- English translation
If someone who set off early has gotten ahead of you, don't lose heart: tuck up your clothes and run after them.
- Literal wording
If the early one has gotten past you, hitch up [your garments] and run.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying urges persistence when another person has gone ahead first. Falling behind is not treated as a reason to quit; quick, determined effort may still let the latecomer close the gap and catch up.
Its image is of hitching or rolling up one’s garments to run unhindered, not removing them, and stands for energetic action. The Arabic opening addresses a single woman, though this distinction is not visible in English. It favors practical urgency over discouragement when facing delay or rivalry.
- When it is used
Said to spur on someone who fears they are already behind in a task, opportunity, or contest. It recommends brisk effort and perseverance when catching up still seems possible, rather than despairing because another person started earlier.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: If someone who set off early has gotten ahead of you, don't lose heart: tuck up your clothes and run after them.