Strike while the iron is hot.
Ferrum cudendum est, dum candet in igne.
Meaning and origin
The Latin proverb "Ferrum cudendum est, dum candet in igne" translates to "Iron must be forged while it is hot." This proverb emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of opportunities when they arise and acting swiftly before the moment passes. It originated from the practice of blacksmithing, where iron is most malleable and easier to shape when it is heated to a high temperature. The proverb is often used to encourage people to seize the moment and not delay important actions or decisions.
Proverbs on a similar topic
- There is a time for all things.
- First come, first served.
- Better late than never.
- Time is money.
- All in good time.
- Now is now and then was then.
- Christmas comes but once a year.
- Time and tide wait for no man.
- Let bygones be bygones.
- After death the doctor.
- It is easy to be Wise after the event.
- It is no use crying over spilt milk.
- What is done cannot be undone.
- Time is the best healer.
- After a storm comes a calm.
- Every day is not Sunday.
- It is too late to shut the stable door after the horse has bolted.
- It is too late to call back yesterday.
- Marry your son when you Will, your daughter when you can.
- Times change and we with them.
- A wonder lasts but nine days.
- Must I tell you a tale and find your ears too?
Related proverbs
Similar proverbs in the same language
English
- Make hay while the sun shines.
- Hoist your sail when the wind is fair.
Similar proverbs in another language
Latin
- Ferrum cudendum est, dum candet in igne. The iron must be forged while it glows in the fire.
- Utendum est animis, dum spe calent. We must use our hearts while they are warmed by hope.
- Cudendum ferrum, quando micat igne calente. The iron must be forged when it flashes with a hot fire.
French
- Il faut battre le fer pendant qu'il est chaud. Strike while the iron is hot.
- Servez chaud. Serve hot.
- Il faut saisir l'occasion aux cheveux. It's time to seize the opportunity.
German
- Man muß das Eisen schmieden, solange es heiß ist. You have to strike while the iron is hot.
- Schmiede das Eisen, solange es heiß ist. Forge the iron while it is hot.
Czech
- Kuj železo, dokud je žhavé. Strike while the iron is hot.
- Horké železo nejlépe se kuje. Hot iron is best forged.
- Kuj železo, dokud je horké. Strike while the iron is hot.
- Dokud železo žhavé, kuj. While the iron is hot, forge.
- Dokud železo řeřavé, kuj. While the iron is cutting, forge.