Armenian language is a unique ancient language that is spoken for many centuries now. Throughout the history of its existence, Armenian language has developed and changed. Many dialects have appeared, each of which is interesting and unique in its own way. Naturally, over time, just like in other languages, interesting idioms appeared in Armenian language – strange Armenian phrases that people use in their daily life, sometimes without even noticing it. Some of them may have similar meaning to the idioms of other languages, and the meaning of some of them would be difficult to explain if you are not a native speaker. Recently, more and more interesting and funny illustrations have appeared on the internet, depicting the literal meaning of these Armenian phrases.
Coming to a new country we usually quickly learn basic words and phrases in the language of that country, in order to easier communicate with the locals and navigate in a foreign place. Knowledge of some words and phrases helps to communicate and often pleases locals. In this way, you express your interest and respect for the country. There are many useful words in Armenian language that you might want to learn, such as “Barev” (Hello), “Shnorhakalutyun” (Thank you), “Ayo”/“Voch” (Yes/No). However, there are many unique and strange Armenian phrases that will definitely interest and delight you. You can find the most common ones in this article.
Common Armenian phrases
“Tsavd tanem” (Ցավդ տանեմ). Literal translation of this phrase is “Let me take your pain”. This phrase can be used in different contexts. Sometimes it expresses a very strong love, and sometimes it expresses empathy.
Continuing the theme of expressing great love, we want to note some other phrases, such as “Mernem janid” (Մեռնեմ ջանիդ), which literally translates as “I will die on your body”; “Jigyard utem” (Ջիգյարդ ուտեմ) – “I will eat your liver”. These phrases are often used by parents or grandparents to express the sacrifices they are ready to make for you, or the love so strong that they are ready to eat you alive.
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Qoranam yes (Քոռանամ ես). Literal translation of this idiom would be “let me go blind”. People use this phrase when something bad happens to someone. With this phrase, people express empathy and concern.
As you may have guessed, Armenian idioms can have different meanings. One of the most common and popular phrases is “Hors/Mors arev” (The sun of my Dad/Mom). People use this phrase when they want to give an oath, a promise that they will not break. People swear on the life of their mother or father. This phrase is also used when a person is annoyed or frustrated.
Eshi akanjin qnats (Էշի ականջին քնած) – “Sleeping on donkey’s ear”. This phrase is used to describe an unaware and careless person.
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Achkits ynknel (Աչքից ընկնել) – “To fall from the eye”. Armenians use this idiom to express disappointment in someone.
One more interesting phrase is Achkd luys (Աչքդ լույս), which literally translates as “Light to your eye”. With this phrase people congratulate someone and wish them all the best. This idiom is often used to congratulate a new mom. It also can be said with sarcasm. In this case, it means something like “oh, really”.
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Qtits trats (Քթից թռած). This idiom literally means “out of the nose”. It describes a person who is very similar to a family member. It can describe similarity in appearances, as well as similarity in characters. The English version of this idiom is probably “two peas in a pod”.
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We have listed some of the most common Armenian phrases, but there are many more of them in the Armenian language. After studying these phrases, you may experience a kind of cultural shock, as some of these idioms may seem strange and even creepy at first. But after talking to the locals, you will begin to understand the true meaning of these phrases and delve deeper into the unique culture of Armenia. You can also try and find the versions of these phrases in your native language, thus creating an experience of cultural exchange.
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