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General Forums => The O' Club => Topic started by: jodgi on September 01, 2010, 09:53:48 AM

Title: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: jodgi on September 01, 2010, 09:53:48 AM
I'm at a loss finding a word, phrase or idiom that substitutes a certain Norwegian idiom.

In Norway, we say (directly translated): To put [an issue] on the pointy edge.

It means to both exaggerate and simplify [the issue] in order to get the general message across. You exaggerate or paint the message in strong colors whilst overlooking the small and insignificant aspects.

An example could be: "To put it on the pointy edge; most people playing AH are geeks."

heh, I'm sorry to insult the sophisticated individuals in here, but the idiom is often used to make provocative or sarcastic remarks.

Would it work to say: "To put it pointedly" or "pointedly put"? Or am I making things up?
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: tmetal on September 01, 2010, 09:58:29 AM
It sounds to me like the nearest phrase here in texas is "to put it bluntly".  I know it seems odd that yours mentions on the point and mine is blunt, but oh well.
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: WMLute on September 01, 2010, 10:03:28 AM
"Over the top" almost fits.

as does "Make a mountain out of a mole hill".
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: RTHolmes on September 01, 2010, 10:07:12 AM
to put it bluntly

this :aok
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: Shuffler on September 01, 2010, 10:16:00 AM
"to put it bluntly"

Yup that'll do.  :aok
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: druski85 on September 01, 2010, 10:17:56 AM
Interesting that the same phrase derives from opposite words in each phrase.  (Blunt vs point)
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: gyrene81 on September 01, 2010, 10:21:42 AM
The word "blunt" would not be an exaggeration, it would simply the simple naked truth. The word mild or mildly would be less than blunt, so that won't work. There is a word that has the meaning of exaggerated sarcastic generalization, but I can't think of it right this moment.

 :headscratch:  :headscratch:
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: shiv on September 01, 2010, 10:35:20 AM
"Not to put too fine a point on it" is what i think you're looking for.

not to put too fine a point on it
to mean exactly what is said Her performance, not to put too fine a point on it, was terrible.


"Not to put too fine a point on it, most people who play AH are geeks."
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: jodgi on September 01, 2010, 11:12:44 AM
There is a word that has the meaning of exaggerated sarcastic generalization, but I can't think of it right this moment.

Let me know when you do. :pray
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: Shuffler on September 01, 2010, 12:44:13 PM
De Minimis
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: Lusche on September 01, 2010, 12:47:29 PM
I'm at a loss finding a word, phrase or idiom that substitutes a certain Norwegian idiom.

In Norway, we say (directly translated): To put [an issue] on the pointy edge.

It means to both exaggerate and simplify [the issue] in order to get the general message across. You exaggerate or paint the message in strong colors whilst overlooking the small and insignificant aspects.

We have the same phrase in German "etwas auf den Punkt bringen"

I think "To put it in a nutshell" or "to get to the heart of something" would be the best translations.
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: Dragon on September 01, 2010, 12:47:55 PM
The word "blunt" would not be an exaggeration, it would simply the simple naked truth. The word mild or mildly would be less than blunt, so that won't work. There is a word that has the meaning of exaggerated sarcastic generalization, but I can't think of it right this moment.

 :headscratch:  :headscratch:


Satirical ??
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: WMLute on September 01, 2010, 12:49:07 PM
We have the same phrase in German "etwas auf den Punkt bringen"

I think close translations would be "To put it in a nutshell" or "to get to the heart of something".


"In a nutshell" and "Get to the heart of the matter" are both fairly commonly used phrases in the U.S.
Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: jodgi on September 01, 2010, 01:13:46 PM

"In a nutshell" and "Get to the heart of the matter" are both fairly commonly used phrases in the U.S.

Those, and most other suggestions would work and communicate the following message adequately.
I'm looking for something with a little more finesse. Maybe playful or tongue in cheek.

Usually, I find myself looking for a Norwegian term that could substitute an english idiom. I think the english language is far more abundant with colorful phrases than my own language, both intelligent and low brow variants.
I bet you guys have the equivalent to what I've mentioned at the top.

I remember listening to a radio interview with some american writer who commented on one of his characters: "He's in a place the buses don't go…" - Priceless :P

Title: Re: Translation help, idioms.
Post by: Blooz on September 01, 2010, 01:20:44 PM
Frankly speaking.

To be frank.