Chinese proverbs are known for their deep wisdom and simplicity, and many focus on wealth, money, and financial responsibility. These timeless sayings provide valuable lessons that are still relevant today, guiding us in saving, investing, and understanding the true nature of prosperity.
Here are some of the best Chinese proverbs about money, along with their modern-day financial interpretations.
Contents
- 1. “Time is money.” (时间就是金钱)
- 2. “A small leak will sink a great ship.” (千里之堤，溃于蚁穴)
- 3. “Dig the well before you are thirsty.” (未渴先掘井)
- 4. “Money can buy a house, but not a home.” (钱可以买房子，但买不到家)
- 5. “Wealth does not pass three generations.” (富不过三代)
- 6. “Do not climb a tree to catch a fish.” (缘木求鱼)
- 7. “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” (种树的最好时间是二十年前，其次是现在)
- 8. “Poverty makes a man change his ways.” (贫穷使人变通)
- 9. “A wise man does not spend all he has.” (聪明的人不会花光所有的钱)
- 10. “One who will not economize will have to agonize.” (不知节俭, 必受其难)
- Final Thoughts
1. “Time is money.” (时间就是金钱)
This phrase, famously used by Benjamin Franklin, actually has roots in Chinese philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of valuing time as much as money—because wasted time means lost opportunities.
Lesson: Time is a limited resource. Whether you’re working, investing, or starting a business, efficiency is key to financial success.
2. “A small leak will sink a great ship.” (千里之堤，溃于蚁穴)
A tiny crack in a dam can cause a flood, just as small, careless spending can lead to major financial problems.
Lesson: Watch out for minor, unnecessary expenses—like impulse purchases or subscriptions you don’t use. Over time, they can drain your savings.
3. “Dig the well before you are thirsty.” (未渴先掘井)
This proverb highlights the importance of preparation. If you wait until you’re thirsty to dig a well, it’s already too late.
Lesson: Build an emergency fund before you actually need it. Don’t wait for a financial crisis to start saving.
4. “Money can buy a house, but not a home.” (钱可以买房子，但买不到家)
This reminds us that wealth can purchase material goods, but it cannot replace love, happiness, or family connections.
Lesson: Money is a tool, not a goal. Use it wisely to create a fulfilling life, rather than chasing wealth for its own sake.
5. “Wealth does not pass three generations.” (富不过三代)
This saying warns that family wealth is often lost by the third generation due to mismanagement.
Lesson: Teach financial literacy to your children. Without financial education, even the greatest fortune can disappear quickly.
6. “Do not climb a tree to catch a fish.” (缘木求鱼)
This saying means that using the wrong approach to achieve a goal is pointless—like trying to catch a fish in a tree.
Lesson: Make smart financial decisions. Investing blindly or chasing get-rich-quick schemes rarely works.
7. “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” (种树的最好时间是二十年前，其次是现在)
This classic proverb applies to many aspects of life, especially investing and saving.
Lesson: If you haven’t started saving or investing yet, start today. The earlier, the better, but it’s never too late.
8. “Poverty makes a man change his ways.” (贫穷使人变通)
When people experience financial hardship, they often become more resourceful and innovative.
Lesson: Financial struggles can be a stepping stone to success. Use challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.
9. “A wise man does not spend all he has.” (聪明的人不会花光所有的钱)
Smart financial management means knowing how to save and invest, rather than spending recklessly.
Lesson: Live below your means. Financial security comes from saving and making your money work for you.
10. “One who will not economize will have to agonize.” (不知节俭, 必受其难)
If you don’t practice frugality, you will eventually struggle financially.
Lesson: Budgeting and wise spending are crucial for long-term financial stability.
Final Thoughts
Chinese proverbs about money offer timeless lessons on financial wisdom. Whether it’s saving diligently, investing wisely, or living within your means, these ancient sayings remind us that true wealth isn’t just about money—it’s about smart financial habits and a balanced life.
