Er Hing Een Nare Geur Om Het Hart Van De Kool is a Dutch phrase that roughly translates to “There was a foul smell around the heart of the cabbage.” This phrase is often used to describe a situation or person that seems outwardly normal or innocent, but has a hidden or unpleasant aspect to it.
The origins of this phrase are unclear, but it is commonly used in Dutch language to convey a sense of unease or suspicion. Cabbage is a common vegetable in Dutch cuisine, and the heart of the cabbage is the central core that holds the leaves together. The idea of a foul smell coming from the heart of the cabbage suggests that there is something rotten or decaying at the core of a seemingly wholesome object.
In a broader sense, this phrase can be applied to situations in which there is something hidden or unsavory beneath the surface. It serves as a warning to be cautious and not to dismiss things at face value. Just like how a cabbage may appear fresh and healthy on the outside, but be rotting at its core, people or situations may also have hidden flaws or unpleasant aspects.
The phrase can also be used to describe a person who seems innocent or harmless, but is actually deceitful or malicious. It serves as a reminder to not judge a book by its cover and to always be aware of the potential for hidden agendas or ulterior motives.
Overall, Er Hing Een Nare Geur Om Het Hart Van De Kool is a colorful and evocative phrase that captures the idea of hidden unpleasantness or deceit. It serves as a cautionary tale to always be mindful of what lies beneath the surface, and to not be fooled by appearances.