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Tener mala leche

Meaning: To be in a foul mood or have bad intentions.

Language: Spanish

Literally: To have bad milk

Category: Food & Drink

Origin: Spanish expression, possibly tied to the old belief in wet nurses' milk affecting temperament.

More idioms — Food & Drink

  • Ser pan comido — To be extremely easy.
  • Dar calabazas — To reject someone romantically.
  • Non tutte le ciambelle riescono col buco — Things don't always go as planned.
  • Cadere a fagiolo — To arrive at exactly the perfect moment.
  • Acqua in bocca — Keep it secret; don't tell anyone.
  • 눈에 콩깍지가 씌다 — To be blinded by love.

More Spanish idioms

  • No tener pelos en la lengua — To speak very bluntly and honestly.
  • Estar como una cabra — To be completely crazy.
  • Tirar la casa por la ventana — To spare no expense; to go all out.
  • Meter la pata — To make a blunder or put your foot in it.
  • Tomar el pelo — To pull someone's leg; to tease.
  • Ponerse las botas — To stuff yourself with food or to profit greatly.

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