«زَيِّ يُومِ الشِّتَا قُصَيَّرْ وِنِكِدْ»

The saying compares a trying situation to a winter day. Such a day passes quickly, yet its cold, overcast skies and rain still weigh on the spirit. The image suggests that how long something lasts does not decide how much distress it can cause.

In practice, it describes an experience, period, or encounter that was brief but still left people gloomy, irritated, or troubled; the key word blends all three senses. Its comfort is limited: the trouble will not last long, but its shortness does nothing to make it agreeable while it goes on.

Use this to remark on a brief but unpleasant situation, such as a short visit marred by quarrels or a passing bout of trouble. It fits casual, wry talk that grants something was short while stressing how sour it felt, never claiming brevity made it pleasant.