Ins Fettnäpfchen greifen
Example: Er griff bei der Diskussion ins Fettnäpfchen und beleidigte alle.
Definition
"Ins Fettnäpfchen greifen" is a German idiom meaning to accidentally say or do something embarrassing or tactless, often offending others unintentionally. For example, it describes a situation where someone makes a social blunder during a conversation or discussion.
Etymology
The phrase "ins Fettnäpfchen greifen" literally translates to "to reach into the little fat pot." Historically, a 'Fettnäpfchen' was a small container of grease used for household purposes, and stepping into it would be messy and unpleasant. Over time, it came to symbolize making a social mistake or blunder. Did you know this idiom humorously suggests someone 'sticking their hand into a greasy pot,' metaphorically indicating a slip-up?
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"Ins Fettnäpfchen greifen" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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put one's foot in it