κρατάω/προστατεύω το κομμάτι μου

Translations

• to save one's own skin
• to look out for oneself
• to protect oneself

Literal Translation

to protect the piece of me

Forms

Usage Notes

Often used in contexts where someone abandons others to save themselves. Can be conjugated with different persons (το κομμάτι μου/σου/του/της/μας/σας/τους)

Etymology

The phrase uses 'κομμάτι' (piece/part) metaphorically to refer to one's body or life, similar to how English uses 'skin' in 'save one's skin'

Cultural Context

Used to describe self-preservation instincts, often with a slightly negative connotation of selfishness or abandoning others in difficult situations

• Think of protecting your 'piece' like protecting a piece of yourself
• Remember 'κομμάτι' = piece, so you're protecting your piece (yourself)