Learning a new language often involves more than just mastering vocabulary and grammar rules. It also means diving into the rich tapestry of cultural expressions, idioms, and figurative language that locals use every day. Catalan, spoken in Catalonia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands, and some parts of France and Italy, is no exception. One of the most delightful aspects of learning Catalan is discovering its unique and often humorous figurative expressions. These phrases not only add color to the language but also offer invaluable insights into the Catalan way of thinking. Let’s explore some of the funniest and most intriguing figurative expressions in the Catalan language.

A Journey Through Catalan Figurative Expressions

1. “Anar com cagalló per sèquia” (To go like poop in a ditch)

This expression is used to describe someone or something moving very quickly, often uncontrollably. It’s as if the person or object is being swept away by a strong current. While it might sound a bit crude, it’s a vivid way to convey a sense of rapid, unstoppable motion.

2. “Fer-ne cinc cèntims” (To make five cents of it)

When someone says “fer-ne cinc cèntims,” they mean to give a brief summary or explanation of something. It’s like saying, “Let me give you the nickel version.” It’s a handy phrase when you want to ask someone to cut to the chase and provide only the essential details.

3. “No saber ni un borrall” (To not know even a speck)

This expression is used to describe complete ignorance about a subject. If someone “no sap ni un borrall,” they don’t know anything at all— not even a tiny bit. It’s equivalent to the English expression “not knowing the first thing about something.”

4. “Estar més content que un gínjol” (To be happier than a jínjol)

A “gínjol” is a small, sweet fruit, and this expression is used to describe someone who is extremely happy. It’s similar to the English phrase “to be as happy as a clam” but has a uniquely Catalan twist.

5. “Fer el préssec” (To make the peach)

This phrase is used when someone makes a fool of themselves. If you “fas el préssec,” it means you’ve done something silly or embarrassing. It’s the Catalan equivalent of “making a fool of oneself” or “putting one’s foot in one’s mouth.”

6. “Ser un tros de quòniam” (To be a piece of quòniam)

A “quòniam” is an old Catalan word for a foolish person. If someone is “un tros de quòniam,” they are considered to be very foolish or gullible. It’s a humorous way to describe someone who is not very bright.

7. “Ploure a bots i barrals” (To rain in jugs and barrels)

This colorful expression is used to describe heavy rainfall. It’s similar to the English phrase “raining cats and dogs,” but the imagery of jugs and barrels gives it a uniquely Catalan flavor.

8. “Tenir el cap ple de pardals” (To have a head full of sparrows)

When someone “té el cap ple de pardals,” it means they are daydreaming or not thinking clearly. It’s like saying someone has their head in the clouds, but with the whimsical image of sparrows flitting around inside their head.

Expressions Rooted in Catalan Culture

9. “Fer dissabte” (To make Saturday)

This phrase means to clean the house thoroughly, usually on a Saturday. It’s a reflection of the traditional Catalan custom of dedicating Saturdays to housecleaning. When you “fas dissabte,” you’re getting your home in order, much like a spring cleaning.

10. “Anar a Can Pistraus” (To go to Pistraus’ house)

This expression means to go to a place that doesn’t exist or to go very far away. It’s similar to the English phrase “to go to Timbuktu.” The word “Pistraus” is a playful invention, adding a humorous touch to the idea of going somewhere distant or imaginary.

11. “Ser figa-flor” (To be a flower-fig)

A “figa-flor” is a type of fig that ripens early in the season. When used figuratively, it means someone who is delicate or sensitive. It’s a charming way to describe someone who might be a bit fragile or easily affected by their surroundings.

12. “Anar-se’n a l’hort” (To go to the vegetable garden)

This phrase is a euphemism for dying, similar to the English expression “to kick the bucket.” It’s a gentle, somewhat poetic way to talk about someone’s passing, reflecting the rural, agricultural roots of Catalan culture.

Animal-Inspired Expressions

13. “Donar gat per llebre” (To give a cat for a hare)

This expression means to deceive someone, particularly in the context of a transaction or trade. It’s like saying “to pull the wool over someone’s eyes.” The imagery of substituting a less desirable cat for a more desirable hare adds a humorous twist to the idea of trickery.

14. “Ser un llop amb pell de xai” (To be a wolf in sheep’s clothing)

Much like the English equivalent, this phrase describes someone who appears harmless but is actually dangerous or deceitful. It’s a cautionary expression, warning people to be wary of those who might not be what they seem.

15. “Estar com una cabra” (To be like a goat)

If someone is “com una cabra,” it means they are acting crazy or eccentric. Goats are known for their unpredictable and sometimes wild behavior, making them the perfect animal to describe someone who’s a bit off-kilter.

16. “Ser com el cul i la merda” (To be like the butt and the poop)

This humorous, somewhat crude expression is used to describe two people who are inseparable or extremely close. It’s like saying “they’re like two peas in a pod,” but with a more colorful and earthy metaphor.

Expressions of Exasperation and Annoyance

17. “Estar fins als nassos” (To be up to the noses)

This phrase is used to express being fed up or having had enough of something. It’s similar to the English expression “to be up to here with something.” The imagery of being overwhelmed up to the nose adds a vivid sense of exasperation.

18. “Fotut com un sabatot” (Messed up like an old shoe)

When someone is “fotut com un sabatot,” it means they are in a bad situation or feeling down and out. The comparison to an old, worn-out shoe adds a touch of humor to the expression of misfortune.

19. “No fotre brot” (To not do a sprout)

This phrase means to do absolutely nothing, especially in terms of work or effort. It’s like saying “to not lift a finger.” The use of “brot” (sprout) adds a botanical twist to the idea of laziness or inactivity.

20. “Anar-se’n a fer punyetes” (To go make lace)

This is a polite way to tell someone to go away or leave you alone. It’s akin to saying “get lost” or “buzz off,” but with a more refined and somewhat old-fashioned touch.

Expressions Involving Food and Drink

21. “Estar com un bacallà” (To be like a codfish)

This expression describes someone who is stiff or unresponsive, similar to the English phrase “to be like a fish out of water.” The comparison to a dried, salted codfish adds a unique Catalan flavor to the idea of awkwardness or discomfort.

22. “Fer figa” (To make fig)

When something “fa figa,” it means it fails or breaks down. It’s like saying “to go kaput.” The use of “figa” (fig) adds a quirky twist to the concept of failure or malfunction.

23. “Ser més llarg que un dia sense pa” (To be longer than a day without bread)

This phrase is used to describe something that feels interminably long or tedious. It’s similar to the English expression “to be longer than a month of Sundays.” The mention of a day without bread highlights the Catalan cultural importance of bread as a daily staple.

24. “Fer-ne un bull” (To make a boil of it)

This expression means to exaggerate or make a big deal out of something. It’s like saying “to make a mountain out of a molehill.” The imagery of boiling something up adds a culinary twist to the idea of exaggeration.

Expressions of Love and Affection

25. “Estar penjat” (To be hung)

In Catalan, saying someone is “penjat” means they are head over heels in love. It’s like saying “to be hung up on someone” in English, but with a more dramatic image of being suspended or hanging.

26. “Ser la meitat de l’ou” (To be the half of the egg)

This expression is used to describe someone who is your perfect match or soulmate. It’s like saying “to be two halves of a whole.” The use of an egg as a metaphor adds a touch of tenderness and completeness to the concept of love.

27. “Fer el cor fort” (To make the heart strong)

When someone “fa el cor fort,” it means they are being brave or resilient, especially in matters of love. It’s like saying “to put on a brave face” or “to have a strong heart.” The focus on the heart underscores the emotional strength required in difficult situations.

Conclusion

The Catalan language is rich with figurative expressions that are as colorful and diverse as the culture itself. From humorous comparisons to vivid imagery, these phrases offer a unique window into the Catalan way of life and thinking. They not only enhance your vocabulary but also deepen your understanding of the cultural nuances that make Catalan such a vibrant and expressive language. So the next time you’re learning Catalan, try incorporating some of these funny figurative expressions into your conversations. Not only will you impress native speakers, but you’ll also add a touch of humor and flair to your linguistic repertoire.