Refrán (en. Saying)

/reˈfɾan/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
A popular expression that conveys a lesson or advice.
The proverb 'every cloud has a silver lining' teaches us to see the positive in difficulties.
El refrán 'no hay mal que por bien no venga' nos enseña a ver lo positivo en las dificultades.
A short and well-known phrase used in specific situations.
He used a proverb to explain his point of view in the discussion.
Utilizó un refrán para explicar su punto de vista en la discusión.
A saying that reflects the culture or popular wisdom of a community.
Proverbs are an important part of the folklore of each country.
Los refranes son una parte importante del folclore de cada país.

Etymology

Comes from the Latin 'referendum', related to the act of referring to something.

Common Phrases and Expressions

In bad weather, a good face
It means to maintain a positive attitude in difficult times.
A mal tiempo, buena cara
He who covers too much, squeezes little
It indicates that trying to do too much can lead to poor results.
El que mucho abarca, poco aprieta
Better late than never
It refers to the idea that it's better to do something late than to not do it at all.
Más vale tarde que nunca

Related Words

proverb
A popular saying that encompasses a teaching.
proverbio
maxim
A principle or rule that is considered valid.
máxima
aphorism
A short phrase that expresses a truth or reflection.
aforismo

Slang Meanings

It is used as a colloquial way to refer to wise advice.
He always says 'remember the proverb' when he's about to give me advice.
Siempre dice 'acuérdate del refrán' cuando está a punto de darme un consejo.
It can serve to dismiss a situation, such as 'that's just a proverb.'
When I told him not to worry, he replied that was just a proverb.
Cuando le dije que no me preocupara, me respondió que eso era solo un refrán.