T-learning # Idiom
Speak Like a Native

Make hay while the sun shines

Choose the correct definition a, b or c.

a) It’s great to procrastinate

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

b) It’s a good time for a nap

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

c) Make the most of every opportunity

Well done ! That’s the right answer.

If there is something to be done, you should make hay while the sun shines when the situation allows you to do so. It means that you should take advantage of an opportunity while it is still there. Do not procrastinate.

French translation

battre le fer tant qu’il est chaud ; prendre la balle au bond

How NOT to translate : *faire du foin quand il fait beau
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Examples in context

‘Global bicycle supply affected by pre-summer sales spike
It’s safe to say that the global bicycle supply and demand balance is definitely tilted heavily towards the latter at the present time. As the world gets to grips with a new reality, transport habits are changing naturally and sometimes with firm encouragement from Government. The situation is unprecedented and, while not the circumstances the cycling industry would have chosen to see a boom, many are making hay while the sun shines.

To meet the demand head on, the supply chain has had to get moving again quickly, though for the most part the horse has already bolted and new suppliers have been sought while production lines play catch up.’

Cycling Industry News, 8 June 2020

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‘Why schools should be open all summer in Britain
The risks to children from Covid-19 are tiny at the moment. Teachers should make hay while the sun shines. (…) There is now a wealth of data available from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and others which show the careful opening of schools is a minor risk in the greater scheme of things.

The Telegraph, 22 May 2020

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Everyday usage

 Paul : ’Hm, I will get the dog out.’
 John : ’Good idea Paul, make hay while the sun shines !

 Mandy : ’During the lockdown Alice started practising English.’
 Julian : ’She did right, you’d better make hay while the sun shines.’


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