cuando el río suena, agua lleva
rumors often have truth behind themLa gente dice que el jefe va a renunciar; cuando el río suena, agua lleva.
People say the boss is going to resign; there's probably some truth to it.
This proverb suggests that if there is talk or rumors about something, there is likely some truth or substance behind it.
Escuché que van a cerrar la tienda; cuando el río suena, agua lleva.
I heard they're going to close the store; there's probably some truth to it.
Todos dicen que el proyecto está en problemas. Cuando el río suena, agua lleva.
Everyone says the project is in trouble. There's probably some truth to it.
This proverb is often used to validate rumors or gossip, implying that persistent talk usually has a basis in reality.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Context
This proverb is typically used when discussing rumors or signs of trouble, implying that there is likely some truth behind them.
Gold Rule
Literal vs. Figurative Meaning
The literal meaning refers to the sound of a river indicating the presence of water, but the figurative meaning is about the validity of rumors or signs.
Word Origin
The proverb originates from the observation that the sound of a river (suena) indicates the presence of water (agua), suggesting that visible or audible signs often indicate a deeper truth.
Usage Notes
This proverb is commonly used in informal contexts to suggest that rumors or signs of trouble are likely to be true. It is often used to encourage caution or to validate concerns.