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  What it means

  If the stork arrives by Saint Joseph’s day (19 March), there will be no more snow. The stork’s return is a classic herald of spring in Polish tradition.

  Vocabulary

  • bociek — stork (affectionate/diminutive form of 'bocian')
  • przybyć — to arrive, to come
  • śnieg — snow

  Grammar note

  'Przybędzie' is perfective future of 'przybyć'. 'Już nie będzie' — 'już' adds the sense of 'any more, from now on'.

  Cultural context

  The white stork (bocian biały) is one of the most beloved symbols of Polish spring and rural life. Its arrival from Africa was eagerly awaited and carefully noted. Saint Joseph's day (19 March) was considered an early but hopeful marker for the end of winter.

  Beginner

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