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Proverbs Archive

Browse the full collection of Haitian Creole proverbs. Filter by theme, search by keyword, and discover the wisdom of generations.

48 proverbs found

🏠Family
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Pitit tig se tig.

The child of a tiger is a tiger.

Children take after their parents — traits, behaviors, and values are passed down.

🏠Family
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Se grès kochon ki kwit kochon.

It's the pig's own grease that cooks it.

Your own resources — or your own family — are what sustain you.

🏠Family
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Fanmi se zanmi Bondye ba ou.

Family are the friends God gave you.

You don't choose your family, but they are a divine gift to be treasured.

🏠Family
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Ti chen gen fòs devan kay mèt li.

A small dog is brave in front of its master's house.

People feel strong and confident when they have their family's support behind them.

🏠Family
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Lave men, siye atè?

Wash your hands only to wipe them on the ground?

Don't invest effort into something only to ruin it — often said about raising children well.

⚒️Work
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Bourik travay, chwal galonnen.

The donkey works, the horse gallops.

One person does the hard labor while another gets the glory. A critique of unfair credit.

⚒️Work
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Piti piti, zwazo fè nich li.

Little by little, the bird builds its nest.

Patience and steady effort lead to great results.

⚒️Work
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Men anpil, chay pa lou.

Many hands make the load light.

Collaboration makes difficult tasks manageable.

⚒️Work
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Travay se libète.

Work is freedom.

Through honest work, one gains independence and dignity.

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