Money
Deep
常将有日思无日，莫待无时思有时
cháng jiāng yǒu rì sī wú rì, mò dài wú shí sī yǒu shí
When you have plenty, think of the days of scarcity; don't wait until you have nothing to long for what you had.
Literal translation
Always when having days think of having-none days; do not wait until having-none time to think of having time.
What it means
This is a lesson in frugality and foresight. It advises peop...
This is a lesson in frugality and foresight. It advises people to save and plan for the future, rather than wasting resources and regretting later.
Cultural context
Rooted in China's agricultural history and periods of famine, this saying reflects a deep cultural respect for thrift and preparation.
When Chinese people say this
Someone might say this to a young person who spends their entire salary on luxury items, or to a family that refuses to save for emergencies.
Why Chinese people say this
Chinese culture values long-term security over short-term pleasure. This saying is used to instill discipline and prudence, especially in younger generations, to avoid future hardship.
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