Serbian Learning Community and Resource

Cake or Beans: The Language of Taste

Source: Milos, OLS Community Manager

Hey there, language lovers! Get ready for a tasty adventure through idiomatic expressions. From the sweetness of cake to the simplicity of beans, we're about to uncover the flavorful world of language! 

As you know, the expression used in the English language is: "Piece of Cake". Imagine this scenario: You're faced with a task so simple it feels like cutting through a cake. This is the essence of "piece of cake" – something remarkably easy or straightforward to accomplish. However, did you know how we express this sentiment in Serbian?

In Serbian, the equivalent is "Prosto kao pasulj." This idiom draws a comparison to the simplicity of cooking beans. It reflects the idea of completing a task with minimal effort and basic ingredients.

Understanding "Prosto kao pasulj"

Preparing beans is not easy at all, and it takes about 3 hours to cook. But, as the Serbian culture and language is very interesting, we managed to turn something difficult into a phrase to describe how easy something is. It doesn't make much sense, does it? But that is the Serbian language, full of surprises and creativity. Beans are simple-looking, so maybe that added to the sarcasm that they are easy to cook. In many cultures, including Serbian cuisine, beans hold a special place as a staple ingredient in traditional dishes. Furthermore, the choice of beans as a metaphorical representation of simplicity may also stem from the practicality and accessibility of beans in everyday life. Beans are widely available, affordable, and commonly used in Serbian cuisine

In contrast, the English idiom "Piece of cake" likely originates from the ease with which a slice of cake can be enjoyed. Cutting a piece of cake requires minimal effort and is often associated with celebrations and joyous occasions. The visual imagery of cutting through a soft, delicious cake adds to the idiom's appeal and widespread usage in English-speaking cultures.

Ultimately, the choice of beans in the Serbian idiom "Prosto kao pasulj" reflects cultural values, culinary traditions, and the practical aspects of everyday life, while still conveying the universal concept of simplicity and ease shared by idioms across different languages and cultures.

Exploring Serbian Idioms: 

- "Lako kao pasulj" - As easy as beans: This idiom emphasizes the ease and simplicity of a task, likening it to the preparation of beans. 

- "Lako kao perce" - "Easy as a feather": This idiom it is used to describe tasks or activities that are very easy to accomplish, 

- "Brzo kao munja" - "Fast as lightning": This idiom illustrates the speed and rapidity of an action, likening it to the swift movement of lightning.