Mulang iwak nglangi
/jv/Source Language: The language or dialect this term originates from (JV).Definition & Context
An expression describing the act of teaching or advising someone about something they already master, making the action seem futile or unnecessary.
Synonyms & Variants
buang-buang waktu
A phrase meaning to waste time doing something unimportant or unproductive. Emphasizes the futility aspect of the action.
mengajari itik berenang
An idiom describing the act of teaching or advising someone about something they already master, thus appearing futile or unnecessary. Similar to 'mulang iwak nglangi' but using a duck as an analogy.
menggarami air laut
An idiom meaning to do something futile or useless, because the results will not be visible or will not have a significant impact. A similar concept of futility.
percuma
Unpaid; free.
Usage Notes or Etymology
Mulang iwak nglangi comes from Javanese, literally meaning 'teaching fish to swim'. The expression refers to a futile action since fish naturally know how to swim. Figuratively, this idiom is used to criticize someone who tries to teach or advise a person who already possesses far superior knowledge or skills. It emphasizes the foolishness or arrogance of the teacher and the superior knowledge or skill of the person being taught.
Real-world Usage
Ngajarin dia soal coding mah kayak mulang iwak nglangi aja.
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.