- English translation
The joy was cut short, snatched away by a crow that flew off with it.
- Literal wording
A joy that was not completed: the crow took it and flew off.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying laments a happiness that never reached its completion. Something pleasant was underway or within reach, but before it could be fully enjoyed it was abruptly taken away, as if a crow had swooped down and carried it off. The crow serves simply as the thief, with no further symbolism.
The image stresses the suddenness of the loss and the helplessness of the one left behind. It voices disappointment and resignation over a joy cut short, without blaming anyone or offering advice. A closely related form opens with 'O', turning the same saying into an exclamation over the lost joy.
- When it is used
Suited to moments when good news collapses before it is fully enjoyed, such as a celebration called off or a gain suddenly reversed. It can be said ruefully by the person affected or sympathetically by onlookers. Avoid it where the outcome is still undecided.
Cite or copy proverb
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