From Iceland — Just Sayings: "Of Seint Í Rassinn Gripið"

Just Sayings: “Of Seint Í Rassinn Gripið”

Published October 25, 2019

Just Sayings: “Of Seint Í Rassinn Gripið”
Valur Grettisson

Here’s one idiom that suddenly became inflammatory because of #MeToo. It literally means “too late to grab that ass.” I kid you not. This is the exact translation. Of course, it’s not about a missed opportunity to sexually harassing someone, it simply means that it’s too late to do something now. It’s origin is from the 16th century and is believed to be connected to saving someone that is drowning at sea. That is, it’s too late to grab his body to haul him from the depths of the crushing Atlantic ocean. So, use this one with care, and don’t grab anyone’s ass, unless they’re drowning.

Support The Reykjavík Grapevine!
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!

Show Me More!