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Wer nicht kämpft, hat schon verloren
/veːɐ̯ nɪçt kɛmp͡ft hat ʃoːn fɛɐ̯ˈloːʁən/◆proverb
If you don't fight, you've already lost
In der Politik gilt: Wer nicht kämpft, hat schon verloren.
In politics, it's true: If you don't fight, you've already lost.
formal
A proverb emphasizing that inaction or passivity in the face of challenges or competition guarantees defeat. It suggests that one must actively engage to have any chance of success.
Im Geschäftsleben ist es wichtig, sich durchzusetzen, denn wer nicht kämpft, hat schon verloren.
In business, it's important to assert yourself, because if you don't fight, you've already lost.
Die Gewerkschaft warnte: Wer nicht kämpft, hat schon verloren, wenn es um Arbeitsrechte geht.
The union warned: If you don't fight, you've already lost when it comes to workers' rights.
This proverb is often used in competitive or adversarial contexts, such as business, politics, or social activism, to motivate action.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Contextual Use
This proverb is best used in situations where effort and persistence are required to overcome obstacles or achieve goals. It is less appropriate in contexts where passive or non-confrontational approaches are valued.
Gold Rule
Motivational Use
Use this proverb to inspire action or to highlight the consequences of inaction. It is particularly effective in competitive or high-stakes environments.
Word Origin
The exact origin of this proverb is unclear, but it reflects a common cultural attitude in German-speaking regions that emphasizes the importance of active engagement in competition or conflict.
Usage Notes
This proverb is often used to encourage perseverance and effort, particularly in situations where success is not guaranteed but requires active participation. It can be seen as a call to action or a warning against complacency.
Word Breakdown
Wer nicht kämpft
Those who do not fight
phrasehat schon verloren
have already lost
phraseDeutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch