De koe bij de horens vatten
Example: Je moet de koe bij de horens vatten en het probleem oplossen.
Definition
"De koe bij de horens vatten" is a Dutch expression meaning to confront a problem or challenge directly and decisively. It suggests taking control of a difficult situation without hesitation, as in the example phrase: 'Je moet de koe bij de horens vatten en het probleem oplossen.'
Etymology
The phrase "de koe bij de horens vatten" literally translates to 'grab the cow by the horns.' It originates from the practical wisdom of handling a stubborn cow by taking hold of its horns to control it. Did you know? This vivid metaphor has been used in Dutch for centuries to encourage decisive action.
Learn to use this expression actively
"De koe bij de horens vatten" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 100 commonly used expressions.
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to take the bull by the horns