Kruk krukowi oka nie wykole
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What it means
“A crow will not poke out another crow’s eye.” People of the same kind, especially those engaged in shady dealings, protect and cover for each other.
English equivalent
There is honour among thieves.
Vocabulary
- kruk — raven, crow
- oko — eye
- wykłuć — to poke out, to gouge
Grammar note
'Krukowi' is dative of 'kruk' (indirect object). 'Oka' is genitive of 'oko' used after a negated verb.
Cultural context
One of the most common Polish proverbs. Used to criticise solidarity among corrupt officials, criminals, or any closed group that shields its members.
Intermediate
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