11 Norwegian Idiomatic Expressions and Their Meanings

Idiomatic expressions are phrases or sentences that have a figurative meaning that is different from their literal translation. These expressions are an important part of language learning as they add depth and nuance to conversations. Understanding idioms allows learners to communicate more effectively and sound more natural in their target language. Norwegian, like any other language, has its fair share of idiomatic expressions that can be challenging to grasp for non-native speakers. In this article, we will explore some common Norwegian idiomatic expressions, their meanings, and how to use them in context.

“Å ha bein i nesa”

The expression “å ha bein i nesa” literally translates to “to have bones in the nose.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who is strong-willed, assertive, and not easily intimidated. It implies that the person is not afraid to stand up for themselves and speak their mind.

For example, if someone is being treated unfairly at work and decides to confront their boss about it, you could say, “Han har virkelig bein i nesa” (He really has bones in his nose). This means that the person is brave and confident enough to address the issue head-on.

Similar expressions can be found in other languages as well. In English, we might say someone has a “backbone” or “spine” to convey a similar meaning of strength and assertiveness.

“Å være på bærtur”

The expression “å være på bærtur” literally translates to “to be on a berry trip.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who is mistaken or wrong about something. It implies that the person is not thinking clearly or is being naive.

For example, if someone believes a rumor without verifying the facts, you could say, “Du er virkelig på bærtur” (You are really on a berry trip). This means that the person is not thinking logically and is being gullible.

The origins of this expression are unclear, but it is believed to have originated from the idea of someone getting lost or distracted while picking berries in the forest. This would lead them to make mistakes or have false perceptions.

“Å sitte med skjegget i postkassa”

The expression “å sitte med skjegget i postkassa” literally translates to “to sit with the beard in the mailbox.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who is caught in an embarrassing or compromising situation. It implies that the person has made a mistake or has been caught doing something they shouldn’t have.

For example, if someone is caught cheating on a test, you could say, “Han sitter virkelig med skjegget i postkassa” (He really sits with his beard in the mailbox). This means that the person is in a difficult and embarrassing situation because of their actions.

Similar expressions can be found in other languages as well. In English, we might say someone is “caught red-handed” or “in a tight spot” to convey a similar meaning of being caught in an embarrassing situation.

“Å ha en høne å plukke”

The expression “å ha en høne å plukke” literally translates to “to have a chicken to pick.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who has an issue or conflict that they need to address or resolve. It implies that the person has a problem or disagreement that they want to discuss or settle.

For example, if two friends have had an argument and one of them wants to talk it out, they could say, “Jeg har en høne å plukke med deg” (I have a chicken to pick with you). This means that they want to address the issue and find a resolution.

The origins of this expression are unclear, but it is believed to have originated from the idea of plucking feathers from a chicken, which can be a tedious and time-consuming task. This would imply that addressing and resolving the issue at hand may require effort and patience.

“Å være på gli”

The expression “å være på gli” literally translates to “to be on the glide.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who is on the move or in motion. It implies that the person is busy or active.

For example, if someone asks you if you have time to meet up later and you are busy with other commitments, you could say, “Jeg er på gli i dag” (I am on the glide today). This means that you are busy and have a lot going on.

This expression can also be used to describe someone who is sneaky or trying to avoid being caught. For example, if someone is trying to steal something without being noticed, you could say, “Han er på gli” (He is on the glide). This means that the person is being sneaky or trying to avoid detection.

“Å ha en finger med i spillet”

The expression “å ha en finger med i spillet” literally translates to “to have a finger in the game.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who has influence or involvement in a situation or decision. It implies that the person has a say or role in what is happening.

For example, if someone is part of a group discussion and is actively contributing their ideas and opinions, you could say, “Han har virkelig en finger med i spillet” (He really has a finger in the game). This means that the person is actively involved and has influence in the discussion.

Similar expressions can be found in other languages as well. In English, we might say someone has a “hand in the pot” or “a say in the matter” to convey a similar meaning of having influence or involvement.

“Å gå bananas”

The expression “å gå bananas” literally translates to “to go bananas.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who is acting crazy or losing control. It implies that the person is behaving in an irrational or unpredictable manner.

For example, if someone starts dancing wildly at a party, you could say, “Han går virkelig bananas” (He is really going bananas). This means that the person is acting crazy or letting loose.

The origins of this expression are unclear, but it is believed to have originated from the idea of monkeys going wild and jumping around when they are excited or agitated. This would imply that someone who is “going bananas” is exhibiting similar behavior.

“Å ha to strenger å spille på”

The expression “å ha to strenger å spille på” literally translates to “to have two strings to play on.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who has multiple options or resources to rely on. It implies that the person is resourceful and can adapt to different situations.

For example, if someone is faced with a problem and comes up with multiple solutions, you could say, “Han har virkelig to strenger å spille på” (He really has two strings to play on). This means that the person is resourceful and can find different ways to solve the problem.

Similar expressions can be found in other languages as well. In English, we might say someone has “more than one trick up their sleeve” or “multiple options” to convey a similar meaning of having multiple resources or options.

“Å være på hæla”

The expression “å være på hæla” literally translates to “to be on the heel.” However, its figurative meaning is quite different. This idiom is used to describe someone who is on the defensive or in a difficult situation. It implies that the person is struggling or under pressure.

For example, if someone is being criticized for their work and is having a hard time defending themselves, you could say, “Han er virkelig på hæla” (He is really on the heel). This means that the person is struggling and finding it difficult to respond to the criticism.

This expression can also be used to describe someone who is behind or late in completing a task or meeting a deadline. For example, if someone is running late for a meeting, you could say, “Han er på hæla” (He is on the heel). This means that the person is behind schedule and trying to catch up.

In conclusion, idiomatic expressions are an important part of language learning as they add depth and nuance to conversations. Understanding idioms allows learners to communicate more effectively and sound more natural in their target language. In this article, we explored some common Norwegian idiomatic expressions, their meanings, and how to use them in context. By incorporating idioms into your language learning journey, you can enhance your understanding of the culture and improve your overall fluency in the language. So, don’t be afraid to dive into the world of idiomatic expressions and continue exploring Norwegian idioms.

 

FAQs

What are idiomatic expressions?

Idiomatic expressions are phrases or sayings that have a figurative meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words used.

What is the article “11 Norwegian Idiomatic Expressions and Their Meanings” about?

The article is about 11 common idiomatic expressions used in the Norwegian language and their meanings.

What is the importance of learning idiomatic expressions?

Learning idiomatic expressions can help you understand the culture and language of a country better. It can also help you communicate more effectively with native speakers.

What are some examples of Norwegian idiomatic expressions?

Some examples of Norwegian idiomatic expressions include “å ha bein i nesa” (to have bones in the nose, meaning to be strong-willed), “å ha en høne å plukke” (to have a chicken to pick, meaning to have an issue to resolve), and “å ha en finger med i spillet” (to have a finger in the game, meaning to be involved in something).

Are idiomatic expressions unique to Norwegian?

No, idiomatic expressions exist in many languages and cultures around the world.

Can idiomatic expressions be translated directly?

No, idiomatic expressions cannot be translated directly as the meaning of the expression is often different from the literal meaning of the words used.

How can I learn more idiomatic expressions in Norwegian?

You can learn more idiomatic expressions in Norwegian by reading books, watching movies or TV shows, and speaking with native speakers. There are also many online resources available for learning idiomatic expressions.

 

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