Adversity makes a man wise, not rich.

The proverb contrasts two possible outcomes of hardship: a person may gain insight from difficulty without gaining money or possessions. Its emphasis is on what experience can teach, not on material reward.

It offers a way to value hard-won understanding while acknowledging that it does not pay the bills. The saying need not mean that every hardship teaches a lesson or that suffering is desirable.

Use it when reflecting on a setback that taught someone something valuable but left their finances no better off. It suits a thoughtful response to disappointment rather than a promise that hardship will lead to success.