Lit. “warm water in the tap” is a phrase coming from Polish politics and used almost exclusively in that area. It describes a policy concentrating on economic development which should make the citizens comfortable and happy – as opposed to big words, empty phrases that don’t make a Jan Kowalski any happier.
Lit. “under the thatch” is an old Polish expression meaning that something is becoming popular among the common folk, usually following an adoption by better-off or well-educated people.
Meaning:
Lit. “to step in front of the orchestra” is a figurative way to say that someone is too bold and is overreaching which might result in a bitter failure.
Lit. “a forest of hands” is an ironic comment used if you ask for volunteers and no one raises their hand to offer their help. Most Poles learn it in primary school – and for many this might actually be the first instance of irony in their life.
Lit. “to have a (strong) back”. In Polish, this expression has at least two metaphorical meanings. In most cases, this means: to have a strong political backing/support in your organisation, powerful friends that will help you in need.
