Learn Norwegian: Norwegian Idioms 1 and 2

Idiom 1: Is i magen (Ice in the stomach)

“Ha is i magen” means “to remain calm and in control.” While the expression “is i magen” can be literally translated as having “ice in the stomach,” it has nothing to do with ice, ice cubes or ice cream. It means that someone is entirely calm, balanced, or patient when faced with a hard job or choice.

Let’s break down the vocabulary in this idiom.

Vocabulary:

å ha – to have

is – ice

i – in

en mage – a stomach

i magen – in the stomach

Det er viktig å ha “is i magen”!

It is vital to remain calm and in control!

Idiom 2: Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlige klær! (There is not such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.)

You won’t notice the bad weather if you’re appropriately dressed. Norwegians like outdoor activities, so this is a popular expression. Why not use this expression when you or your children complain about being too cold?

Vocabulary:

å finnes – to exist

dårlig – bad

et vær – a weather

bare – only

klær – clothes