Example: Je moet soms de hand in eigen boezem steken en toegeven.
Definition
"De hand in eigen boezem steken" is a Dutch expression meaning to acknowledge one's own mistakes or faults before criticizing others. It implies self-reflection and taking responsibility for one's own actions, as in the example phrase: 'Je moet soms de hand in eigen boezem steken en toegeven.'
Translations
to admit one's own faults
hacer autocrítica
fer autocrítica
faire son autocritique
sich an die eigene Nase fassen
mettere la mano nella propria coscienza
assumir a responsabilidade
Etymology
The phrase "de hand in eigen boezem steken" literally means 'to put the hand into one's own breast' in Dutch. It figuratively suggests looking inward at oneself. This expression likely originated from the idea of placing a hand over the heart or chest to symbolize personal accountability and honesty. Did you know it encourages self-examination before blaming others?
Learn to use this expression actively
"De hand in eigen boezem steken" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to admit one's own faults