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  What it means

  Literally: “You will not break through a wall with your head.” Stubbornness and force will not solve every problem. Use it to advise someone to stop fighting an impossible obstacle and try a better approach.

  English equivalent

  Don't beat your head against a brick wall.

  Vocabulary

  • głową — with your head (instrumental of 'głowa')
  • muru — wall (genitive of 'mur')
  • nie przebijesz — you won't break through (perfective future negative of 'przebić')

  Grammar note

  'Przebić' is a perfective verb meaning to pierce or break through. 'Głową' is instrumental, showing what is used to do the action. 'Muru' is genitive, the form required here after the negated verb.

  Cultural context

  This is common everyday Polish. It can describe a rigid office, an unfair rule, or any situation that will not change. The image of headbutting a wall makes the point clear.

  Beginner

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