Die Flinte ins Korn werfen
Example: Man darf nicht die Flinte ins Korn werfen, auch bei Rückschlägen.
Definition
"Die Flinte ins Korn werfen" is a German idiom meaning to give up or abandon an effort, especially when facing difficulties or setbacks. It implies quitting prematurely instead of persevering through challenges, as in the example: 'Man darf nicht die Flinte ins Korn werfen, auch bei Rückschlägen.'
Etymology
The phrase "die Flinte ins Korn werfen" literally means 'to throw the shotgun into the grain.' It originates from hunting, where throwing a gun into the grain field symbolized giving up the chase. Over time, it evolved into a metaphor for surrendering or quitting in general life situations.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Die Flinte ins Korn werfen" 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 German as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account