Mulang iwak nglangi

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Definition & Context

An expression describing the act of teaching or advising someone about something they already master, making the action seem futile or unnecessary.

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

Teaching him about coding is like teaching a fish to swim.

Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.

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Definition & Context

Usage Notes or Etymology

Real-world Usage

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Real-world Usage

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