To struggle like the devil in a holy water basin.
Resisting like mad
He raged like a devil in a holy water basin when the officers tried to take him back to the cell.
This phrase refers to someone vehemently resisting or struggling intensely, akin to a devil trying to escape from a holy water basin, implying a strong and fervent reaction.
Tekeer gaan als een duivel in een wijwatervat:
Hij ging tekeer als een duivel in een wijwatervat toen de agenten hem weer naar de cel wilden brengen.
Tekeer gaan als een duivel in een wijwatervat:
verwijst naar een renner die hemel en aarde beweegt om te kunnen ontsnappen.
“Struggling like a devil in a holy water basin” is an idiom or metaphor that conveys a sense of being in a difficult or challenging situation despite being in a supposedly safe or favorable environment. The key points or meanings of this phrase can include:
Intense struggle: The phrase “struggling like a devil” implies a strenuous, arduous, or desperate effort to overcome obstacles or difficulties. It suggests that the struggle is fierce, difficult, and persistent.
Contradiction or irony: The phrase “in a holy water basin” adds a contradictory or ironic element to the expression. Holy water is often associated with purity, sanctity, or protection, as it is used in religious rituals to bless or cleanse. However, the devil is often considered evil or malevolent, and the image of a devil struggling in a holy water basin suggests a clash or incongruity between opposing forces.
Frustration or futility: The phrase may also convey a sense of frustration or futility in the struggle, as the devil is typically depicted as a powerful and cunning being, but is unable to prevail in the holy water basin, which is supposed to be a safe place for him. It can indicate a feeling of being trapped, helpless, or unable to make progress despite putting in effort.
Paradox or paradoxical situation: The phrase can highlight a paradoxical or contradictory situation where one finds themselves in a seemingly favorable or advantageous position, but still faces significant challenges or difficulties. It can also point to a situation where one’s actions or efforts are self-defeating or counterproductive, leading to a struggle despite being in a supposedly advantageous position.
Overall, the key points of “struggling like a devil in a holy water basin” revolve around the idea of intense struggle, contradiction, frustration, futility, and paradox in a seemingly favorable or safe environment.
1 Rowan Atkinson: Toby the Devil – We Are Most Amused and Amazed
2 Fugitive Transforms Into Mannequin- Just For Laughs Gags
22 jan. 2013