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  What it means

  Literally “one hand washes the other.” This idiom describes two people helping each other, usually through mutual favors. They may protect each other through such favors. It can be neutral, but often suggests that they are involved in something questionable, such as nepotism or corruption.

  Vocabulary

  • ręka — hand
  • myć — to wash
  • układ — arrangement / deal

  Grammar note

  This shows case contrast: 'ręka' is nominative, the subject; 'rękę' is accusative, the object; and 'myje' means "washes."

  Cultural context

  This old proverb exists in many languages, but in Poland it is often used in political discussions and media reports about secret political "backroom deals" and favors.

  Beginner

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