- English translation
Asked when he reached the palace, he replies, “Yesterday afternoon.”
- Literal wording
“When did you go up to the palace?” He said, “Yesterday afternoon.”
- Meaning and lesson
The saying points to someone whose access to prosperity, favor, or elevated rank is very recent. The brief interval implied by the reply emphasizes that this person has not yet had time to become firmly established in that position.
It is used to mark the difference between newly gained standing and long-rooted distinction. The palace image frames the rise as an ascent, while the answer reduces its apparent permanence by placing it only a day before.
- When it is used
Use it when referring to a person who has only recently come into prosperity, favor, or high standing, especially to stress that their elevated position is still new rather than long established.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Asked when he reached the palace, he replies, “Yesterday afternoon.”