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Wer nicht trainiert, verliert

/veːɐ̯ nɪçt tʁaɪ̯ˈniːɐ̯t fɛɐ̯ˈliːɐ̯t/
proverb★Intermediate— use it or lose it◆proverb
◆ What It Really Means
The idea that consistent effort is necessary to maintain skills, fitness, or knowledge, otherwise they will deteriorate.
¶ Literal Meaning
Who does not train, loses.
Literal Breakdown
WerWho+nichtnot+trainierttrains+verliertloses
◇ Mental Image
The mental image of someone who stops training and consequently loses their abilities or fitness.
◈ When to Use
A coach telling their team that they need to keep practicing to stay competitive.
◉ Cultural Note
This proverb reflects the German cultural value of discipline and continuous improvement, especially in physical and intellectual pursuits.
informal

A proverb emphasizing that skills, fitness, or knowledge will deteriorate if not maintained through regular practice or training.

Wer nicht trainiert, verliert seine Sprachkenntnisse.

If you don't practice, you lose your language skills.

Im Sport gilt: Wer nicht trainiert, verliert an Leistung.

In sports, the rule is: If you don't train, you lose performance.

💡

This proverb is often used to motivate people to stay active or continue learning.

Synonyms

Related Phrases

Übung macht den Meisterproverb
Practice makes perfect
Wer rastet, der rostetproverb
A rolling stone gathers no moss

💡Pro Tip

Motivational Use

This proverb is often used to encourage people to stay committed to their goals, whether in sports, learning, or professional life.

⚡Gold Rule

Consistency is Key

The proverb underscores the importance of regular practice to maintain or improve skills and fitness.

📖Word Origin

Derived from the German understanding of the importance of consistent effort in maintaining skills or physical fitness.

📝Usage Notes

This proverb is commonly used in contexts related to fitness, education, and professional development.

Word Breakdown

Wer
who
pronoun
+
nicht
not
adverb
+
trainiert
trains
verb
+
verliert
loses
verb
Deutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch

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