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na kolanie

Meaning: Done quickly, crudely, or without proper care; improvised and shoddy.

Language: Polish

Literally: on the knee

Category: Daily Life

Origin: Origin uncertain; may derive from work or repairs done hastily while sitting on one's knee rather than at a proper workbench.

More idioms — Daily Life

  • papierek lakmusowy — A decisive test that reveals the true nature or quality of something.
  • wyrzucić pieniądze w błoto — To waste money on something worthless or futile.
  • prosty jak drut — Very easy or straightforward.
  • dusza towarzystwa — The most entertaining or lively person at a gathering.
  • list gończy — An arrest warrant, especially a public wanted poster circulated to apprehend a fugitive.
  • pojechać do Rygi — To vomit.

More Polish idioms

  • utrzymać język za zębami — To keep silent and refrain from speaking.
  • nic a nic — Not at all; not in the slightest.
  • mieć głowę na karku — To be sensible, intelligent, and capable of thinking for oneself.
  • trzymać buzię na kłódkę — To keep silent and not reveal a secret.
  • policzyć na palcach jednej ręki — To be very few in number; countable on one hand.
  • biała trucizna — Refined sugar, especially when consumed in excess, likened to an addictive and harmful su…

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