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  What it means

  Literally “to wash one’s hands.” This means to refuse any further involvement in a situation or to dodge responsibility for an outcome. It is a declaration that “this is no longer my problem” or “I am not to blame for what happens next.”

  Vocabulary

  • myć / umywać — to wash
  • ręce — hands
  • odpowiedzialność — responsibility

  Grammar note

  'Ręce' is the accusative plural of 'ręka'. In this idiom, 'umywać' (imperfective) is often used to describe the ongoing act of distancing oneself.

  Cultural context

  This is a direct biblical reference to Pontius Pilate washing his hands to signal he was not responsible for the crucifixion of Jesus. Because Poland is traditionally a Catholic country, this reference is very deeply embedded in the language.

  Beginner

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