10. DOU UM BOI PRA NÃO ENTRAR NUMA BRIGA, E UMA BOIADA PRA NÃO SAIR DELA

This one is a whole phrase, it’s complete as they come, “dou um boi pra não entrar numa briga, e uma boiada pra não sair dela”.

The meaning of it?

I give an ox not to step in a fight, and an entire herd not to step out of it.

Now, does it have anything to do with the ox? No! Of course, not! You’re getting the way of how Brazilian expressions work, aren’t you, dear foreign?

It simply means someone will make an effort not to get in a fight, but they’ll make extra effort not to leave it once they’re in.

Usually this one is said by people who are normally calm and try their best to stay out of conflict, but once they’re forced to take part, they’ll be fiercely fighting back, taking to the last consequences.

Now, I don’t use this one much, not only because I am all about making all the efforts to stay out of a fight, but also because I’d be pretty useless if I ever found myself in one. What can I say, I’m a softy. I’d give an ox not to get in a fight, period. Nothing after that.

So, since I know how people who are truly avoiding clashes act about clashes – being one of the avoiders and all – I gotta call BS on this one. Sounds to me like a self-proclamation of bravery from the ones who claim they don’t want to fight, but are getting their herd ready to pick a fight.

My opinion, of course, but they do seem wildcats ready to get out of the cage.

In any case, the whole expression is pretty much a warning of “don’t push too much, buddy” that you could use to avoid trouble with a troublemaker or repel the agitators if you’re the troublemaker. (No judgements)

What I can say to you is no oxen or cows or bulls required to stay around, just keep coming here and, you know, having an occasional laugh, that’s more than enough. You can keep your herd for another moment.

Till tomorrow,

expressionada.