Dwarven Idioms

Dwarven language is colorful and crude, but there’s a definite flair about it.
-Dakel Flintforge, dwarven skald

Geographical Distribution

These are used wherever there are dwarves, although variations may be found in different places.

Common Phrases

The numerous uses of "Bolkin’s Beard" reference one of the greatest heroes of the dwarven people on Bastarre: Bolkin Hammersteel. It has a few different uses, including the following:
"By Bolkin’s Beard" is used as a battle cry or a rallying cry.
"In the name of Bolkin’s Beard" is used as an expression of reverence, often to honor a death in battle by someone demonstrating extreme valor. It is also used at the funerals of such people to send them off with honor.
"Bolkin’s Beard!" is usually an expression of surprise or disbelief.
Other uses may be seen by different sects or families of dwarves throughout Bastarre.
"My axe for a mug of ale" is used when a dwarf feels a desperate want or need for ale or some other thing. Other weapons are also invoked, although the axe is obviously most common. As a likely obvious note, no dwarf would give up their axe without a fight.
"As hard as gold" is usually used as an insult to denote a lack of intelligence or courage.
"He hit headfirst without a helmet" is an insult referring to someone as addlebrained or confused.
"The axe fall where it may" is akin to saying that whatever happens, happens.
"By forge and steel" is used to seal pacts and promises or to indicate the strength of a friendship or other relationship. This is always used as part of a wedding ceremony to seal the deal.
“Go have a glass of wine” is a way of telling someone that they haven’t got the guts to do something or to let someone tougher handle something. Usually followed by "No offense" if there are any elves present.
“Why don’t we break out the good crystal, then?” is a sarcastic way of telling someone that they’re being too nice/subtle/diplomatic/accommodating.