Chinese whispers (UK)
definition: When a story is told from person to person, especially if it is gossip or scandal, it inevitably gets distorted and exaggerated. This process is called Chinese whispers.
italian: sussurri cinesi (quando una storia si diffonde con il pasaparola e così facendo viene inevitabilmente modificata e ingigantita)
Not for all the tea in China
definition: never (not if you gave me all the tea in China) “Would you like to live in space? “No. Not for all the tea in China!”
italian: Nemmeno per tutto l’oro del mondo (Lett: Nememno per tutto il te della Cina)
Bull in a china shop
definition: If somebody behaves like a bull in a china shop, they are very clumsy, mostly when they should be careful
italian: un elefante in un negozio di porcellane
Rome wasn’t built in a day
definition: This idiom means that many things cannot be done instantly, and require time and patience.
italian: Roma non è stata costruita in un giorno
When in Rome, do as the Romans do
definition: This idiom means that when you are visiting a different place or culture, you should try to follow their customs and practices.
italian: Quando sei a Roma fai come fanno i romani (quando visiti un posto nuovo, segui le usanze del posto che stai visitando)
Double Dutch
definition: (UK) If something is double Dutch, it is completely incomprehensible.
italian: “doppio olandese” (indica qualcosa che è incomprensibile
Dutch auction
definition: If something is sold by setting a price, then reducing it until someone buys it, it is sold in a Dutch auction. It can also mean that something is changed until it is accepted by everyone.
italian: “asta olandese”, asta al ribasso (si usa quando qualcosa viene venduto riducendo progressivamente il prezzo fino a trovare un acquirente)
Dutch courage
definition: Dutch courage is the reckless bravery caused by drinking too much.
italian: “coraggio olandese” (il coraggio ottenuto bevendo troppo)
Dutch uncle
definition: A Dutch uncle is a person who gives unwelcome advice.
italian: “zio olandese” (una persona che da consigli indesiderati)
Go Dutch
definition: If you go Dutch in a restaurant, you pay equal shares for the meal.
italian: pagare alla romana
