«عَصْفُورْ فِي إِيدَكْ وَلَا كُرْكِي طَايِرْ»

The saying prefers a small sparrow actually held over a crane, a large prized game bird, still flying out of reach. Its structure means "this rather than that," not a plain negation: a secure, modest gain is worth more than an impressive prospect that may never be caught.

In practice, the saying advises a person not to abandon a small but certain benefit in the hope of obtaining something larger and uncertain. The bird already held can be enjoyed or used, while the crane still flying may escape. Its lesson is to value what is securely within reach.

Use it when someone is tempted to drop a modest, guaranteed gain for a bigger but uncertain prize, such as turning down a steady offer while hoping for a better one. It works as practical advice or a gentle warning against overreaching.