Learning a new language is a journey filled with fascinating discoveries, and Welsh is no exception. One of the most intriguing aspects of mastering a new language is delving into its idioms. Idioms are expressions that have a figurative meaning different from their literal meaning, and they can reveal a lot about a culture’s values, humor, and history. In this article, we will explore some popular Welsh idioms, their meanings, and how they can enrich your understanding of the Welsh language and culture.
Understanding Welsh Idioms
Idioms are an integral part of any language, adding color and depth to everyday conversations. They often reflect the unique cultural and historical contexts of a language. Welsh idioms are no different, and they offer a glimpse into the Welsh way of thinking and living. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, familiarizing yourself with these idioms can enhance your fluency and make your Welsh conversations more lively and authentic.
1. “Dros ben llestri” – Over the dishes
This idiom, when translated literally, means “over the dishes.” However, its figurative meaning is akin to the English idiom “over the top” or “going too far.” It is used to describe someone who is being excessive or overdoing something.
Example:
“Mae hi’n mynd dros ben llestri gyda’i pharatoi ar gyfer y parti.”
(Translation: “She is going over the top with her preparations for the party.”)
2. “Ar bigau’r drain” – On the thorns
Literally meaning “on the thorns,” this idiom is used to describe someone who is anxious or on edge, similar to the English phrase “on pins and needles.”
Example:
“Roeddwn i ar bigau’r drain yn aros am y newyddion.”
(Translation: “I was on pins and needles waiting for the news.”)
3. “Codi pais ar ôl piso” – To raise a petticoat after urinating
This colorful idiom means to act too late or to do something that should have been done earlier. It is similar to the English idiom “closing the stable door after the horse has bolted.”
Example:
“Mae codi pais ar ôl piso – roedd hi’n rhy hwyr i newid ei feddwl.”
(Translation: “It’s like closing the stable door after the horse has bolted – it was too late to change her mind.”)
4. “Cân di bennill” – Sing a verse without an ending
This idiom is used to describe someone who is hesitant or indecisive, akin to the English phrase “to hum and haw.”
Example:
“Mae e’n canu di bennill pan mae’n dod i wneud penderfyniadau.”
(Translation: “He hums and haws when it comes to making decisions.”)
5. “Tynnu coes” – To pull a leg
Similar to the English idiom “to pull someone’s leg,” this Welsh idiom means to tease or joke with someone.
Example:
“Mae’n aml yn tynnu fy nghoes gyda’i jôcs.”
(Translation: “He often pulls my leg with his jokes.”)
6. “Ddim yn fy nghyllell i” – Not in my knife
This idiom means that something is not to someone’s taste or preference, similar to the English phrase “not my cup of tea.”
Example:
“Mae’r math yma o waith ddim yn fy nghyllell i.”
(Translation: “This kind of work is not my cup of tea.”)
7. “Codi ofn ar rywun” – To raise fear on someone
This idiom is used when someone is trying to scare or intimidate another person. It’s akin to the English phrase “to scare someone.”
Example:
“Mae’r ffilm yma’n codi ofn arna i.”
(Translation: “This film scares me.”)
8. “Dros fy mhen” – Over my head
This idiom means that something is too complicated for someone to understand, similar to the English phrase “over my head.”
Example:
“Mae’r esboniad gwyddonol hwnnw dros fy mhen.”
(Translation: “That scientific explanation is over my head.”)
9. “Cael ei ddal gyda’i drowsus i lawr” – To be caught with one’s trousers down
This idiom is used when someone is caught off guard or unprepared, similar to the English phrase “caught with one’s pants down.”
Example:
“Cafodd ei ddal gyda’i drowsus i lawr pan ofynnodd y bos gwestiwn anodd iddo.”
(Translation: “He was caught with his pants down when the boss asked him a difficult question.”)
10. “Fel hwch mewn siop borslen” – Like a pig in a porcelain shop
This idiom is similar to the English phrase “like a bull in a china shop,” used to describe someone who is clumsy or disruptive.
Example:
“Mae e fel hwch mewn siop borslen pan mae’n dawnsio.”
(Translation: “He is like a bull in a china shop when he dances.”)
11. “Gwneud môr a mynydd o rywbeth” – To make a sea and mountain out of something
This idiom means to exaggerate or overreact, similar to the English phrase “to make a mountain out of a molehill.”
Example:
“Mae hi’n gwneud môr a mynydd o’r sefyllfa hon.”
(Translation: “She is making a mountain out of a molehill with this situation.”)
12. “Fel dau gi bach” – Like two little dogs
This idiom is used to describe two people who are inseparable or always together, similar to the English phrase “like two peas in a pod.”
Example:
“Mae’r ddau’n fel dau gi bach bob amser gyda’i gilydd.”
(Translation: “The two are always together like two peas in a pod.”)
13. “Yn y ffos” – In the trench
This idiom is used to describe being in a difficult or challenging situation, similar to the English phrase “in the trenches.”
Example:
“Roeddwn i’n teimlo fel bod yn y ffos pan oeddwn i’n gweithio ar y prosiect hwnnw.”
(Translation: “I felt like I was in the trenches when working on that project.”)
14. “Fel cath a llygoden” – Like a cat and mouse
This idiom describes a situation of constant pursuit and evasion, similar to the English phrase “a cat and mouse game.”
Example:
“Mae’r ddau’n chwarae fel cath a llygoden gyda’i gilydd.”
(Translation: “The two are playing a cat and mouse game with each other.”)
15. “Bod yn y fflam” – To be in the flame
This idiom means to be in a state of excitement or passion, similar to the English phrase “to be on fire.”
Example:
“Mae hi’n y fflam gyda’i gwaith newydd.”
(Translation: “She is on fire with her new job.”)
Using Welsh Idioms in Conversation
Incorporating idioms into your conversations can make your language skills appear more advanced and native-like. However, it’s important to use them appropriately to avoid misunderstandings. Here are a few tips on how to effectively use Welsh idioms:
1. **Context is Key**: Make sure you understand the context in which an idiom is used. Using an idiom in the wrong context can lead to confusion or misinterpretation.
2. **Practice with Native Speakers**: If possible, practice using idioms with native Welsh speakers. They can provide feedback and help you understand the nuances of each expression.
3. **Learn the Literal and Figurative Meanings**: Understanding both the literal and figurative meanings of an idiom can help you remember it better and use it correctly.
4. **Start with Common Idioms**: Begin with the most common idioms and gradually expand your repertoire. This will help you build confidence and improve your conversational skills.
Conclusion
Welsh idioms are a fascinating aspect of the language that can provide deeper insights into Welsh culture and enhance your language skills. By learning and using these idioms, you can make your conversations more engaging and authentic. Remember to pay attention to context, practice with native speakers, and enjoy the process of discovering the rich tapestry of Welsh expressions. Happy learning!
