Co wolno wojewodzie, to nie tobie, smrodzie
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What it means
Literally “what the governor may do, you may not, you stinker.” Means rules apply differently to those in power — what’s permitted for the powerful is forbidden for ordinary people. A sardonic comment on double standards.
Vocabulary
- wolno — it is permitted / allowed
- wojewoda — governor / voivode
- smród — stench / stinker (insult)
Grammar note
'Wojewodzie' and 'tobie' are dative forms — 'it is permitted to the governor / to you.' 'Smrodzie' is vocative of 'smród,' used as a contemptuous address.
Cultural context
A classic Polish proverb about social inequality and the privileges of power. Still very much in use in political commentary.
Intermediate
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