Hungarian, a Finno-Ugric language spoken by approximately 13 million people worldwide, is renowned for its complex grammar and unique vocabulary. While it may seem daunting to learners at first, one of the most delightful aspects of Hungarian is its rich repository of figurative expressions. These expressions, often steeped in cultural nuances and humor, provide fascinating insights into Hungarian society and thought patterns. In this article, we will explore some of the funniest and most interesting figurative expressions in the Hungarian language, offering both literal translations and explanations of their meanings.
The Playful World of Hungarian Idioms
Hungarian idioms can be incredibly vivid and sometimes quite hilarious when translated directly into English. They reflect a wide range of human experiences and emotions, often with a touch of humor. Let’s dive into some of these colorful expressions.
“Lába kél” – “It gets legs”
One of the first idioms that might catch your attention is “Lába kél,” which literally translates to “It gets legs.” This expression is used to describe something that has disappeared or been stolen. Imagine your favorite pen or book suddenly growing legs and walking away—that’s the humorous imagery this idiom conjures up.
“Se füle, se farka” – “Neither ear, nor tail”
Another amusing idiom is “Se füle, se farka,” meaning “Neither ear, nor tail.” This phrase is used to describe something that is nonsensical or lacks coherence. It’s akin to saying something is a complete mess or doesn’t make any sense. The imagery of a creature without ears or a tail highlights the absurdity of the situation.
“Lóg az eső lába” – “The rain’s leg is hanging”
When Hungarians say “Lóg az eső lába,” or “The rain’s leg is hanging,” they’re talking about the imminent arrival of rain. The expression paints a picture of rain clouds hanging low in the sky, with the “legs” of the rain ready to drop down. It’s a whimsical way to describe the weather.
Animal-Inspired Expressions
Animals often find their way into Hungarian idioms, adding an extra layer of charm and humor. These expressions can be both endearing and enlightening.
“Bagoly mondja verébnek, hogy nagyfejű” – “The owl tells the sparrow it has a big head”
This idiom, “Bagoly mondja verébnek, hogy nagyfejű,” translates to “The owl tells the sparrow it has a big head.” It’s used to describe a situation where someone criticizes another person for a fault they themselves possess. It’s the Hungarian equivalent of “the pot calling the kettle black.” The image of an owl, with its relatively large head, accusing a tiny sparrow of having a big head is both humorous and illustrative.
“Kutyából nem lesz szalonna” – “A dog won’t become bacon”
“Kutyából nem lesz szalonna” is an idiom that translates to “A dog won’t become bacon.” This phrase is used to express that some things or people cannot change their inherent nature. Just as a dog cannot transform into bacon, certain traits or characteristics are unchangeable. It’s a humorous yet profound way to acknowledge the constancy of nature.
“Nem esik messze az alma a fájától” – “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”
While this idiom exists in many languages, the Hungarian version, “Nem esik messze az alma a fájától,” translates directly to “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” It means that children often resemble their parents in behavior or characteristics. The visual of an apple falling right beneath the tree it grew from is a simple yet powerful metaphor for familial traits.
Food-Related Expressions
Food is a universal language, and Hungarian idioms often use culinary references to convey deeper meanings. These expressions can be both mouth-watering and amusing.
“Sok lúd disznót győz” – “Many geese overcome a pig”
The idiom “Sok lúd disznót győz” translates to “Many geese overcome a pig.” This phrase is used to express the idea that a group of weaker individuals can overcome a stronger opponent by working together. The image of a flock of geese taking down a pig is both humorous and memorable, emphasizing the power of unity.
“Nem kolbászból van a kerítés” – “The fence is not made of sausage”
When Hungarians say “Nem kolbászból van a kerítés,” or “The fence is not made of sausage,” they mean that things are not as easy or luxurious as they might seem. It’s a way to remind someone that reality is often less idyllic than they might imagine. The idea of a fence made of sausages is whimsically absurd, driving home the point with humor.
“El van mint a befőtt” – “He is like the canned fruit”
“El van mint a befőtt” translates to “He is like the canned fruit.” This idiom is used to describe someone who is content and doesn’t need much attention or care. Just as canned fruit sits preserved and undisturbed, a person described this way is self-sufficient and low-maintenance. It’s a charming and humorous way to describe a laid-back individual.
Expressions Involving Body Parts
Body parts are commonly used in Hungarian idioms to describe various situations and emotions. These expressions are often vivid and sometimes quite funny.
“Leesik az álla” – “His chin drops”
The idiom “Leesik az álla,” which means “His chin drops,” is used to describe someone who is extremely surprised or shocked. The imagery of someone’s jaw literally dropping in astonishment is a humorous and effective way to convey surprise.
“Lóg az orra” – “His nose is hanging”
When someone says “Lóg az orra,” or “His nose is hanging,” they are describing a person who is sad or disappointed. The visual of a drooping nose is a whimsical way to depict a forlorn expression, making the idiom both amusing and descriptive.
“Kéz kezet mos” – “Hand washes hand”
“Kéz kezet mos” translates to “Hand washes hand.” This idiom is used to describe a situation where people help each other out, often in a mutually beneficial arrangement. It’s the Hungarian equivalent of “You scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours.” The image of two hands washing each other is a simple yet effective metaphor for cooperation and mutual assistance.
Expressions Related to Work and Effort
Work and effort are common themes in Hungarian idioms, often expressed with a touch of humor. These expressions can be both motivational and entertaining.
“Nagy fába vágja a fejszéjét” – “He cuts into a big tree with his axe”
The idiom “Nagy fába vágja a fejszéjét,” meaning “He cuts into a big tree with his axe,” describes someone who takes on a challenging task. The imagery of chopping into a large tree highlights the difficulty of the endeavor, while also emphasizing the person’s determination. It’s a motivational expression with a touch of humor.
“Sokat akar a szarka, de nem bírja a farka” – “The magpie wants a lot, but its tail can’t handle it”
“Sokat akar a szarka, de nem bírja a farka” translates to “The magpie wants a lot, but its tail can’t handle it.” This idiom is used to describe someone who has ambitions beyond their capacity. The visual of a magpie, known for its tendency to collect shiny objects, struggling because of its tail is both humorous and illustrative.
“Nem látja a fától az erdőt” – “He can’t see the forest for the tree”
While similar to the English idiom, “Nem látja a fától az erdőt” translates to “He can’t see the forest for the tree.” This expression is used to describe someone who is so focused on the details that they miss the bigger picture. The imagery of being so close to a single tree that the entire forest is obscured is a vivid and effective metaphor.
Expressions Involving Nature
Nature often serves as a source of inspiration for Hungarian idioms, providing a rich tapestry of imagery and meaning.
“Két szék között a pad alá esik” – “He falls between two chairs and ends up under the bench”
The idiom “Két szék között a pad alá esik,” meaning “He falls between two chairs and ends up under the bench,” describes someone who fails because they couldn’t choose between two options. The visual of missing both chairs and landing on the floor is a humorous way to highlight the consequences of indecision.
“Eső után köpönyeg” – “Cloak after rain”
“Eső után köpönyeg” translates to “Cloak after rain.” This idiom is used to describe a situation where help or action comes too late to be useful. The imagery of putting on a cloak after getting drenched in the rain is both amusing and poignant, emphasizing the futility of belated efforts.
“Késő bánat, eb gondolat” – “Late regret, dog thought”
“Késő bánat, eb gondolat,” meaning “Late regret, dog thought,” is another idiom that conveys the idea of too little, too late. The expression suggests that regret after the fact is as useless as a dog’s idle thoughts. It’s a humorous and somewhat cynical way to comment on the futility of belated remorse.
Proverbs with a Twist
Hungarian proverbs often come with a humorous twist, making them both memorable and entertaining. These expressions offer wisdom with a side of wit.
“Aki mer, az nyer” – “He who dares, wins”
“Aki mer, az nyer,” translating to “He who dares, wins,” is a motivational proverb that encourages taking risks. While it may sound straightforward, the Hungarian version often carries a playful tone, suggesting that fortune favors the bold with a wink and a nod.
“Jobb későn, mint soha” – “Better late than never”
“Jobb későn, mint soha,” meaning “Better late than never,” is a common proverb in many languages. The Hungarian version, however, is often delivered with a touch of humor, acknowledging that while it’s good to eventually take action, it’s even better to be timely.
“Nem minden arany, ami fénylik” – “Not everything that glitters is gold”
“Nem minden arany, ami fénylik,” translating to “Not everything that glitters is gold,” is a cautionary proverb about appearances being deceptive. The Hungarian version, like its English counterpart, serves as a humorous reminder to look beyond the surface.
Conclusion
The figurative expressions in the Hungarian language offer a delightful window into the culture, humor, and wisdom of the Hungarian people. From animal-inspired idioms to food-related expressions and proverbs with a twist, these idioms are not only entertaining but also enriching for language learners. By exploring and understanding these colorful phrases, learners can gain deeper insights into the Hungarian way of thinking and add a touch of humor to their language skills. So the next time you’re studying Hungarian, don’t forget to sprinkle in some of these funny figurative expressions—you’ll not only sound more fluent but also more charmingly Hungarian.
