«اِلنُّجُومْ فِي السَّمَا أَقْرَبْ لَكْ»

The saying marks a goal, object, or hope as practically unattainable. The thing sought is left unnamed; by claiming the distant stars lie nearer to the listener than whatever they are reaching for, it uses deliberate exaggeration to say the desired outcome is even further off than the most remote thing a person can see.

In conversation it works as a deflating reply, telling someone their expectation is unrealistic or that what they ask for will not happen. Despite the literal wording, 'closer to you' is not encouragement. It can carry gentle mockery or plain resignation, depending on whether it is aimed at another person's ambition or at one's own frustrated wish.

Say it when someone hopes for an outcome that is effectively out of reach, such as a promise unlikely to be kept or a prize far beyond their means. Its tone can be blunt or teasing, so choose it carefully with someone who is emotionally invested.