“At tage benene på nakken” – Putting your legs around your neck

Meaning

“At tage benene på nakken” literally translates to “putting your legs around your neck” but is used figuratively to mean “to run away quickly” or “to flee at full speed.” This expression is commonly used in situations where one needs to leave urgently or accomplish something quickly. For example, it might be used when someone needs to escape a dangerous situation immediately or when there is a need to rush for an important errand.

Similar expressions exist in other languages and cultures. In Japanese, the phrase “to run away in one breath” conveys a similar sense of urgency, illustrating a swift escape. In English, the phrases “to run for one’s life” or “to take to one’s heels” also mean “to run at full speed.”

Additionally, the French expression “prendre ses jambes à son cou” (to put one’s legs around one’s neck) has almost the same meaning, indicating a quick escape. It is interesting that many cultures associate expressions involving feet or running with fleeing or acting swiftly in urgent situations.

Origin

The origin of this expression lies in the literal image of “putting your legs around your neck.” In Danish, “benene på nakken” (legs around the neck) paints the image of someone almost holding their legs on their shoulders or neck, as if ready to dash away. Although the exact origin is unclear, it is an old saying emphasizing the speed needed to escape, implying more of a sprint than a casual walk.

The expression is thought to be connected to Denmark’s agricultural society and natural environment. With Denmark’s rich natural landscape and its close relationship with animal life, people likely developed this phrase while observing animals’ rapid flight in response to danger. Through farm life or watching wildlife, people might have likened the force and speed of an animal’s escape to the urgency of “putting one’s legs around one’s neck.” For modern Danes, who still feel close to nature and animals, this expression holds resonance as a vivid way to emphasize quick action in urgent situations.

Conclusion

“At tage benene på nakken” is a Danish expression meaning “to run away quickly” or “to dash off at full speed.” Its origin is related to the imagery of people or animals suddenly running away, rooted in Denmark’s natural environment and traditional lifestyle.

This expression is commonly used in everyday conversation to emphasize the importance of swift action in emergencies, and it remains a familiar phrase in Danish life.