Example: Mit diesem Projekt kommen wir einfach auf keinen grünen Zweig.
Definition
"Auf keinen grünen Zweig kommen" is a German idiom meaning to fail to make progress or to not achieve success, especially after considerable effort. For example, in the phrase 'Mit diesem Projekt kommen wir einfach auf keinen grünen Zweig,' it indicates that the project is not advancing or succeeding.
Translations
get nowhere
no salir adelante
geen stap verder komen
no sortir-se'n
ne mener à rien
Etymology
The phrase "auf keinen grünen Zweig kommen" literally translates to 'to not come onto a green branch.' It likely originates from the image of climbing a tree and failing to reach a fresh, green branch, symbolizing success or a good outcome. This idiom has been used in German for centuries to express the frustration of not making headway.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Auf keinen grünen Zweig kommen" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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get nowhere