Żarty żartami
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What it means
Literally “jokes are jokes.” This phrase is used to signal a shift in tone. It acknowledges that everyone has been having a laugh, but it’s now time to address the serious side of the situation. It’s the verbal equivalent of “all jokes aside.”
Vocabulary
- żart — joke
- poważnie — seriously
Grammar note
This is an elliptical construction—a repetition of the noun 'żart' in the plural nominative and plural instrumental. It is almost always followed by "ale" (but).
Cultural context
Poles have a great sense of humor but also a very pragmatic side. This phrase is the bridge between the two in a conversation.
Intermediate
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