Is there an expression in your own language that you use when you see someone who is busy working? In Turkish, we say “kolay gelsin.”  It literally means “May it be easy for you” or “Hope your work goes smoothly.” The usual reply is “Teşekkür ederim,” “Sağ ol," or "Sağ olun.”  (Thank you.) This short and friendly expression is one of the most commonly used everyday phrases in Turkish. It is said to wish that someone’s work goes smoothly and without difficulty. It can be sai

Meaning: In Turkish, eli açık  literally means “open-handed” and is a figurative expression used as a synonym for cömert (generous), describing someone who is generous with money, gifts, or treats. Usage: This expression is commonly applied to people who spend or give freely , especially in financial or social generosity , such as supporting those in need, paying for friends, giving gifts, or sharing food . Note that being eli açık  doesn’t require great wealth and does not

Meaning Soft-hearted; very kind and easily moved  It is used to describe someone who is very kind, soft-hearted, and easily moved emotionally. It is often used for people who cannot hurt others and feel compassion quickly. Literal meaning With a heart like yufka — a very thin and soft type of dough used in Turkish cuisine, as shown in the image below. Royalty-free image from Pixabay. Example sentences: Anneler yufka yürekli olurlar. → Mothers tend to be soft-hearted. Deniz ço

İnşallah  (i'nşallah) and maşallah (ma:şallah) are two everyday expressions you’ll hear constantly in Turkish. They come from Arabic, but in modern Turkish they are used naturally by everyone, regardless of their background. For learners, the challenge is knowing when  each one is appropriate, and how to use them naturally in real-life situations. Below is a clear, practical guide to what they mean, how they differ, and the most common situations where you’ll hear them. Wha

Proverbs, idioms, and sayings play an important role in every language and culture. Many Turkish proverbs and idioms have close equivalents in English, even though they are expressed with different words. In this post, you will find a carefully selected collection of Turkish proverbs, idioms, and sayings with their English equivalents. In some cases, alternative equivalents may exist in American and British English. Instead of literal word-for-word translations, the focus is

(Image source unknown) This is a traditional Turkish expression said to newly married couples. Literally, it means “May God let you age on the same pillow.” In the old days, it was common for husbands and wives to share a single, long pillow that stretched across the bed, as you can see in the picture above. So the phrase not only reflects love and togetherness but also paints a picture of family life in our grandparents’ time. Do you know any similar sayings for newly marrie