Today we look at the meaning of phraseologism "how arshin swallowed." To begin with, the term describes an old measure of length. It is equal to 16 vertices or 71.120012175746 cm.
Ruler
The meaning of the phraseology “how he swallowed arshin” is more related to the second lexical content of this term. It should be considered in more detail. So, arshin is a ruler, the length of which is a wound from 71-72 cm. This measuring tool is divided into vertices. It is worth noting that this is not a flat ruler, but a voluminous, reminiscent of a bar. It should also be noted that merchants often used this simplest measuring object in their work.
Meaning
So, from the foregoing, it is possible to establish the true meaning of phraseologism “as he swallowed arshin”. The lines mentioned above were incredibly solid. Therefore, there was only a theoretical possibility to swallow them. Moreover, to swallow this item, according to the expression, you need to whole. Naturally, after such an act, the body of a person would lose its flexibility and an impeccably mathematically accurate straight-forward would resemble a ruler.
Context
The meaning of the phraseology “how arshin swallowed” depends on the place of its use. Let's look at a few examples. One of the options that describes a hero holding his posture straight and not moving: “What are you standing here like you swallowed arshin”. Also, this expression can be used in relation to a person who is silent for too long. For example: “What is silent? Arshin swallowed? " It should be emphasized that the expression describes exactly the case when someone keeps himself too unnaturally and stretches his body excessively straight.
Often this phraseological unit is used to address people who are excessively arrogant. It can also describe the stiffness of a person. Now you know in what cases you can use the expression "how arshin swallowed." The meaning of phraseology is discussed in detail above.