Colorful Ukrainian idioms: understanding the expression ‘обдерти, як липку’ and other vivid examples of language culture
Since the outbreak of the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war, many Ukrainians have made a significant linguistic choice — they switched from Russian to Ukrainian, aiming to support their identity and spiritual independence.
However, the Ukrainian language is rich not only in vocabulary but also in vivid idioms that reflect the depth of folk wisdom and cultural richness.
One such expression is ‘обдерти, як липку’ — a well-known Ukrainian idiom with a metaphorical meaning.
It describes a situation where someone is completely ‘stripped,’ robbed, leaving nothing — money, property, or reputation.
This can be literal or figurative, for example, being deceived and forced to spend all savings or deliberately left with nothing.
In Ukrainian literature, this idiom appears frequently and is a striking example of expressive speech.
For instance, in Anatoliy Dimarov’s works, it’s mentioned that “Gaiduk stripped everyone, both rich and poor, as липку”, highlighting greed and dishonesty.
Mariо Vovchok also recorded the phrase: “They will strip me now, like липку,” symbolizing a feeling of helplessness and loss.
Besides, many synonyms and similar expressions exist — ‘обібрати до нитки,’ ‘облупити як яйце,’ ‘обскубати як курку,’ ‘left without pants,’ ‘shake like a pear,’ or simply ‘leaving someone penniless or with nothing.’ These expressions serve as vivid examples of folk vernacular and artistic language.
Today, Ukrainians increasingly receive advice and life hacks on how consciously and easily transition from Russian to Ukrainian.
Many have already used these recommendations, despite the challenges involved.
Sociological studies show that under the influence of the war, many Ukrainians have consciously started speaking Ukrainian more actively, aiming to support their country and culture.
The article by Kherson-based journalist and print industry freelancer Volodymyr Shishkov discusses the features of this linguistic transition, its transitional period, and the importance of national identity in contemporary Ukraine.