Meaning & Explanation
The idiom “Eat like a horse” describes someone who: Eats large quantities of food (अत्यधिक मात्रा में भोजन करना)
Has a huge appetite (भूख बहुत ज्यादा होना)
Consumes food voraciously (लालच से खाना)
It humorously compares a person’s eating capacity to that of a horse, known for its large appetite.
Hindi Equivalent:
- “बहुत ज्यादा खाना” (To eat excessively)
- “घोड़े जैसी भूख होना” (To have an appetite like a horse)
- “खाने पर टूट पड़ना” (To pounce on food)
Detailed Explanation
This phrase is used when referring to: People with big appetites
Occasions of excessive eating (like buffets or festivals)
Humorous observations about someone’s eating habits
Common contexts: Family gatherings, food challenges, describing growing teenagers
Real-Life Examples
- Teenage Appetite
- English: “My son eats like a horse after basketball practice!”
- Hindi: “बास्केटबॉल प्रैक्टिस के बाद मेरा बेटा घोड़े की तरह खाता है!”
- Festive Eating
- English: “At weddings, I eat like a horse – so many delicious dishes!”
- Hindi: “शादियों में मैं बहुत ज्यादा खाता हूँ – इतने स्वादिष्ट पकवान!”
- Food Challenge
- English: “He ate 8 burgers in one sitting – truly eats like a horse!”
- Hindi: “उसने एक बैठक में 8 बर्गर खा लिए – सचमुच घोड़े जैसी भूख!”
Psychological & Social Insight
Why This Phrase Matters:
✓ Cultural Observation: Highlights our relationship with food
✓ Humorous Relief: Makes large appetites socially acceptable
✓ Growth Indicator: Often used for growing children/athletes
When to Use This Phrase: Describing healthy appetites
After big meals/food events
In light-hearted conversations
Usage Tips
Best used informally
Often said affectionately
Avoid with people sensitive about eating habits
Similar Expressions
English | Hindi |
---|---|
“Have a hollow leg” | “पेट में कुछ नहीं भरता” |
“Wolf down food” | “खाना झपट्टा मारना” |
“Bottomless pit” | “अथाह पेट” |
Cultural Perspectives
- Western View: Often associated with manual laborers/athletes
- Indian Context: Connected to hospitality and feeding guests well
- Global Relevance: Recognized in food cultures worldwide
Reflection Questions:
- Who do you know that “eats like a horse”?
- When have you eaten the most in your life?
- How does your culture view big appetites?