Norwegian Proverbs

Norwegian proverbs provide a unique window into the culture, values, and beliefs of Norway. They are often reflective of long-standing traditions and provide insight into traditional modes of thought. Many Norwegian proverbs are particularly focused on the themes of resourcefulness and thriftiness, as well as emphasizing the importance of community relationships. In addition, they often contain a deep wisdom that captures the essence of Norwegian life and values, which can be especially meaningful for those in the Scandinavian region.

Here are some Norwegian Proverbs:

A fair wind at our back is best.

The comparison halts.

Age does not always help against foolishness.

The best fruits hang highest.

A burnt child fears fire.

He who does no evil does a lot of good.

Patchwork is better than bare buttocks.

Everyone knows what to do with a bad wife except the one who has her.

The Billy-goat knows he has horns.

It’s hard to condemn others, being guilty yourself.

The less you know, the less you forget.

Good fortune is loaned, not owned.

Where age gets in, he will never get out again.

The lame runs if he has to.

The pardon may be more severe than the penalty.

Better ten hairs on the head than one in the soup.

If you bend the rights, they will break.

All weather is passing.

The day that is gone, you will not get one more time.

Don’t sell the hide until you’ve shot the bear.

There are at least two sides to a thing.

Even the best swimmer may sink.

The ancients were no fools.

From children and drunk people we get to hear the truth.

It is better to be a free man in a small house than a slave in a big one.

From a gruff word both harm and murder may ensue.

Better whole than mended well .

Forge while the iron is hot.

When you’re not given it, you don’t have to thank anyone either.

The best remedy against getting drunk is keeping sober.

All sense is not housed in one single head.

Another’s horse is always strong.

What’s good is often forgotten, what’s bad is often hidden.

Other years make other people.

Carve your good words in stone, the bad in snow.

In every woman there is a Queen.

Speak to the Queen and the Queen will answer.

There is a knack to every handicraft.

The farmer himself the best, and his wife the next.

Better let ten guilty ones go free than judging an innocent man.

Everyone wants to hear praise, and nobody blame.

All don’t like the same thing; some like it cold, and some like it hot.

A blushing lie is better than the pale truth.

Getting a small part is better than a long quarrel.

Away is not to be at home.

Age is nothing to boast of; you get it for free.

Age is not like youth.

Injuries make one wise.

Too clean has no taste.

It’s better to remain with a little shame than to come home again with a great one.

Behind the clouds the sky is always blue.