mela marcia
Meaning: A person who is corrupt or morally bad and whose influence damages those around them.
Language: Italian
Literally: rotten apple
Category: Food & Drink
Origin: The image is straightforward: a single decaying apple in a barrel will cause nearby apples to rot. The phrase has been used since at least the 16th century to describe a corrupting influence in a group.
More idioms — Food & Drink
- cavare le castagne dal fuoco — To help someone out of a dangerous or difficult situation, often at one's own risk or eff…
- a cereja do bolo — the crowning touch; something wonderful that completes something already good.
- nem carne nem peixe — Something or someone that does not fit into any clear category and remains ambiguous or u…
- water bij de wijn doen — to compromise or make a concession in a dispute or negotiation.
- alleen de rozijnen uitpikken — to select only the best or most desirable items while ignoring the rest.
- roet in het eten gooien — to spoil or ruin a plan, event, or situation by introducing an unwelcome disruption.
More Italian idioms
- toccare il fondo — To reach the lowest point of degradation or despair; to hit rock bottom.
- mettere fuori combattimento — To silence someone or exclude them from participation and influence.
- dannarsi l'anima — To work extremely hard or exert oneself to the utmost.
- guardarsi alle spalle — To remain vigilant and aware of dangers or threats that might come from behind.
- qui casca l'asino — That is the crux of the matter; that is where the real difficulty lies.
- mettersi al passo con i tempi — To keep up with current events or modernize one's knowledge and habits.
From our proverbs
- He measures your corn by his bushel. — People judge others' actions using their own standards as the measure, not objective trut…
- Meat is much, but manners is more. — Generosity means little without courtesy; how you give matters more than what you give.
- There's a medium between painting the face and not washing it. — Moderation in self-presentation avoids both vanity's excess and neglect's impropriety.