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  What it means

  Literally “to have a scythe,” this is a slang expression meaning to be in a sharp conflict, feud, or “beef” with someone. It suggests a state of mutual hostility where two people are not on speaking terms. You would use this when explaining why you can’t invite two specific people to the same party.

  Vocabulary

  • kosa — scythe
  • konflikt — conflict
  • wróg — enemy
  • kłótnia — quarrel

  Grammar note

  Usually used in the construction 'mieć kosę z kimś' (to have a scythe with someone). The person you are feuding with must be in the instrumental case after the preposition 'z.'

  Cultural context

  The imagery of the scythe—a sharp, cutting tool—perfectly captures the "sharpness" of the disagreement. While common among youth, it is understood by most Poles as a sign of a serious fallout.

  Intermediate

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