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  What it means

  Literally “English phlegm.” Refers to the stereotypical British quality of remaining calm, composed, and unemotional in any situation — the stiff upper lip. Used to describe someone who stays cool under pressure, sometimes admiringly, sometimes as a mild criticism of emotional coldness.

  Vocabulary

  • angielski — English / British
  • flegma — phlegm / composure / imperturbability

  Grammar note

  'Angielska' is the feminine nominative adjective agreeing with 'flegma' (feminine noun). The word 'flegma' comes from the ancient humoral theory — phlegm was associated with a calm, slow temperament.

  Cultural context

  The phrase reflects a long-standing Polish cultural stereotype of the British as reserved and unflappable. It can be used as a compliment ('zachował angielską flegmę' — he kept his cool) or as a dig at emotional distance.

  Intermediate

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