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Norwegian Expressions and Idioms
Learn the funniest and most common Norwegian idioms — and what they actually mean!
Norwegian is full of colourful expressions. Here are the most popular ones — and what they actually mean:
Common Norwegian idioms
| Expression | Literal meaning | Actually means |
|---|---|---|
| Å ha is i magen | To have ice in the stomach | To be calm and patient |
| Å ta beina på nakken | To put the legs on the neck | To run away fast — to flee! |
| Å være på bærtur | To be on a berry trip | To talk nonsense — to be wrong |
| Å slå to fluer i en smekk | To hit two flies with one swat | To achieve two things at once |
| Det er ikke måte på | There is no limit to it | It is extremely good / incredible! |
| Det er ikke min kopp te | It is not my cup of tea | It is not for me / not my thing |
| Nå er smørret på begge sider | Now the butter is on both sides | Double benefit — extra good! |
| Det finnes ikke dårlig vær | There is no bad weather | Only bad clothing — embrace the outdoors! |
Tip
Learning idioms is a fun way to understand Norwegian culture! Norwegians appreciate it when foreigners use Norwegian expressions. Try saying "Å ha is i magen" next time you are waiting for something!
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