wenn's kein Schneider ist

German

Etymology

Literally, “if it’s not a tailor”. Origin unknown. The most plausible theory says that the original form was *wenn’s nicht der Schnitter ist (“if it’s not the [Grim] Reaper”). Then altered, either humorously or by taboo avoidance.

Pronunciation

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Phrase

wenn's kein Schneider ist

1. (informal, humorous, slightly dated) Used when granting entry to someone who knocks at the door.

   Immer rein, wenn’s kein Schneider ist!

   Just come on in!

   (literally, “Come on in if it’s not a tailor!”)