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  What it means

  Literally “on one’s feet/legs,” this phrase describes being up and about — standing, active, or recovered from illness. “Jestem na nogach od 6 rano” means “I’ve been on my feet since 6 in the morning.” After being sick, a Pole might say “Już jestem na nogach” — “I’m up and about again.” It can also describe being exhausted from standing or walking all day.

  Vocabulary

  • nogach — legs, feet (locative plural of 'noga')
  • noga — leg, foot

  Grammar note

  The noun 'noga' (feminine) appears in its locative plural form 'nogach' after the preposition 'na'. Locative plural of most feminine nouns ending in -a takes the ending -ach. The phrase can function as a predicate adjective: 'Jestem na nogach' (I am on my feet).

  Cultural context

  This is a very common, casual expression. Poles use it to mean both literally standing and figuratively being active or recovered. It maps closely to the English phrase 'on one's feet.' The expression 'być na nogach' is also used to mean being exhausted after a long day of walking.

  Beginner

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