Остаться с носом

Meaning: To be left empty-handed or outwitted.

Language: Russian

Literally: To be left with the nose

Category: Body & Senses

Origin: Here 'nos' meant a bribe-offering that was refused, leaving the suitor still holding it, rejected and foolish.

More idioms — Body & Senses

• Делать ноги — To run away quickly.
• Заговаривать зубы — To distract someone with smooth, evasive talk.
• 二階から目薬 — A roundabout effort that has no real effect.
• 喉から手が出る — To want something so badly you can hardly bear it.
• Μου έφυγε το καφάσι — I was utterly shocked.
• Att ha tummen mitt i handen — To be hopelessly clumsy; all thumbs.

More Russian idioms

• Как сельдь в бочке — Packed together very tightly.
• Вешать всех собак — To blame someone for everything.
• Седьмая вода на киселе — A very distant relative.
• Положить зубы на полку — To go hungry; to tighten your belt.
• Считать ворон — To idle and let chances slip by.
• Гол как сокол — Dirt poor; without a thing to your name.

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