Signification
people behave differently in different places
Contexte culturel
In Poland, taking off shoes when entering someone's home is a very strong 'obyczaj'. If a foreigner forgets, a Pole might say 'co kraj, to obyczaj' to be polite, but they will still expect you to learn the rule! Poles often use this phrase when discussing Japanese work culture or social etiquette, which is seen as very different from the more relaxed Polish social style. The 'no cappuccino after noon' rule is a classic example where Poles use this phrase to explain Italian culinary strictness. Poles often find the American tipping culture or the 'how are you' greeting (which isn't a real question) confusing, using this phrase to categorize these behaviors.
Use it as a 'Verbal Shrug'
When you don't know how to explain a weird tradition, just say this phrase with a smile. It makes you look very culturally competent.
Don't over-decline
Keep 'kraj' and 'obyczaj' in their basic forms. Adding endings will break the proverb's rhythm.
Signification
people behave differently in different places
Use it as a 'Verbal Shrug'
When you don't know how to explain a weird tradition, just say this phrase with a smile. It makes you look very culturally competent.
Don't over-decline
Keep 'kraj' and 'obyczaj' in their basic forms. Adding endings will break the proverb's rhythm.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb.
Co kraj, to _______.
The standard form of the proverb always uses 'obyczaj'.
Which situation best fits the proverb 'co kraj, to obyczaj'?
Select the best scenario:
The proverb is used to acknowledge cultural differences in behavior.
Fill in the missing part of the dialogue.
Marek: 'W tym kraju wszyscy piją herbatę z mlekiem. Dziwne, prawda?' Kasia: 'No cóż, _______.'
Kasia is using the proverb to explain that different countries have different habits.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesCo kraj, to _______.
The standard form of the proverb always uses 'obyczaj'.
Select the best scenario:
The proverb is used to acknowledge cultural differences in behavior.
Marek: 'W tym kraju wszyscy piją herbatę z mlekiem. Dziwne, prawda?' Kasia: 'No cóż, _______.'
Kasia is using the proverb to explain that different countries have different habits.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
2 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
Yes, but 'co dom, to obyczaj' might be more accurate for personal/family habits.
Expressions liées
co dom, to obyczaj
similarEvery house has its own rules.
co głowa, to rozum
similarEvery person has their own way of thinking.
wolnoć Tomku w swoim domku
builds onA man's home is his castle (you can do what you want in your own space).
