Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo: Meaning, Origin, and Usage
Learning Italian gives you access to fascinating proverbs. "Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo" is a profound saying: it speaks of wisdom, experience, and everyday reality. This proverb represents one of the most authentic ways to speak like a native Italian and enrich your advanced vocabulary. In this article, you will discover the meaning, the true origin, and many real examples of this expression.
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Table of Contents
- What does "Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo" mean?
- When and how to use "Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo"
- Real examples with "Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo"
- Other related expressions
- Conclusion
What does "Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo" mean?
- Those with practical experience in a field understand its rhythms and difficulties.
- Skills and knowledge are acquired only through real practice.
- It indicates wisdom derived from direct contact with reality.
- It is not enough to study or know in theory: real participation is needed.
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When and how to use "Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo"
- Used by adults, elders, but also heard among thoughtful young people.
- Common throughout Italy: more frequent in rural or family contexts.
- Perfect in conversations about work, choices, real life, everyday experiences.
- Reflective tone, sometimes didactic or serious; it can sound like a warning or encouragement.
- Often said to underline that experience is needed, not just theory.
More: Discover 'The fields speak with time' Meaning and Usage in Italian
Real examples with "Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo"
📍 Context (family)
- Person A: "Vorrei aprire un orto… sembra facile."
- Person B: "Ricorda, chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo."
📍 Context (work)
- Person A: "Il nuovo collega pensa di sapere già tutto."
- Person B: "Vedrai… chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo."
📍 Context (social)
- Person A: "Fare l’agricoltore oggi richiede molta pazienza."
- Person B: "Esatto, chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo."
📍 Context (friendship)
- Person A: "Hai imparato a muoverti in città in fretta!"
- Person B: "Serve pratica, sai… chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo."
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Other related expressions
| Related Expression | Brief Meaning | Short Example in Italian |
|---|---|---|
| Non si nasce imparati | No one is born knowing everything | "È normale sbagliare, non si nasce imparati." |
| L’esperienza è maestra | Only experience teaches | "L’esperienza è maestra, fidati." |
| Nessuno nasce contadino | It takes time to learn | "Calma, nessuno nasce contadino." |
| Imparare sul campo | Understand by doing in real life | "Si impara solo sul campo." |
| Chi semina raccoglie | You get results through work | "Studia: chi semina raccoglie." |
Conclusion
"Chi lavora con la terra conosce il tempo" reminds us that only practical experience truly teaches us. Try using this expression in your conversations! Do you have a story to share? Tell it in the comments below!
For an explanation about the difference between theory and practice in the Italian language, also visit our article on how to use passato prossimo and imperfetto.