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  What it means

  Literally “one hand washes the other.” This idiom refers to a situation where two people help each other out, usually through mutual favors. While it can be neutral, it often carries a hint of suspicion, implying that the two people are involved in something shady, like nepotism or corruption.

  Vocabulary

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

  Grammar note

  This is a perfect example of case contrast: 'Ręka' (nominative - the subject) 'rękę' (accusative - the object) 'myje' (washes).

  Cultural context

  This is a very old proverb that exists in many languages, but in Poland, it is frequently used in political discussions and media when reporting on "backroom deals."

  Beginner

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