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  What it means

  Literally “as if on pins,” this is the exact equivalent of the English “on pins and needles.” it describes a state of intense nervousness, anxiety, or impatient waiting. Someone “sitting on pins” cannot relax because they are anticipating important news or a stressful event.

  Vocabulary

  • szpilka — pin / needle / stiletto heel
  • nerwowy — nervous
  • czekać — to wait
  • niepokój — anxiety

  Grammar note

  'Na szpilkach' is the locative plural of 'szpilka.' In modern Polish, 'szpilki' is also the most common word for high-heeled stiletto shoes, but in this idiom, it refers to the sharp sewing pins.

  Cultural context

  You will often hear the phrase "siedzieć jak na szpilkach" (to sit as if on pins). It’s a very common way to describe the atmosphere in a waiting room or before a big exam.

  Beginner

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