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  What it means

  Literally “to a wise head, two words are enough,” this is the Polish version of “a word to the wise is sufficient.” It means that an intelligent person doesn’t need a lengthy explanation; a small hint or a brief mention is enough for them to understand. It is often used to end an explanation once the point has been made, or to compliment someone’s quick wit.

  Vocabulary

  • mądry — wise
  • dość — enough
  • dwie — two (feminine)
  • słowie — words (archaic form)

  Grammar note

  This proverb contains archaic grammar; 'dwie słowie' uses an old dual number form that is no longer used in modern Polish (where it would be 'dwa słowa'). 'Mądrej głowie' is in the dative case, indicating the recipient of the "enough" status.

  Cultural context

  Because of its archaic structure, this proverb sounds very traditional and classic. Using it shows a high level of cultural integration and appreciation for traditional Polish wisdom.

  Intermediate

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