Example: Siempre está en el ajo cuando hay problemas en la escuela.
Definition
"Estar en el ajo" is a Spanish idiomatic expression meaning to be involved or well-informed about a situation, especially one that is secret or complicated. For example, someone who "está en el ajo" knows what is going on behind the scenes.
Translations
to be in the know
van de hoed en de rand weten
estar al cas
être dans le coup
eingeweiht sein
Etymology
The phrase "estar en el ajo" literally translates to "to be in the garlic," but its meaning is figurative. It likely comes from the idea of being inside the thick of something, as garlic is often a key ingredient in cooking, symbolizing involvement. The exact origin is uncertain, but it has been used in Spanish for centuries to indicate being privy to a matter.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Estar en el ajo" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C2) - parte 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to be in the know