Auf Granit beißen
Example: Trotz aller Bemühungen biss das Projekt letztlich auf Granit.
Definition
"Auf Granit beißen" is a German idiom meaning to encounter persistent difficulties or obstacles that prevent progress, akin to biting into granite and being unable to break through. It describes a situation where efforts fail despite repeated attempts, such as in the phrase 'Trotz aller Bemühungen biss das Projekt letztlich auf Granit.'
Etymology
The idiom "auf Granit beißen" literally translates as 'to bite on granite.' It originates from the metaphor of trying to bite something as hard and unyielding as granite, symbolizing an insurmountable challenge or resistance. Did you know? This vivid image highlights the futility and frustration of persistent but unsuccessful efforts.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Auf Granit beißen" 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
get nowhere