Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-23
Meaning: Verified- English translation
Do not speak the ill-omened phrase; say instead, “a bowl of barley.”
- Literal wording
Instead of saying, “a she-wolf,” say, “a bowl of barley.”
- Meaning and lesson
In the proverb’s rural imagery, a hostile expression invoking ruin is contrasted with one that wishes fertility and abundance. The contrast concerns the force of the words, not a neutral animal reference.
It advises replacing ill-omened or harmful words with favorable ones, and presents optimism and good speech as habits worth cultivating beyond the agricultural situation.
- When it is used
Used when discouraging ominous or harmful wording and urging a more hopeful way of speaking, especially in reference to a field or other prospect whose outcome is hoped to be good.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Do not speak the ill-omened phrase; say instead, “a bowl of barley.”