Example: We moeten er geen gras over laten groeien en snel beslissen.
Definition
"Er geen gras over laten groeien" is a Dutch expression meaning to act without delay or procrastination, often used when a decision or action needs to be taken quickly, as in the example phrase: We moeten er geen gras over laten groeien en snel beslissen.
Translations
to waste no time
no perder el tiempo
no perdre temps
ne pas perdre de temps
keine Zeit verlieren
non rimandare
não deixar para depois
Etymology
The phrase "er geen gras over laten groeien" literally translates to 'not letting grass grow over it,' suggesting that no time should be wasted. It originates from the idea that if grass grows over something, it indicates neglect or delay. Did you know this vivid metaphor encourages promptness by implying that delay allows grass to grow, symbolizing inactivity?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Er geen gras over laten groeien" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 100 commonly used expressions.
Would you like to not only understand these expressions, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select Dutch as the language you want to learn.
to waste no time