Significado
Trying to convince someone who will not listen.
Contexto cultural
The proverb reflects the 'ξεροκεφαλιά' (stubbornness) often attributed to Greek mountain villagers. It's a point of pride and frustration. In Cyprus, the proverb is used with a similar meaning but often with a slightly different accent and local verbs for 'knocking'. Many Mediterranean cultures share this 'wall/deaf' metaphor, highlighting a communicative style that is high-context and emotionally charged. In the age of 'echo chambers' on social media, this proverb is making a comeback to describe arguing with people who only follow certain algorithms.
The Half-Phrase Trick
In casual conversation, you can just say 'Στου κουφού την πόρτα...' and trail off. Every Greek speaker will know exactly what you mean.
Don't be too literal
If you use this with someone who actually has hearing aids, it will be taken as a very bad joke.
Significado
Trying to convince someone who will not listen.
The Half-Phrase Trick
In casual conversation, you can just say 'Στου κουφού την πόρτα...' and trail off. Every Greek speaker will know exactly what you mean.
Don't be too literal
If you use this with someone who actually has hearing aids, it will be taken as a very bad joke.
Ponte a prueba
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
Στου ______ την πόρτα, όσο θέλεις ______.
The standard proverb uses 'κουφού' (deaf) and 'βρόντα' (thump).
In which situation would you use this proverb?
You are trying to explain to your friend that he shouldn't drive while tired, but he ignores you and starts the car.
This situation involves a stubborn person ignoring life-saving advice.
Complete the dialogue.
Α: Του είπες να μην αγοράσει αυτό το παλιό αυτοκίνητο; Β: Ναι, αλλά ________________.
The context implies the advice was given but ignored.
🎉 Puntuación: /3
Ayudas visuales
Banco de ejercicios
3 ejerciciosΣτου ______ την πόρτα, όσο θέλεις ______.
The standard proverb uses 'κουφού' (deaf) and 'βρόντα' (thump).
You are trying to explain to your friend that he shouldn't drive while tired, but he ignores you and starts the car.
This situation involves a stubborn person ignoring life-saving advice.
Α: Του είπες να μην αγοράσει αυτό το παλιό αυτοκίνητο; Β: Ναι, αλλά ________________.
The context implies the advice was given but ignored.
🎉 Puntuación: /3
Preguntas frecuentes
4 preguntasIt's not exactly rude, but it is dismissive. It implies the other person is being unreasonable.
Only if the atmosphere is very casual. In a formal meeting, it's better to say 'δεν υπάρχει σύγκλιση απόψεων' (there is no convergence of views).
It comes from the verb 'βροντώ', which means to make a loud, thundering noise. Here it means to knock very loudly.
Not really. This proverb is inherently about frustration and failure to communicate.
Frases relacionadas
μιλάω σε ντουβάρια
synonymI am talking to walls.
φωνή βοώντος εν τη ερήμω
similarA voice crying in the wilderness.
ρίχνω νερό στο κόσκινο
similarPouring water into a sieve.
του κάκου
specialized formIn vain.
