Example: Man sollte bei der Kritik immer die Kirche im Dorf lassen.
Definition
"Die Kirche im Dorf lassen" is a German idiom meaning to keep things in perspective or to not exaggerate a situation. It advises maintaining a balanced view and avoiding overreaction, as in the example phrase where criticism should be measured and reasonable.
Translations
not exaggerate
no exagerar
de kerk in het midden laten
no exagerar
garder le sens des proportions
Etymology
The phrase "die Kirche im Dorf lassen" literally means 'to leave the church in the village.' It originates from the idea that the church, a central and stable part of a village, should not be moved or disturbed unnecessarily. Did you know? This idiom humorously suggests that one should keep things as they are, avoiding unnecessary exaggeration or change.
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"Die Kirche im Dorf lassen" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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not exaggerate