Plus on a d'argent, plus on est heureux

/plys ɔ̃ a d‿aʁʒɑ̃ plys ɔ̃ n‿ɛ t‿eʁø/◆proverb
Money doesn't guarantee happiness

Il croit que plus on a d'argent, plus on est heureux, mais c'est faux.

He believes that money buys happiness, but that's false.

◆ What It Really Means
The idea that money does not necessarily lead to happiness, and may even create new problems or desires.
Literal Meaning
The more money one has, the happier one is.
Literal Breakdown
Plus on a d'argentThe more money one has+plus on est heureuxthe happier one is
◇ Mental Image
A balance scale where money and happiness are weighed against each other, suggesting that they are not directly proportional.
◈ When to Use
A friend is complaining about their financial struggles, and you respond with this proverb to remind them that money isn't everything.
◉ Cultural Note
This proverb is rooted in the French cultural value of appreciating life's simple pleasures and not equating wealth with happiness.
informal

This proverb suggests that having more money does not necessarily lead to greater happiness, and may even create new problems or desires.

Elle a gagné à la loterie, mais elle n'est pas plus heureuse. C'est vrai que plus on a d'argent, plus on est heureux, mais ce n'est pas toujours le cas.

She won the lottery, but she's not happier. It's true that money can't buy happiness, but it's not always the case.

This proverb is often used to caution against the pursuit of wealth as a means to happiness.

Related Phrases

L'argent ne fait pas le bonheurproverb
Money doesn't buy happiness

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb reflects a French cultural attitude that values happiness beyond material wealth.

Gold Rule

Usage

Use this proverb to express skepticism about the idea that money can buy happiness.

Word Origin

This proverb is a traditional French saying that reflects a common cultural belief about the relationship between wealth and happiness.

Usage Notes

This proverb is often used in discussions about materialism, contentment, and the true sources of happiness.

Dictionnaire Français-Anglais