Czech phrase

Discussion in 'General Language' started by McCracken, Dec 5, 2008.

  1. McCracken

    McCracken Well-Known Member

    I came across the phrase "byt v jednom kole" the other day. I can work out the literal meaning but am I right in thinking that the figurative meaning is something akin to the English expression "a one-armed (wall)paper hanger"? (i.e. very busy)
     
  2. Jana

    Jana Well-Known Member

    Yes, you are right - the literal meaning is "to be in one wheel", comparing sb to a squirrel closed in a running wheel.
     
  3. McCracken

    McCracken Well-Known Member

    Thanks Jana.
     
  4. McCracken

    McCracken Well-Known Member

    Sorry, I should have asked this before:

    So that I can explain an English equivalent to my friend, how would "a one-armed wallpaper hanger" be translated into Czech (literally rather than figuratively)?
     
  5. Jana

    Jana Well-Known Member

    "a one-armed wallpaper hanger" - jednoruký lepič tapet
     
  6. McCracken

    McCracken Well-Known Member

    Thanks again, Jana :) !
     
  7. wer

    wer Well-Known Member

    Are you sure of it? My understanding was always “to be in one circle” as “to be in one circular (=permanent) movement”.

    And it could also mean “to dance” or “to wrestle”.
     
  8. MK

    MK Well-Known Member

    Yes we dance in circles and it is most probably origin of this saying but I worry that the "running wheel" will make more sense than "dancing circles" for our English speaking friends. :D

    "nevyšla z kola" = she danced for whole party
     

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