The Dutch proverb “Als de wijn is in de man, is de wijsheid in de kan” translates to “When the wine is in, the wisdom is out.” This saying conveys the idea that when a person becomes intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol, their ability to think rationally and make wise decisions diminishes.

Origin: The origin of this proverb can be traced back to the Dutch Golden Age, a period in the 17th century when the Netherlands experienced a flourishing of culture, trade, and prosperity. During this time, alcohol consumption was common among people from all walks of life, and excessive drinking often led to impaired judgment and behavior.

Meaning: The proverb highlights the negative effects of alcohol on cognitive function and decision-making. It suggests that when individuals indulge in excessive drinking, their rationality and wisdom are compromised, leading them to act impulsively or make poor choices. Essentially, it warns against the dangers of intoxication and encourages moderation in alcohol consumption.

Examples in Conversation:

1. Friend 1: “Did you hear about John’s behavior at the party last night?” Friend 2: “Yes, he had too much to drink, and he ended up saying some embarrassing things. You know what they say, ‘Als de wijn is in de man, is de wijsheid in de kan.'”
2. Parent: “I trust you to have fun at the party tonight, but remember to drink responsibly. You know the saying, ‘Als de wijn is in de man, is de wijsheid in de kan.'”
3. Colleague: “I’m not sure why Tom decided to quit his job after that office party. He seemed fine during the day.” Manager: “Well, sometimes people do things they regret when they’ve been drinking. ‘Als de wijn is in de man, is de wijsheid in de kan.'”

This proverb serves as a reminder to exercise caution and moderation when consuming alcohol, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clarity of mind and making sound decisions even in social settings. It underscores the age-old wisdom that excessive indulgence can cloud judgment and lead to regrettable consequences.