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
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Что имеем – не храним, а потерявши – плачем
We don't appreciate what we have but we cry when we lose it.
-
When the job is done, you can go for a walk.
-
Лучше синица в руках, чем журавль в небе
A titmouse in hands is better than a crane in the sky.
-
The beauty of a debt is its payment
-
The one who walks will go through.
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With a darling, even a hut is a paradise.
-
You can't hide an awl in a bag.
-
Заставь дурака богу молиться – он и лоб расшибёт
Make a fool pray to God - he will break his forehead.
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