpectedly, without warning.
• Keçi nereye çıkarsa oğlağı da oraya çıkar: The path followed by the elders becomes a model for the younger ones.
• Kedinin boynuna ciğer asılmaz: One should not entrust something to someone who will misuse it or take advantage of it.
• Kedinin usluluğu sıçan görünceye kadar: Outspoken people may remain calm until a situation arises that triggers their reaction.
• Kediyi sıkıştırırsan üstüne atılır: If you corner someone, they may turn against you.
• Kır atın yanında duran ya huyundan ya suyundan: A person is influenced by those they associate with.
• Kırkından sonra saza başlayan kıyamette çalar: Someone who starts learning something after getting older may not have enough time to succeed.
• Kısmet gökten zembille inmez: Luck doesn't come without effort.
• Kısmet ise gelir Hint’ten, kısmet değilse ne gelir elden?: If something is destined for you, it will come, if not, nothing can be done about it.
• Kızım sana söylüyorum, gelinim sen anla: A phrase used when giving a hint or indirect warning to someone.
• Kimi köprü bulamaz geçmeye, kimi su bulamaz içmeye: This phrase highlights the disparities in people's fortunes.
• Kimse bilmez kim kazana kim yiye: Sometimes, people who haven't earned something end up taking it from those who worked for it.
• Kişi arkadaşından bellidir: A person's character can be known by looking at their friends.
• Kişi ne yaparsa kendine yapar: What you do to others will eventually come back to you.
• Kişi refikinden azar: A bad friend leads you down the wrong path.
• Kişinin kendine ettiğini kimse edemez: Sometimes a person makes mistakes and gets themselves into trouble in ways no one else could.
• Komşu ekmeği komşuya borçtur: If a neighbor offers something, you should reciprocate with something of your own.
• Komşu komşunun külüne muhtaçtır: Neighbors are always dependent on each other for even the smallest things.
• Komşunu iki inekli iste ki kendin bir inekli olasın: Want good fortune for others so that it may come to you as well.
• Komşunun tavuğu komşuya kaz görünür: Others' possessions always seem more valuable than your own.
• Kork Allah’tan korkmayandan: Someone who doesn't fear God is capable of doing anything.
• Kork aprilin beşinden öküzü ayırır eşinden: The weather in early April is so cold that even oxen get separated from each other.
• Korku dağları bekler: Fear is present everywhere.
• Korkunun ecele faydası yoktur: Fear cannot prevent what is destined to happen.
• Kör görmez sezer: A person with no knowledge of a subject can still have an intuition about it.
• Körler memleketinde şaşılar padişah olur: In a community where no one has knowledge, even a little knowledge makes someone a leader.
• Kötü komşu insanı hacet sahibi eder: A bad neighbor forces you to seek alternatives for things you would otherwise borrow.
• Kuş, kanadına kira istemez: One does not expect compensation for what they do for themselves.
• Laf lafı açar: A conversation naturally leads from one topic to another.
• Laf torbaya girmez: A word once spoken cannot be kept secret.
• Lâfla peynir gemisi yürümez: Saying something and actually doing it are two different things.
• Lokma çiğnemeden yutulmaz: No success comes without effort.
• Lokma karın doyurmaz, şefaat artırır: A gift may not fill the stomach, but it strengthens relationships.
• Mahkeme kadıya mülk değil: No one stays in a public position forever.
• Mal adama hem dost hem düşmandır: Wealth can both benefit and harm a person.
• Mal bulmuş mağribi gibi: To be extremely joyful and excited after gaining something.
• Mal canı kazanmaz, can malı kazanır: One should not risk their health for wealth.
• Mal canın yongasıdır: People care deeply about their wealth, as they do about their life.
• Malın iyisi boğazdan geçer: Something that is valuable is enjoyed by consuming it.
• Mart ayı dert ayı: March's fluctuating weather makes people vulnerable to illness.
• Mart çıkmadıkça dert bitmez: Illnesses from winter last until March.
• Mart kapıdan baktırır, kazma kürek yaktırır: March's cold is harsh enough to make people burn everything for warmth.
• Maymun gözünü açtı: To have learned a lesson from a past event.
• Mızrak çuvala sığmaz: It's impossible to hide something that is too big or obvious.
• Mürekkebi kurumadan: Very shortly after something has been written.
• Nabzını yoklamak: To try to understand someone's feelings, intentions, or desires.
• Ne dağda bağım var ne çakaldan davam: I don't have a stake in any side, nor do I support anyone attacking it.
• Ne ekersen onu biçersin: You reap what you sow.
• Ne kokar ne bulaşır / Ne akar ne kokar: A person who doesn't do good or bad to others, remains neutral.
• Ne od var ne ocak: To be in poverty and misery.
• Ne şiş yansın ne kebap: To avoid offending either side or to protect both.
• Ne yârdan geçilir ne serden: A person cannot easily give up on themselves or their loved ones.
• Nefesine güvenen borazancıbaşı olur: Those who are confident in their abilities should take on big challenges.
• Nerede hareket, orada bereket: Where there is movement, there is prosperity.
• Ocağına incir dikmek: To ruin someone's home and life, causing chaos and destruction.
• Oğul balı: The income that a child earns, which benefits their parents.
• Okka her yerde dört yüz dirhem: A saying used to indicate the clarity and indisputability of a fact.
• Olacakla öleceğe çare bulunmaz: What is written in one's destiny cannot be avoided.
• Öküzün altında buzağı aramak: Trying to find a fault or excuse where there is none.
• Öküz öldü, ortaklık bozuldu: The bond between two people has been broken when the basis of their relationship is gone.
• Ölüm Allah’ın emri: Death is inevitable, everyone must die.
• Ölüm hak miras helal: Just as death is natural, the division of inheritance is also natural.
• Ölümle öç alınmaz: It is not humane to rejoice in the death of an enemy.
• Pabuç pahalı: The task is too dangerous or costly, like saying "the shoes are expensive" and backing out.
• Papaz her gün pilav yemez: One cannot fool someone with the same trick all the time.
• Para parayı çeker: Money attracts more money; wealth leads to more wealth.
• Para peşin, kırmızı meşin: Every task should be paid for immediately, without delay.
• Paranın yüzü sıcaktır: Money is tempting and cannot be easily refused.
• Parayı veren düdüğü çalar: Whoever pays gets to call the shots, or whoever has the money gets what they want.
• Perşembenin gelişi çarşambadan bellidir: The outcome of a situation is clear based on its current progress.
• Pilav yiyen kaşığını yanında taşır: If you want something, you should have the necessary tools or resources to obtain it.
• Pilavdan dönenin kaşığı kırılsın: One should strive and resist until the very end to achieve something beneficial.
• Sabah ola, hayrola: Things might improve by the morning, so let's wait until then.
• Sabahın köründe: Very early in the morning, before the day has fully started.
• Sabır acıdır, meyvesi tatlıdır: Patience is difficult, but it leads to sweet results.
• Sağ elinin verdiğini sol elin görmesin: Keep your good deeds secret, do not boast about them.
• Sağır sultan bile duydu: Everyone has heard about it, no one is unaware anymore.
• Sakalım yok ki sözüm dinlensin: Only the words of older, more experienced people are often listened to.
• Sakınılan göze çöp batar: The more you focus on avoiding something, the more likely it is to happen.
• Sakla samanı, gelir zamanı: Something that seems useless now may become necessary later.
• Sarımsak yemedim ki ağzım koksun: I haven't done anything wrong, so there's no reason to be guilty or worried.
• Sel gider, kum kalır: Temporary situations should not be relied upon.
• Selam verdik, borçlu çıktık: We showed a small gesture of goodwill, but they turned it into a bigger responsibility.
• Sen giderken ben geliyordum: I did this task before you, I was ahead of you.
• Seninki can da benimki patlıcan mı?: Your life is valuable, but mine isn’t? Everyone's life matters equally.
• Serçeden korkan darı ekmez: Those who fear risks won't accomplish anything significant.
• Sinek küçüktür ama mide bulandırır: Even something small can create a bad impression or disturbance.
• Son pişmanlık fayda vermez: Regret is useless once the deed is done.
• Sorma kişinin aslını sohbetinden bellidir: A person's character is revealed through their conversation and actions.
• Su bulanmayınca durulmaz: A situation becomes clear and settled after much debate or turmoil.
• Su testisi su yolunda kırılır: A person encounters problems when pursuing their goals, but it is inevitable.
• Suyu havana koy, döv döv yine su: A person's inherent nature or characteristics cannot be changed no matter how hard you try.
• Suyu görünce teyemmüm bozulur: Once the necessity for something passes, it should be done properly from the start.
• Sütten ağzı yanan yoğurdu üfleyerek yer: A person who has been burned by something in the past will be more cautious in the future.
• Şeytanın dostluğu darağacına kadardır: A bad influence will lead you astray, but once you're at your lowest, they will abandon you.
• Tabak sevdiği deriyi taştan taşa çalar: Sometimes tough love is for a person's own good.
• Tarlada izi olmayanın harmanda sözü olmaz: Those who do not contribute to the work have no right to speak about the results.
• Taş attın da kolun mu yoruldu?: You gained something effortlessly, without any hard work.
• Taş yerinde ağırdır: Everything and everyone has its place, where it holds value and importance.
• Taşı sıksa suyunu çıkarır: A strong person can overcome any obstacle with determination.
• Taşıma su ile değirmen dönmez: Small efforts from others cannot sustain a large task or project on their own.
• Tatlı dil yılanı deliğinden çıkarır: A kind and gentle approach can change someone's stubbornness.
• Tavşan dağa küsmüş, dağın haberi olmamış: A minor issue to one person means nothing to the person or thing being complained about.
• Tavuğun sadakası bir yumurta: People who don't have much to offer can only give small contributions.
• Tekerlek kırıldıktan sonra yol gösteren çok olur: Many people give advice after the bad outcome has already occurred; those who offer wisdom after a situation has turned out badly.
• Tekkeyi bekleyen çorbayı içer: One must endure certain hardships to obtain something.
• Tembele iş buyur, sana akıl öğretsin: This saying refers to those who, instead of offering help, simply give advice when asked to assist in a task.
• Terzi kendi söküğünü dikemez: People can't do for themselves what they do for others.
• Teşbihte hata olmaz: A harsh or exaggerated metaphor used for more impactful expression isn't considered disrespectful; one shouldn't take offense.
• Tilkinin dönüp dolaşıp geleceği yer kürkçü dükkânıdır: No matter where a person goes or what they do, they will always return to their origins or their place of attachment.
• Tok açın hâlinden bilmez: A person who is wealthy cannot understand the struggles of someone who is poor.
• Ucuz alan, pahalı alır: Cheap products wear out quickly, and in the end, you end up paying more for them.
• Ucuz etin yahnisi yavan olur: Things that are cheap tend to be of poor quality.
• Ucuzdur vardır illeti, pahalıdır vardır hikmeti: One should not be drawn to cheap things, nor fear expensive ones, as both have their own pros and cons.
• Ununu elemiş, eleğini asmış: Refers to someone who has accomplished everything they set out to do and now has nothing significant left to achieve in life.
• Ummadığın taş baş yarar: Small or seemingly insignificant things can sometimes have great effects.
• Uyuyan yılanın kuyruğuna basma: Don't provoke someone who is harmless, as doing so can turn them into an adversary.
• Üçe beşe bakmamak: Not being concerned with small price differences when buying or selling.
• Üzüm üzüme baka baka kararır: People who are constantly around each other influence each other's habits and characteristics.
• Vakitsiz öten horozun başını keserler: Words should be said at the right time and place; untimely remarks can cause harm.
• Yanlış hesap Bağdat’tan döner: A mistake, no matter how long it takes, can eventually be corrected.
• Yarası olan gocunur: A person who is at fault in a situation will become defensive when it’s pointed out.
• Yarım elma, gönül alma: A small gift can be enough to win someone's heart.
• Yaş kesen baş keser: The act of cutting down a tree is as severe as taking a life.
• Yavaş atın tekmesi yavuz olur: When a mild-mannered person gets angry, they may act excessively.
• Yel gibi gelen sel gibi gider: Money that comes easily will often be wasted just as quickly.
• Yeme de yanında yat: Something so delicious or enjoyable that it's beyond comparison.
• Yiğit meydanda belli olur: Talk is cheap; true skill and courage are shown in action.
• Yüz yüzden utanır: People can usually reconcile face-to-face much more easily than through indirect communication.
• Zahmetsiz rahmet olmaz: Good things don't come without effort or struggle.
• Zaman öldürmek: To waste time or spend it on unproductive activities.
• Zenginin malı züğürdün çenesini yorar: Talking too much about someone's wealth is unnecessary and inappropriate.
• Zorla güzellik olmaz: You can't make someone appreciate something they don't like.
• Zürefanın düşkünü, beyaz giyer kış günü: Someone who was once well-off, but has fallen from grace, may act inappropriately or do things others find strange.