Święta Katarzyna śmiechem, święty Andrzej grzechem
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What it means
“Saint Catherine with laughter, Saint Andrew with sin.” Catherine’s feast (25 November) is still a time for merriment, but by Andrew’s Day (30 November) Advent has fully begun and revelry becomes sinful.
Vocabulary
- święta — saint (feminine)
- śmiech — laughter
- święty — saint (masculine)
- Andrzej — Andrew
- grzech — sin
Grammar note
'Śmiechem' and 'grzechem' are instrumental case forms, indicating manner or accompaniment.
Cultural context
The proverb marks the transition from the last days of pre-Advent festivity (Catherine, 25 November) to the penitential Advent season (Andrew, 30 November).
Intermediate
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