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  What it means

  Literally “water hen.” The moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) — a common water bird. Used colloquially as a mild exclamation of surprise or frustration — a polite substitute for stronger expletives. “Good grief,” “for goodness’ sake.”

  Vocabulary

  • kurka — little hen (diminutive of kura)
  • wodna — water (adjective, feminine)

  Grammar note

  Used as a standalone exclamation. The bird name serves as a euphemistic expletive.

  Cultural context

  One of many Polish euphemistic exclamations that substitute an innocent word for a vulgar one — 'kurka wodna' avoids the obvious.

  Beginner

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