Deveye hendek atlatmak
Literal Translation
To make a camel jump over a ditch.
Meaning and Usage
This idiom is used when someone is being asked to do something very difficult or nearly impossible. It often carries a sense of frustration or disbelief, as if the task goes beyond what can realistically be expected. In everyday conversation, it can describe both physical challenges and complicated demands placed on someone.
It is also sometimes used humorously to exaggerate how unreasonable a request feels.
Example Usage
Turkish
Kızımdan ödevlerini yapmasını istemek, deveye hendek atlatmak gibi.
English
Asking my daughter to do her homework is like trying to make a camel jump over a ditch.
Cultural Note
The image comes from the nature of camels. Camels are strong and enduring animals, but they are not built for jumping, especially over obstacles like ditches. The contrast between the animal’s nature and the task highlights how unrealistic the request is. This kind of imagery is common in Turkish idioms, where everyday animals are used to express human situations in a vivid but grounded way.
Interested in more Turkish idioms and expressions?
Explore the full collection on Learn Turkish with Seda.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does “deveye hendek atlatmak” mean in simple terms?
A: It means asking someone to do something that is extremely difficult or nearly impossible.
Q: Is this idiom used seriously or humorously?
A: It can be used both ways. Sometimes it expresses real frustration, and sometimes it is used lightly to exaggerate a situation.
Q: Can it be used for everyday situations?
A: Yes, it is commonly used in daily speech when a request feels too demanding or unrealistic.
Q: Does it always mean something is impossible?
A: Not always completely impossible, but it suggests that the task is very hard and unlikely to succeed.