What to say to someone who leaves the door open after coming in European languages

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In English, a common expression in this situation is “Were you born in a barn?” This expression is often used in a playful or teasing manner and implies that the person who left the door open has no manners or was raised in a way that did not emphasize the importance of closing doors.

Other similar expressions in English that could be used in this situation include “Do you want to let all the heat/cold out?” or “Do you want the bugs to come in?”

It’s worthwhile to note, however, that the tone and context in which these expressions are used can greatly affect how they are received. It’s always wise to consider the individual and the situation before using any potentially confrontational language.

The map below, created by Efisha’s maps, shows what to say to someone who leaves the door open after coming in different languages

Overall, the way people express the idea of closing the door after entering a room can vary greatly depending on the language, region, and culture, even in the same country.

Here are other expressions, distinct from those on the map, which may also be used in different countries.

French: “Tu n’es pas né(e) dans une étable” (You weren’t born in a stable)

Spanish: “¿Se puede saber para qué sirve la puerta?” (May I know what the door is for?)

German: “Wohnen wir im Freien oder was?” (Do we live outside or what?)

Italian: “Siamo in chiesa o in stalla?” (Are we in a church or a stable?)

Portuguese: “Nasceu no campo?” (Were you born in the countryside?)

Russian: “Вы выросли в шинели?” (Did you grow up in a coat?) or “Вы дома ветер развеиваете?” (Do you let the wind blow through your house?)

South Korean: “집 안은 못 잡아요?” (Can’t you catch the inside of the house?)

In some regions of the United States, people might say “You weren’t born in a barn, were you?” or “Were you raised in a barn?” which are variations of the same phrase. In other regions, people might use expressions like “Do you live in a barn?” or “Were you born in a zoo?”

In some parts of Canada, people might say “Were you raised in a treehouse?” instead of “Were you born in a barn?” This expression is meant to convey a similar idea of someone being raised without learning basic etiquette or manners.

In Australia, people might say “Were you born in a tent?” which is a reference to the country’s history of camping and outdoor living.

In some regions of India, people might say “Makaan chor!” which means “House thief!” This expression is meant to convey the idea that leaving the door open is like inviting someone to steal from the house.

These expressions all play on the idea that leaving the door open is a sign of being uncivilized or lacking basic manners.