Кабы знал, где упасть, так соломки бы подстелил
With accent marks:
Кабы́ знал, где упа́сть, так соло́мки бы подстели́л.
Translation:
If I knew where I would fall, I would lay some straw there.
Meaning:
You should not reproach yourself and others for the mistakes, erroneous actions, illogical decisions. People often have no idea what could happen to them in the next moment. If they knew, then he would have acted differently, "prepared some straw" so it is not so painful to fall.
Other Russian proverbs
-
Water wears away a stone.
-
Patience and labor will grind everything.
-
Some to the forest, some for firewood.
-
Одна голова хорошо, а две – лучше
One head is good, but two ones are better.
-
Как аукнется, так и откликнется
What goes around comes around.
-
Береги платье снову, а честь смолоду
Start taking care of the dress while it's new, and of your honor while you are young.
-
When I eat I am deaf and mute.
-
Бесплатный сыр только в мышеловке
Free cheese is only in a mousetrap.
If you appreciate our work, please consider donating today. Your support allows us to publish content more regularly, and to maintain this site and the whole Learn Russian 101 network.
You can support us by buying one of the offline packages, getting a premium subscription, or simply by choosing a donation option below.
Thank you, any help is much appreciated!
Subscribe and receive notifications about new Russian proverbs in your inbox
