English translation
Source: Canva
Idioms are expressions with figurative, non-literal meanings. They shouldn’t be translated word for word, because behind them lies deep life wisdom. They are born through the conversations of many generations, woven into folk beliefs, humor, folklore, and collective culture.
In the Bulgarian language, idioms are particularly colorful. They often carry a strong dose of irony and sarcasm, mixed with unique wisdom. That’s why they enrich the language: they make it lively, memorable, melodic, and full of character.
Idioms can be especially useful when learning a new language precisely because their humor helps the brain remember new information more easily. Below you can explore
25 Bulgarian idioms along with their meanings.
Knowing them will not only help you navigate everyday Bulgarian conversations more easily but also give you a deeper understanding of Bulgarian cultural traits.
1. “Kapka po kapka – vir stava” - Drop by drop, a pond forms.
Persistence and patience always lead to results.
2. “Da pravish ot muhata slon” - To make an elephant out of a fly.
You exaggerate something tiny and turn it into a huge problem.
3. “Ot tran ta na glog”- From thorn to hawthorn.
You go from a bad situation to an even worse one.
4. “Da si varzhe gashtite”- То tie up your trousers.
To prepare in advance so there are no surprises.
5. “Da hvarlya prah v ochite”- To throw dust in someone’s eyes.
Trying to create a false or overly shiny impression.
6. “Da mu uvisne cheneto”- His jaw drops.
To be very surprised.
7. “Da si zarovi glavata v piasaka”- To bury one’s head in the sand.
Avoiding problems by pretending not to see them.
8. “Byal kahar”- A white worry.
A small problem compared to others.
9. “Da piesh edna studena voda”- To drink a glass of cold water.
To accept that something won’t happen / you won’t get what you wanted.
10. “Hvanal Gospod za shlifera”- He grabbed God by the coat.
A very lucky person for whom everything goes well.
11. “Varti go kato mechka na megdan” - To spin him like a bear on the village square.
To use someone as you please or drag them around.
12. “Kato kukuvitsa bez gnezdo”- Like a cuckoo without a nest.
Someone who has no place of their own or feels lost.
13. “Yaitseto uchi kokoshkata” - The egg teaches the hen.
The inexperienced tries to teach the experienced.
14. “Ticha kato uzhilen” - Runs as if stung.
Running extremely fast.
15. “Dupe da ti e yako” - Keep your butt strong.
A difficult or unpleasant situation is coming your way.
16. “Kato dve kapki voda” - Like two drops of water.
Two people who look very much alike.
17. “Idva mi do gusha” - It comes up to my throat.
I’m fed up; I’ve had enough.
18. “Kasa si nervite” - He tears his nerves.
He gets extremely nervous or stressed.
19. “Pee kato slavey”- Sings like a nightingale.
Has a beautiful singing voice.
20. “Lovi go shubeto” - Fear catches him.
He is afraid.
21. “Gleda kato tele v zhelezhnitsa” - Looks like a calf at a train.
Looking confused or not understanding what’s happening.
22. “Razbivay si glavata”- Break your own head.
Deal with the consequences of your actions on your own.
23. “Goni vyatara” - Chasing the wind.
Doing something pointless.
24. “Kape mu med ot ustata” - Honey drips from his mouth.
Speaks beautifully and persuasively.
This list certainly doesn’t cover all the curious idioms born from Bulgarian folk wisdom. However, the expressions above offer readers a glimpse into the true spirit of Bulgarian language and culture, while also helping them learn new phrases more easily.
Final challenge:
Learn the meaning of at least 2 of the idioms above and use them in a conversation with your Bulgarian friends or acquaintances. Share their reactions in the comments below!
Reneta, Community Manager - Bulgarian