ins Gras beißen

/ɪns ɡʁaːs ˈbaɪsn̩/◆idiom

to die

Nach einem langen Leben ist er ins Gras gebissen.

After a long life, he has passed away.

◆ What It Really Means

To die, often suddenly or unexpectedly.

¶ Literal Meaning

To bite into the grass.

Literal Breakdown

insinto+Grasgrass+beißento bite

◇ Mental Image

The image of an animal or person falling to the ground and biting the grass as they die.

◈ When to Use

A friend might say, 'Unser Hund ist leider ins Gras gebissen,' to inform you that their dog has passed away.

◉ Cultural Note

This idiom is part of a broader set of German expressions that use animals or nature to talk about death in a less direct way.

informal

To die, especially in a sudden or unexpected way.

Der alte Baum ist im Sturm ins Gras gebissen.

The old tree was uprooted in the storm.

This idiom is often used humorously or euphemistically to refer to death.

Synonyms

sterben versterben das Zeitliche segnen

Antonyms

leben überleben

Related Phrases

das Zeitliche segnenidiom

to die

Pro Tip

Usage Context

This idiom is commonly used in casual conversation and is not typically used in formal or serious discussions about death.

Gold Rule

Tone Consideration

While not offensive, this phrase is best used in informal settings and with people you are comfortable with.

Word Origin

The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it likely comes from hunting or farming, where animals that are shot or killed are said to 'bite the grass' as they fall.

Usage Notes

This phrase is informal and often used in a lighthearted or humorous context to talk about death. It is not considered offensive but may be avoided in very formal or solemn situations.

Word Breakdown

ins

into

preposition

Gras

grass

noun

beißen

to bite

verb

Deutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch

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