Gut Ding will Weile haben. Literal translation: Good things take time. This proverb encapsulates the German belief that quality outcomes require patience and should not be rushed. It encourages taking the necessary time to make thoughtful decisions rather than succumbing to haste.
figures of speech
“Was gesagt ist, gilt.”
“What is said, counts.” Once something has been said and agreed upon, it stands and is valid.
“Vertrag ist Vertrag.
“A contract is a contract.” Agreements-whether formal or informal-are binding and must be honored as such.
“Schnaps ist Schnaps.”
Dienst ist Dienst und Schnaps ist Schnaps. Literal translation: “Work is work and schnapps is schnapps.” Meaning: There is a clear line between professional duties and personal matters. This saying underscores the German tendency to keep work and personal life (and feelings) separate, especially when giving or receiving feedback.
auf den Grund gehen
Den Dingen auf den Grund gehen. Translation: Get to the bottom of things. Meaning: Investigate thoroughly to understand the real reasons behind a conflict or problem.
present proof
Beweise auf den Tisch legen. Translation: Put the evidence on the table. Meaning: Present proof; don’t just make claims. This is a direct call for objective evidence in any discussion or dispute.
“Abgemacht ist abgemacht”
Agreed is agreed. Once an agreement has been reached, it is binding and does not require further confirmation.
“Ein Mann, ein Wort.”
“One Man. One word.” A person’s word is their bond; if someone says they will do something, it will be done without the need for follow-up.