Example: Ze willen de zaak in de doofpot stoppen om problemen te vermijden.
Definition
"De zaak in de doofpot stoppen" means to deliberately hide or cover up an issue or problem, often to avoid trouble or negative consequences. It implies suppressing information so that the matter is not discussed or revealed publicly.
Translations
to cover something up
encubrir un asunto
amagar un afer
étouffer l'affaire
etwas vertuschen
insabbiare la faccenda
abafar o caso
Etymology
The phrase "de zaak in de doofpot stoppen" originates from Dutch, where 'doofpot' literally means 'extinguishing pot' or a container used to put out embers. Metaphorically, it suggests putting something out like a fire, meaning to suppress or hide an issue. Did you know it evokes the image of snuffing out a fire to prevent it from spreading, much like hiding a problem to avoid its consequences?
Learn to use this expression actively
"De zaak in de doofpot stoppen" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to cover something up