Делу время, потехе час
With accent marks:
Де́лу вре́мя, поте́хе час.
Translation:
Time for business, an hour for fun.
Meaning:
This is the expression of the Russian Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich (1629 - 1676) written by him in a book dedicated to falconry.
Meaning: most of the time shoud be dedicated to business (work) and duties, and less time - to entertainment.
It is usually said as a reminder to a person who, having fun, forgets about his duties.
Other Russian proverbs
-
Кабы знал, где упасть, так соломки бы подстелил
If I knew where I would fall, I would lay some straw there.
-
Your own shirt is closer to your body.
-
In a quiet whirlpool, demons live.
-
На Бога надейся, а сам не плошай
Put your trust in God, but don't make mistakes yourself
-
Better late than never.
-
Под лежачий камень вода не течёт
Water does not flow under a lying stone.
-
Patience and labor will grind everything.
-
Being a guest is good, but being at home is better.
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