Spanisholer a chamusquina
Meaning: a situation is becoming tense or dangerous; trouble is brewing.
Literally: To smell of a scorch or singe
Example: “Tanto silencio en la reunión me huele a chamusquina.” — All that silence in the meeting tells me storm clouds are gathering.
English equivalent: Storm clouds are gathering
Equivalents in other languages
French: Il y a de l'orage dans l'air Literally: There's a storm in the air- French: Il y a de l'eau dans le gaz Literally: There is water in the gas
English: storm clouds are gathering
Origin: Chamusquina is the smell of something singed. The RAE's historical dictionary records the phrase from the early 20th century for a situation that arouses suspicion or fear, especially an argument about to turn into a fight. A popular explanation ties it to the Inquisition's pyres, where suspect books and sometimes their authors were burned, but this is not documented.
More Spanish idioms
- cazar al vuelo To seize or take something quickly before someone else can.
- vender la moto To trick or deceive someone, often by persuading them to believe a false story.
- llevar la contraria To argue against or contradict someone habitually.
- para andar por casa Makeshift, temporary, or of poor quality; fit only for casual home use.
- salvar las apariencias To maintain an outward show of respectability or normalcy despite underlying problems.
- crecer como la espuma To increase or expand very rapidly and dramatically.
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