10 Maltese expressions that are hilarious when translated in English

Maltese expressions are an integral part of our communication (and drama that comes with it). But, they’re indescribable in any other language, and pretty hilarious when translated. Here are 10 of them!

1. "Nigi naqa’ u nqum minnek"

Translation: I come, I fall and get up from you

Context: Basically it’s used as we would use ‘I couldn’t care less’ in English.

2. "Hadd ma jiehu xejn mieghu"

Translation: Nobody takes anything with him

Context: This refers to death and talks about earthly possessions. Basically importance should be given to relationships rather than material items, because after all, nothing comes along with us to the afterlife (unless you’re an Egyptian Pharaoh that is!)

3. "Holl xaghrek u gib iz-zejt"

Translation: Untie your hair and get the oil

Context: “Shoot, I forgot to hang the clothes!” – “You’d better get it done, because if mum finds out, well, brace yourself!” (It’s not as dramatic as we would like it to be, but you get the gist).

4. "X’int vojt!"

Translation: You’re so empty!

Context: This is used when someone says something stupid, or as we say bla sens, and you clap back with this expression.

5. "Hawwadni ha nifhmek"

Translation: Confuse me so I understand you

Context: When something is so damn hard to understand, us Maltese use this expression to express our confusion of the whole sitch.

6. "Kif dejjem b’xi kallu?"

Translation: But how always with a callous?

Context: Referring to a really annoying person who just won’t get the hint, you express your disbelief at how unlucky you are in these regards.

7. "Qed ittini f’ghajni"

Translation: It’s giving it to me in my eye

Context: This one is used when something is bugging the bejesus out of you, usually referring to a position of an object. “I really don’t like where that vase is placed. Vera, qed itini f’ghajni.”