Common Proverbs in Manitoba

Manitoba people speak English. Some sayings come from the farm and the long winter. They are short and practical.

If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes

• The weather changes fast on the prairies.
• A sunny morning can turn to snow by noon.
• People say it when the sky looks uncertain.
• It means do not worry. It will change soon.
• Everyone knows it is true.

Make hay while the sun shines

• Farmers cut hay only on dry days.
• The saying means do the work when the time is good.
• People use it for any job that cannot wait.
• Rain or snow can stop outdoor work for days.
• It is still heard on farms.

Cold enough to freeze the brass off a monkey

• It means the temperature is very low.
• Winter days can reach minus 30 or lower.
• People say it when they step outside and feel the bite.
• The exact words change, but the meaning stays the same.
• It is said with a smile.

You can’t get there from here

• Some roads are gravel or closed by snow.
• The saying means the trip will take longer than it looks.
• People say it when someone asks for directions in winter.
• Detours are common after a storm.
• It is a gentle warning.

A day late and a dollar short

• It means someone missed the chance.
• Farm work has short windows.
• The saying is used for any late arrival.
• People hear it at the elevator or the hall.
• It is not said to be cruel.

The early bird gets the worm

• Work starts at dawn on the farm.
• The saying means the person who starts first gets the best result.
• Children hear it before school and chores.
• It is older than Manitoba, but it still fits.
• Most families know it.