When a matter is completed and success is guaranteed, the expression “Delo v shlyape” (The matter is in the hat) is often used in Russian. How can this phraseology be correctly translated into Ukrainian? Let's consider several translation options together with WomanEL — from literal to stylistically adapted equivalents.
ContentLiteral translationUkrainian equivalentsOrigin of expressionCultural adaptation
Literal translation
If we translate literally, we get “A matter in a hat.” However, in Ukrainian it does not have the same meaning, so a more natural equivalent is needed.
The matter is in the hat: the meaning of the Russian expression and the Ukrainian equivalent. Source: pinterest.com
Ukrainian equivalents
To convey the same meaning, you can use the following fixed expressions:
- “The matter is done” is the simplest option that preserves the meaning.
- “Fish on a hook” – when the result is obvious and in your favor.
- “A hen in a nest, and an egg in your hand” – a colorful phraseologism that conveys the idea that everything has already been successful.
- “Like butter” – used when everything happened easily and without problems.
Origin of the expression
The phrase “It's all in the hat” appeared back in the days of Tsarist Russia. It comes from the tradition of keeping trophies won on a hunt in a hat. There is also a version that the expression comes from a medieval tradition. Judges and officials had a special hat in which they put documents or bribes. Therefore, if the matter is already “in the hat”, then everything is decided.
Cultural adaptation
In the Ukrainian context, it is more appropriate to use expressions related to the completion of the process, confidence in success, or obtaining a result. For example, “Hand on the pulse” – for situations when control over events is not lost, or “The matter is resolved” – to indicate completion.
Depending on the context, you can choose a more neutral or figurative translation option, while preserving the main essence of the expression.
Also learn about the origin of the Russian phrase “The evening ceases to be languid” and how to translate it into Ukrainian.
