Croatian, like any other language, is full of expressions and sayings that might puzzle non-native speakers. Idioms reflect cultural specifics and mindset and are an essential part of achieving fluency. Here are some traditional Croatian idioms, their meanings, and how they are used in everyday conversation.

Prodati nekoga za šaku kuna
This idiom translates to “sell someone for a handful of kuna” (kuna being the Croatian currency). It means to betray someone for personal gain or a small amount of money.
Iznerviran je što su ga prijatelji prodali za šaku kuna čim su vidjeli priliku.

Bolje vrabac u ruci, nego golub na grani
The English equivalent of this saying is “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” It emphasizes the value of having a sure thing compared to taking a risk for more.
Uložio bih u taj posao, ali već imam siguran posao ovdje. Bolje vrabac u ruci nego golub na grani.

Tko rano rani, dvije sreće grabi
Similar to the early bird catches the worm, this Croatian proverb means “He who wakes up early, catches two fortunes.” It implies that an early start leads to a more productive day and potential rewards.
Ona je svako jutro u teretani prije posla – tko rano rani, dvije sreće grabi.

Biti u sedam voda
To be in seven waters means to be very confused or uncertain. The phrase conveys an image of being dispersed or not in a state of clarity.
Nakon što je pročitala ugovor, bila je u sedam voda i nije znala što da radi.

Između kruha i pogače
Literally this idiom is “between bread and a loaf”, and it’s used for describing a situation where one is indecisive or unable to choose between two very similar options.
Želim studirati medicinu, ali i farmaciju. Stvarno sam između kruha i pogače.

Ni vrit ni mimo
Translating as “neither here nor there,” this saying denotes a situation or an opinion that is ambiguous, unclear, or non-committal.
Njegovi argumenti su bili ni vrit ni mimo; stvarno se nisam mogao složiti s njime ni o čemu.

Baciti koplje u trnje
“To throw a spear into the thorns” means to give up or not to compete anymore, especially when there is still a chance to win or achieve something.
On je imao velike šanse da dobije tu nagradu, ali iz nekog razloga je bacio koplje u trnje.

Zabiti glavu u pijesak
Borrowed from the similar English idiom “to bury one’s head in the sand,” it means to willfully ignore a problem or unpleasant situation, pretending it does not exist.
Ako ne priznaš pravi problem, onda samo zabijaš glavu u pijesak.

By learning these idioms, you’ll not only enhance your vocabulary but also gain insights into Croatian culture and the way Croatians express their thoughts and feelings. Use them to bring a local flavor to your conversations and show your deep appreciation for the Croatian language.