If you miss the first train, take…

Explore Arabic traditional proverbsReviewed 2026-10-23

Meaning: Verified

English translation: If you miss the first train, take another route.
Literal wording: If the bajur has passed you by, ride the Sa'idi train.

Meaning and lesson: The proverb advises against abandoning an aim merely because the earliest chance has been missed. A lost opening can still be followed by purposeful action that keeps the larger goal within reach.
It promotes adapting after a setback rather than remaining idle over what has passed. The emphasis is on pursuing a later available means; that alternative need not be identical to the original opportunity.
When it is used: Use it to encourage someone who has missed an initial opportunity or plan to seek a later option and continue toward the same result rather than giving up.

Community: rural speakers
Region: Egypt
Register: colloquial

Cite or copy proverb

PROVERB (ARABIC)
«إِنْ فَاتَكِ الْبَجُورْ اِرْكَبْ صِعِيدِي»
Literal translation: If the bajur has passed you by, ride the Sa'idi train.
Natural translation: If you miss the first train, take another route.
Meaning: The proverb advises against abandoning an aim merely because the earliest chance has been missed. A lost opening can still be followed by purposeful action that keeps the larger goal within reach.

It promotes adapting after a setback rather than remaining idle over what has passed. The emphasis is on pursuing a later available means; that alternative need not be identical to the original opportunity.
Used when: Use it to encourage someone who has missed an initial opportunity or plan to seek a later option and continue toward the same result rather than giving up.

Permanent link: https://proverbhub.com/proverb/if-you-miss-the-first-train-take-another-route
Review state: Verified
Last reviewed: 2026-10-23
ProverbHub editorial content is licensed CC BY 4.0.

How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.

Report an issue with this meaning

Meanings