Example: Bevor wir investieren, prüfen wir das Projekt auf Herz und Nieren.
Definition
"Etwas auf Herz und Nieren prüfen" means to thoroughly and carefully examine or test something to ensure its reliability, quality, or effectiveness, often before making an important decision or investment.
Translations
examine thoroughly
examinar a fondo
door en door testen
examinar a fons
passer au crible
Etymology
The phrase "etwas auf Herz und Nieren prüfen" originates from the German language, where "Herz" means heart and "Nieren" means kidneys. Historically, these organs were considered vital indicators of health. To check something 'on heart and kidneys' metaphorically means to test it as thoroughly as a doctor would examine a patient's most important organs. Did you know this expression reflects the old medical practice of assessing overall health by closely inspecting these organs?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Etwas auf Herz und Nieren prüfen" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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examine thoroughly