an army marches on its stomach
Native recording
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- 1 an army marches on its stomach、people need food before they can perform well
This Thai proverb means that people need food and basic support before they can work, study, fight, or perform well. It is similar in idea to “an army marches on its stomach.”
an army marches on its stomach、people need food before they can perform well
A proverb saying that people or teams need food and basic supplies before they can function effectively.
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เตรียมอาหารไว้ด้วยนะ กองทัพต้องเดินด้วยท้อง triam aahǎan wáy dûay ná kɔɔŋ tháp tɔ̂ŋ dəən dûay thɔ́ɔŋ Prepare some food too. People need to eat before they can keep going. เตรียมอาหารไว้ด้วยนะ กองทัพต้องเดินด้วยท้อง details
Learning notes
Explanation
Literally, it means “an army must move by its stomach.” Although it contains the word “army,” it is commonly used more broadly for work, study, meetings, trips, events, and team activities. The point is that motivation alone is not enough; people need food, energy, and basic preparation. It can sound mildly humorous or proverbial in everyday speech.
Usage
It is used when encouraging people to eat before a long task, meeting, trip, or event, or when explaining that a team needs food and supplies in order to keep working effectively.
Caution
Do not use it just to say “I’m hungry”; หิว or กินข้าวก่อน is more natural for that. This is a proverb, so in casual conversation it can sound a little dramatic or playful.