Example: Ik ga zijn licht opsteken bij mijn leraar over het probleem.
Definition
"Zijn licht opsteken bij" means to seek advice or gather information from someone more knowledgeable, often to better understand a problem or situation. For example, one might say, "I will zijn licht opsteken bij my teacher about the problem," implying they will ask for guidance.
Translations
to seek advice from
pedir consejo a
demanar consell a
prendre conseil auprès de
sich Rat holen bei
chiedere consiglio a
pedir conselho a
Etymology
The phrase "zijn licht opsteken bij" literally translates from Dutch as 'to light one's light at' someone, which historically refers to the act of lighting a lamp from another’s flame. This expression metaphorically describes obtaining knowledge or insight from another person, much like sharing light. Did you know this vivid imagery makes asking for advice feel like sparking one’s own understanding?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Zijn licht opsteken bij" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to seek advice from