spel för galleriet
Meaning: To do something misleading or false primarily to impress or deceive an audience or group of observers.
Language: Swedish
Literally: play for the gallery
Category: Daily Life
Origin: The phrase likely originates from theatrical performance, where "the gallery" refers to the cheapest seats in a theater, often occupied by rowdy spectators whose applause was easily won by exaggerated or sensational acting.
More idioms — Daily Life
- inte ha en aning — To have no idea or understanding whatsoever about something.
- sätta käppar i hjulet — To create obstacles or hindrances for someone or something.
- vända kappan efter vinden — To change one's allegiance or principles opportunistically depending on circumstances.
- styv i korken — Overly self-confident and arrogant, carrying oneself with unwarranted swagger.
- gå sitt öde till mötes — To face one's destiny, often implying a dramatic or fatal confrontation with what is fate…
- komma till pass — To prove useful or convenient in a particular situation; to be exactly what is needed.
More Swedish idioms
- ha luktat krutrök — To be experienced in battle or conflict; to have been tested under fire.
- ingen ko på isen — There is no danger or immediate problem; the situation is safe.
- djungelns lag — Survival of the fittest; a state of lawlessness where brutal competition and violence det…
- reta gallfeber på — To infuriate or enrage someone intensely.
- lägga vantarna på — To get hold of something; to seize or obtain.
- gräva sin egen grav — To cause one's own ruin or downfall through foolish actions.
From our proverbs
- Pull gently on a weak rope. — Excessive force on fragile things causes them to break; restraint and care preserve what'…
- It is easier to pull down than to build. — Destruction requires less effort, skill, and time than creating something of lasting valu…
- Many without punishment, none without sin. — Without accountability, wrongdoing flourishes; perfection remains impossible for all mort…