Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund

/ˈmɔʁɡn̩ˌʃtʊnt hat ˈɡɔlt ɪm ˈmʊnt/proverb
early action brings success

Die Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund, also steh früh auf!

The early hour has gold in its mouth, so get up early!


What It Really Means
Early action is beneficial and leads to success.
Literal Meaning
The early morning hour has gold in its mouth.
Literal Breakdown
Morgenstundearly morning hour+hathas+Goldgold+im Mundin the mouth
Mental Image
A metaphorical image of the early morning hour as a person or entity with gold in its mouth, symbolizing the value and rewards of early action.
When to Use
A parent might say this to their child to encourage them to wake up early and start their day productively.
Cultural Note
This proverb reflects the cultural value placed on punctuality and early productivity in German-speaking societies.
informal

The idea that starting something early in the day or taking early action is advantageous and leads to success or better outcomes.

Wenn du früh mit deiner Arbeit beginnst, hast du mehr Zeit für andere Dinge.

If you start your work early, you have more time for other things.

This proverb emphasizes the value of early action and productivity.

Related Phrases

Der frühe Vogel fängt den Wurmproverb
The early bird catches the worm

Pro Tip

Usage Context

This proverb is often used to motivate someone to start tasks early in the day or to emphasize the benefits of early action.

Gold Rule

Literal vs. Figurative Meaning

The phrase is not meant to be taken literally; it is a metaphor for the value of early action.

Word Origin

The phrase originates from the idea that the early part of the day is the most valuable, as it is often the most productive and peaceful time. The 'gold in the mouth' metaphor suggests that early efforts yield rich rewards.

Usage Notes

This proverb is commonly used to encourage punctuality and early action, often in the context of work or study.

Word Breakdown

Morgenstund
early morning hour
root
+
Gold im Mund
gold in the mouth (metaphor for value)
metaphor
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