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These Afrikaans (Afrikaans) proverbs speak to kin, marriage, parenting and the home. Here are 4 of them, each with its literal translation and a clear explanation of its meaning, drawn from documented Afrikaans usage.
Soos die ou hoenders kraai, so piep die jonges.
Literally: “As the old hens crow, so the young ones cheep.”
Meaning: Children imitate their parents; the young follow the example set by their elders.
Die appel val nie ver van die boom nie.
Literally: “The apple does not fall far from the tree.”
Meaning: Children resemble their parents in character or behaviour.
Jou eie nes is altyd die beste.
Literally: “Your own nest is always the best.”
Meaning: Everyone regards their own (home, work, possessions) as the best — often an expression of natural, biased preference for what is one's own rather than a sentimental 'no place like home'.
Klein muisies het groot ore.
Literally: “Little mice have big ears.”
Meaning: Children overhear and notice more than adults realise; be careful what you say around them.