Signification
Accept both good and bad.
Contexte culturel
The phrase reflects the Danish value of 'forventningsafstemning' (alignment of expectations). Danes prefer to be realistic about downsides rather than ignoring them. Similar versions exist in Swedish and Norwegian, showing a shared Nordic stoicism and connection to nature/harvesting. Using this phrase in a job interview when asked about challenges shows that you are a pragmatic and resilient candidate. Parents often use this to teach children that they cannot have the fun without the effort (e.g., playing with toys vs. cleaning them up).
Use it to end a complaint
If you have been complaining for a minute, use this phrase to show you aren't just a whiner and that you understand life's balance.
Grammar Trap
Don't forget the 'e' at the end of 'sure' and 'søde'. Without it, the phrase sounds broken.
Signification
Accept both good and bad.
Use it to end a complaint
If you have been complaining for a minute, use this phrase to show you aren't just a whiner and that you understand life's balance.
Grammar Trap
Don't forget the 'e' at the end of 'sure' and 'søde'. Without it, the phrase sounds broken.
The 'Pyt' Connection
Pair this with the word 'Pyt' for maximum Danish points. 'Det regner... pyt, man må tage det sure med det søde!'
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing words to complete the proverb.
Man må tage det ____ med det ____.
The adjectives must have the -e ending to function as nouns in this idiom.
Which situation best fits the proverb?
Which of these people would most likely say 'Man må tage det sure med det søde'?
The proverb is used for situations with both a positive and a negative side.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Jeg elsker min nye lejlighed, men den ligger på 5. sal uden elevator.' B: '____'
This is the most natural and culturally appropriate response to a 'mixed' situation.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
The Balance of Life
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesMan må tage det ____ med det ____.
The adjectives must have the -e ending to function as nouns in this idiom.
Which of these people would most likely say 'Man må tage det sure med det søde'?
The proverb is used for situations with both a positive and a negative side.
A: 'Jeg elsker min nye lejlighed, men den ligger på 5. sal uden elevator.' B: '____'
This is the most natural and culturally appropriate response to a 'mixed' situation.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
5 questionsYes, but it's much less common. The traditional order starts with the 'sour' to emphasize the endurance.
It's neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
No, in this context 'sure' means 'sour' (the taste), representing unpleasant things.
Yes, Swedish and Norwegian have very similar versions, though the exact words might vary slightly.
No, it's best for minor or moderate inconveniences. Using it for a tragedy can seem cold.
Expressions liées
Ingen roser uden torne
similarNo roses without thorns.
Efter regn kommer solskin
similarAfter rain comes sunshine.
At bide i det sure æble
builds onTo bite into the sour apple.
Det er ikke lutter lagkage
contrastIt's not all layer cake.
