Suya götürüp susuz getirmek
Literal Translation
It literally means taking someone to water but bringing them back without letting them drink.
Meaning and Usage
This idiom is used for people who are very sharp-minded and strategic. It suggests a level of cleverness where someone can control a situation so skillfully that others do not even realize what has happened.
In daily life, it often describes a person who can manipulate outcomes quietly, solve problems in an unexpected way, or outwit others without open confrontation. The tone can be admiring, but sometimes it also carries a hint of caution, depending on context.
Example Usage
Turkish
O kadar kurnaz ki, adamı suya götürüp susuz getirir.
English
He is so cunning that he could take someone to water and bring them back still thirsty.
Cultural Note
The imagery comes from pastoral life, where leading animals to water is a basic and expected act. Preventing them from drinking despite reaching water suggests an unusual level of control and influence. In traditional storytelling, this idiom is often linked to clever shepherds or villagers who solve problems through intelligence rather than force.
Interested in more Turkish idioms and expressions?
Explore the full collection on Learn Turkish with Seda.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this idiom always positive?
A: Not always. It can praise intelligence, but it can also imply manipulation depending on how it is used.
Q: Can it be used in formal situations?
A: It is mostly used in everyday speech rather than formal writing.
Q: Does it describe intelligence or trickery?
A: It describes both. The emphasis is on cleverness, but often with a slightly tricky or strategic side.
Q: Is it commonly used in modern Turkish?
A: Yes, it is still widely understood and used in conversation.