Signification
Living a very comfortable, safe life.
Contexte culturel
The phrase reflects the deep-seated belief in 'Pokrov' (Protection), the idea that divine forces can physically shield a person from harm. Despite state atheism, this phrase remained popular because it described the life of the 'Nomenklatura' (elite) who had access to special stores and hospitals. In the 90s and 2000s, having a 'krysha' (roof/protection) from the mafia or police was a literal version of this idiom. In villages, the 'pazukha' is still a real concept for carrying small animals or keeping things warm, making the idiom feel very grounded.
Use with 'чувствовать себя'
You can say 'чувствовать себя как у Христа за пазухой' to describe your internal feeling of safety, not just your lifestyle.
Don't over-religiousize it
Russians use this phrase regardless of their faith. Don't worry about offending religious people or sounding too pious.
Signification
Living a very comfortable, safe life.
Use with 'чувствовать себя'
You can say 'чувствовать себя как у Христа за пазухой' to describe your internal feeling of safety, not just your lifestyle.
Don't over-religiousize it
Russians use this phrase regardless of their faith. Don't worry about offending religious people or sounding too pious.
Teste-toi
Complete the sentence with the correct form of the idiom.
Она вышла замуж за доброго миллионера и теперь живёт как у ... за ...
The idiom requires the Genitive 'Христа' and the Instrumental 'пазухой'.
Which person is living 'как у Христа за пазухой'?
Выберите правильную ситуацию:
The idiom describes a life of total security and lack of worries.
Choose the best response for the dialogue.
— Как твой новый кот? — О, он спит на диване и ест только дорогую рыбу. Он ...
The description of the cat's life fits the idiom perfectly.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercicesОна вышла замуж за доброго миллионера и теперь живёт как у ... за ...
The idiom requires the Genitive 'Христа' and the Instrumental 'пазухой'.
Выберите правильную ситуацию:
The idiom describes a life of total security and lack of worries.
— Как твой новый кот? — О, он спит на диване и ест только дорогую рыбу. Он ...
The description of the cat's life fits the idiom perfectly.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
2 questionsNo, it is considered a standard part of the Russian language and is not seen as blasphemous.
It's better for long-term situations, but you can use it for a vacation if you want to emphasize how incredibly well you were treated.
Expressions liées
Как сыр в масле кататься
synonymTo live in great luxury and wealth.
Под крылышком
similarUnder someone's wing/protection.
Как за каменной стеной
similarFeeling completely safe behind someone's back.
Горя не знать
builds onTo not know any grief or trouble.
