Tenir la paella pel mànec
Example: És millor tenir la paella pel mànec quan cuines amb oli calent.
Definition
"Tenir la paella pel mànec" is a Catalan expression meaning to have control or authority over a situation, similar to having the upper hand. It literally means 'to hold the frying pan by the handle,' implying being in charge or managing things effectively.
Etymology
The phrase "tenir la paella pel mànec" originates from the literal action of holding a frying pan by its handle, which is the proper and safe way to handle it while cooking. Over time, this practical advice evolved into a metaphor for maintaining control or dominance in various contexts, reflecting how holding the handle gives one command over the pan.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Tenir la paella pel mànec" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 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 Catalan as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account
To have the upper hand