Learning a new language is always a fascinating journey, filled with new vocabulary, grammar rules, and cultural insights. One of the most intriguing aspects of mastering a new language is understanding its figurative expressions—those quirky, often humorous idioms that give a language its unique flavor. Romanian, a Romance language with Latin roots, is no exception. It is rich in colorful and funny figurative expressions that can leave you scratching your head if taken literally. In this article, we will dive into some of these amusing expressions, offering both their literal translations and their actual meanings, so you can appreciate the wit and wisdom embedded in the Romanian language.

Expressions Involving Animals

“A da vrabia din mână pe cioara de pe gard”

Literally translated, this expression means “to give the sparrow from your hand for the crow on the fence.” It is similar to the English idiom “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” The Romanian version suggests that giving up something small but certain for something larger but uncertain is unwise. It’s a cautionary tale about risk and reward.

“A face din țânțar armăsar”

This phrase translates to “to make a stallion out of a mosquito.” It is akin to the English expression “to make a mountain out of a molehill.” It means to exaggerate a minor issue into something much larger and more problematic than it actually is. It’s a humorous way of calling someone out for overreacting.

“A umbla cu cioara vopsită”

Literally, this means “to walk around with a painted crow.” The expression is used to describe someone who tries to deceive others with something fake or fraudulent. It’s like saying someone is trying to pass off a lie as the truth, akin to the English idiom “to pull the wool over someone’s eyes.”

Expressions Involving Food

“A fi varză”

This phrase translates to “to be cabbage.” In Romanian, if someone says “Ești varză” (You are cabbage), they mean that you are a mess or in a state of disarray. It’s a funny and somewhat affectionate way to tell someone that they are not at their best.

“A freca menta”

Literally meaning “to rub the mint,” this idiom is used to describe someone who is wasting time or being lazy. The English equivalent would be “to twiddle one’s thumbs.” It’s a humorous way to point out that someone is not being productive.

“A avea pitici pe creier”

This translates to “to have dwarfs on the brain.” It means that someone has strange or eccentric ideas. It’s a playful way to say that someone is acting a bit crazy or is obsessed with odd thoughts.

Expressions Involving Body Parts

“A avea un cui”

Literally, “to have a nail,” this expression means to have a persistent problem or obsession. It’s similar to the English idiom “to have a bee in one’s bonnet.” It conveys the idea that something is constantly bothering or nagging at a person.

“A da din gură”

This phrase means “to give from the mouth,” and it is used to describe someone who talks a lot, often without much substance. The English equivalent would be “to run one’s mouth.” It’s a humorous critique of someone who is overly talkative.

“A trage mâța de coadă”

Literally, “to pull the cat by the tail,” this idiom means to barely make ends meet or to live in a state of financial struggle. It’s a vivid and amusing way to describe someone who is just getting by.

Expressions Involving Colors

“A vedea stele verzi”

This expression translates to “to see green stars.” It is used to describe someone who is in a lot of pain, similar to the English phrase “to see stars.” It’s often used in a humorous context to exaggerate the extent of someone’s discomfort.

“A se da de ceasul morții”

Literally, “to give oneself to the clock of death,” this idiom means to be extremely worried or frantic. The English equivalent might be “to be worried sick.” It’s a dramatic and humorous way to describe someone who is in a state of high anxiety.

“A umbla cu capul în nori”

This phrase means “to walk with your head in the clouds.” It describes someone who is daydreaming or not paying attention to their surroundings, much like the English expression “to have one’s head in the clouds.” It’s a playful way to call someone out for being absent-minded.

Expressions Involving Everyday Objects

“A bate apa în piuă”

Literally translating to “to beat the water in a mortar,” this expression means to do something pointless or to waste time on a futile task. It’s similar to the English idiom “to beat a dead horse.” It’s a humorous way to highlight the absurdity of engaging in a useless activity.

“A prinde pe Dumnezeu de un picior”

This phrase means “to catch God by the leg.” It’s used to describe someone who has had a stroke of incredible luck, similar to the English expression “to hit the jackpot.” It’s a colorful and humorous way to convey the idea of experiencing extraordinary good fortune.

“A face pe dracu-n patru”

Literally, “to make the devil into four,” this idiom means to go to great lengths to achieve something, akin to the English phrase “to move heaven and earth.” It’s a dramatic and humorous way to describe someone who is willing to do whatever it takes to reach their goal.

Expressions Involving Weather

“Plouă cu găleata”

This translates to “it’s raining with the bucket.” It means that it’s raining very heavily, similar to the English idiom “it’s raining cats and dogs.” It’s a vivid and humorous way to describe a downpour.

“A bate vântul”

Literally meaning “the wind is blowing,” this expression is used to describe a place that is very empty or abandoned, much like the English phrase “a ghost town.” It’s a somewhat poetic and humorous way to convey the idea of desolation.

“A avea noroc chior”

This phrase means “to have blind luck.” It describes someone who is very lucky, often in an unexpected or undeserved way. The English equivalent might be “dumb luck.” It’s a humorous way to point out that someone’s good fortune is not due to their own efforts or merit.

Expressions Involving Relationships

“A fi cu capul în nori din dragoste”

This translates to “to have your head in the clouds from love.” It describes someone who is so infatuated or in love that they are not paying attention to anything else. The English equivalent would be “to be love-struck.” It’s a romantic and humorous way to describe someone who is head over heels in love.

“A se uita ca mâța-n calendar”

Literally, “to look like the cat at the calendar,” this idiom describes someone who is looking at something with complete confusion or lack of understanding. It’s similar to the English expression “to look like a deer in headlights.” It’s a humorous way to point out someone’s bewilderment.

“A avea pe cineva la degetul mic”

This phrase means “to have someone at the little finger.” It describes a situation where one person has complete control or influence over another, similar to the English expression “to have someone wrapped around your finger.” It’s a playful and somewhat mischievous way to describe a power dynamic in a relationship.

Expressions Involving Emotions

“A râde cu lacrimi”

This translates to “to laugh with tears.” It describes someone who is laughing so hard that they are crying, much like the English phrase “to laugh until you cry.” It’s a vivid and humorous way to convey extreme amusement.

“A avea inima cât un purice”

Literally, “to have a heart as small as a flea,” this idiom means to be very scared or nervous. The English equivalent might be “to have your heart in your mouth.” It’s a colorful and humorous way to describe someone who is feeling very anxious.

“A fi cu ochii în patru”

This phrase means “to have your eyes in four (directions).” It describes someone who is being very vigilant or watchful, similar to the English expression “to keep your eyes peeled.” It’s a humorous way to emphasize the extent of someone’s alertness.

Expressions Involving Actions

“A pune paie pe foc”

Literally, “to put straw on the fire,” this idiom means to make a situation worse by adding fuel to the fire. The English equivalent is “to add fuel to the fire.” It’s a vivid and humorous way to describe someone who is exacerbating a problem.

“A întoarce foaia”

This translates to “to turn the page.” It means to change your attitude or approach, similar to the English expression “to turn over a new leaf.” It’s a hopeful and humorous way to describe someone making a positive change.

“A sta cu mâinile în sân”

Literally, “to stay with your hands in your bosom,” this idiom means to do nothing or to be idle. The English equivalent might be “to sit on your hands.” It’s a humorous way to point out someone’s inactivity.

Conclusion

Figurative expressions are the spice of any language, adding flavor and depth to everyday conversation. Romanian, with its rich history and cultural influences, offers a treasure trove of funny and colorful idioms that can both amuse and enlighten language learners. By understanding these expressions, you not only improve your linguistic skills but also gain insights into the Romanian way of thinking and their sense of humor. So the next time you hear someone say they are “rubbing the mint” or “catching God by the leg,” you’ll know exactly what they mean and can appreciate the humor and wisdom behind these unique phrases. Happy learning!