English

Hermann von Kaulbach, Die Schüchterne (The Shy One, 19th–20th century)

Alternative forms

• shy bairns get noot

Proverb

shy bairns get nowt

1. (Geordie) If you're too shy, or don't ask, you will not get what you want.

   A' forgot te ask 'er fo' me money back!
   Wye, shy bairns get nowt.‎

Usage notes

The proverb is used widely in the North East of England, United Kingdom, to encourage children to speak up and not to be too shy. However, it may also be used to imply that an adult is too shy or unassertive.