counting trees

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counting trees

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(Expression) Russian slang for being exiled and ostracized to Siberia. It originates from the idea that Siberia is such a desolate place that the only thing you can really do there is to count trees.

Usage: - "Comrades! Here is my report with breaking news from the west front. I am sorry to unveil that our brave fighting 6th Army was unable to stop the German tanks approaching Kiev, comrade Beria."
- "Well then, comrade commander, I see a bright future for your career counting trees in Siberia."
- (confident in the inerrability of Soviet leaders) "I serve the Soviet Union!" (heading for the train East)

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counting trees

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