How often do we encounter phrases that sound apt in one language environment, but in another only raise questions? For example, the well-known Russian saying “An old horse does not spoil the furrow.” How to translate it into Ukrainian to preserve the meaning and add a little flavor — tells WomanEL.
ContentLiteral translationUkrainian equivalentsCultural adaptation
Literal translation
The direct translation sounds like this: “An old horse does not spoil the furrow.” This is a clear and quite natural option, because it conveys both the content and imagery of the original. However, Ukrainian culture has its own colorful counterparts.
Ukrainian equivalents
Our native language is rich in its own idioms that can replace the original:
- “The old plowman will not spoil the field” – close to the original, but with a more Ukrainian flavor and in line with our agricultural tradition.
- “An old potter does not beat pots” – this proverb has a folk flavor and hints at skill, tested by time.
“An old horse will climb a steep hill” – the saying emphasizes the endurance and skill of experienced people.
Cultural adaptation
Ukrainians often resort to metaphors that emphasize natural phenomena or customs:
- “Experience does not rust” is short, concise, and to the point. Ideal for situations when you need to convince someone of the benefits of life lessons.
“Experience is like an old horseshoe: worn out, but it holds” – an authentic adaptation that hints that experience compensates for even certain age restrictions. - “A wise horse knows its job even without a whip” – a little more humor, a little more folk wisdom! After all, experienced people do everything perfectly even without unnecessary tips.
And for those who like to joke, there is this option – “An old horse does not spoil the furrow, but is in no hurry to level it either.” The phrase is suitable for situations when an experienced person works slowly, but qualitatively.
The Ukrainian language opens up wide opportunities for creative adaptation. The main thing is to preserve the spirit and essence of the original, adding a national flavor to it.
Previously, we talked about how to adapt the Russian phrase “With your eyes out – out of your heart” in the Ukrainian language environment.