Dutch metaphors/idiom
#1
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Dutch metaphors/idiom
Being able to understand a smattering of the Dutch language, it is sometimes difficult to create the picture in the mind that is actually being used when framing such utterances. The English phrase ' Heard it on (through) the grapevine' refers to the telegraph poles and insulators dangling from the wires resembling grapes during the first world war. I can picture that in my mind, information transmitted via the telegraph communication system of the day. However, although I may understand the following metaphors / idiom, I cannot visualise what is being alluded to in the following:
'De kogel is door de kerk' > what kogel? why kerk?
'Maak je borst maar nat' > why een natte borst maken?
'Een hart onder de riem steken' why een hartje and why onder de riem?
'Slapen op twee oren' > why op twee oren, how?
This to name just a few, I am sure there are many more to come. Can any body clarify the etymology for me?
JS
'De kogel is door de kerk' > what kogel? why kerk?
'Maak je borst maar nat' > why een natte borst maken?
'Een hart onder de riem steken' why een hartje and why onder de riem?
'Slapen op twee oren' > why op twee oren, how?
This to name just a few, I am sure there are many more to come. Can any body clarify the etymology for me?
JS
Last edited by johnshuttle; Mar 29th 2018 at 11:08 am.
#2
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Location: Penang
Posts: 959
Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
I took the first expression as an example and found this web page: https://onzetaal.nl/taaladvies/de-ko...-door-de-kerk/
Are you able to read this yourself? Or would you need assistance in understanding what is written there?
I guess that that same website also has explanations for the other expressions.
Are you able to read this yourself? Or would you need assistance in understanding what is written there?
I guess that that same website also has explanations for the other expressions.
#3
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Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
Thanks Sushi, I can read it, so I'll have a butcher's.
#4
Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
I can recommend 'Elke nadeel heeft zijn voordeel By Ton den Boon....Van Dale pres Utrecht -Antwerp
As I understand it The bullet is through the church... means The decision is made.. no going back. Probable from military experience
Make your chest wet.. Cry your eyes out... It will make no difference etc etc
A heart under you belt.. Extra support for you in a time of need
As I understand it The bullet is through the church... means The decision is made.. no going back. Probable from military experience
Make your chest wet.. Cry your eyes out... It will make no difference etc etc
A heart under you belt.. Extra support for you in a time of need
#5
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Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
Je snor drukken? WTF did that come from and how can one push one's mustache?
#7
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Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
Je snor drukken – DeTaalBlog
https://onzetaal.nl/taaladvies/dat-zit-wel-snor
Apparently was it from an era where many men would have a moustache or beard, making them easily recognisable. By hiding your moustache (covering with your hand) you would make it more difficult to be recognised/identified.
#8
Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
Originally Posted by SushiFan
From an era where many men would have a moustache or beard, making them easily recognisable.
#10
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Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
As a in the Uk living Dutch person I'll let you in to a secret: We literally have no idea either for most of these!
#11
Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
I agree that mosr Dutchies haven’t got a clue where they originate from and their meaning (not origin) is taught at school from an early age. For me personally, I always have to chuckle when I hear somebody say ‘it’s raining cats and dogs’ or ‘she’ll be apples’. As long as you know how and when to use them, if not, no biggie, just laugh it off.
#13
Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
She’ll be apples, everything will be ok, she can handle it, my aunt who lives in Melbourne uses it all the time. If you are lookaing at more explanations about Dutch idiom by the way, or just phrases that don’t make sense, just let me know. I’ll be glad to help you out hey. Cheers.
#14
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Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
Oh right, Antipodean Anglo, that's why..It'll be apples and spice in the billabong with a few beauts in ya tucker bag and a smoko in the ute .then Tum.
#15
Re: Dutch metaphors/idiom
No no no, if you say 'it'll be apples' in Australia people will think you're a drongo It has to be SHE'LL be apples.