Dutch Phrases: Can You Be Happy with a Dead Sparrow?

The Dutch phrases “make someone happy with a dead sparrow” or “be happy with a dead sparrow” are used when someone has been tricked into being excited about something, only to discover that it's worthless. Or just as worthy as a dead sparrow. It is often used from the perspective of an outsider, someone who knows that a person's happiness is temporary, and disappointment will soon follow.

So the next time someone lets you down, try telling them “Je maakt me blij met een dooie mus.”