Germanwie ein Blinder von der Farbe reden
Meaning: to discuss or explain something one has no direct experience or understanding of; to speak theoretically without practical knowledge.
Literally: Like a blind man speaking of color
Example: “Er redet über Weinbau wie ein Blinder von der Farbe.” — He talks about winemaking through his hat.
English equivalent: To talk through one's hat
Equivalents in other languages
Polish: co ślina na język przyniesie Literally: Whatever saliva brings to the tongue
English: talk through one's hat
Origin: A blind person talking about colors is talking about something entirely outside their experience. The image of the blind trying to judge or guide what they cannot see is very old, from the Gospels' blind leading the blind to Horace's blind man who wants to show the way. The German phrase means talking confidently about something one knows nothing about; its first German use is not documented.
More German idioms
- erstunken und erlogen entirely false or made up; a complete lie or fabrication.
- mit allem Drum und Dran complete with all the accessories, extras, or associated details; entirely and comprehens…
- jemandem nicht das Wasser reichen können To be vastly inferior to someone in ability or quality.
- an die Kandare nehmen To restrain, control, or impose discipline on someone.
- auf dem Teppich bleiben To stay grounded and realistic; to avoid getting swept up in fantasies or exaggeration.
- seinen Hut nehmen To resign or quit from a position.
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