Angstschweiß
The German language is notorious for the insane amount of consonant you can string together. However, there seems to be a consensus that 8 is the maximum.
The German language is notorious for the insane amount of consonant you can string together. However, there seems to be a consensus that 8 is the maximum.
Is Germany a child-friendly nation? Well, not really, some might argue. In our country, children are held to the same standards as if they were under-grown adults.
Cannonball jump: the diving style that gives chubby people some bragging rights during summer season.
The term Arschgeweih has been part of popular culture in the early 2000s – there was even an election for “Miss Arschgeweih” conducted by Germany’s biggest daily newspaper “Bild“.
The origin of this idiom is not entirely clear. However, many believe that there is a connection to the red card in team sports like soccer.
Everyone knows that one lady who is always dressed a little too lavishly and always has a little too much makeup on her face – even in completely inappropriate situations.
Everyone knows that one person who is always dressed a little too fancy and always has a little too much makeup on—even in completely inappropriate situations.
Backpfeifengesicht is a perfect example of creative insults that the German language has on offer. It is highly effective, yet innocent enough to not have you bleeped out.
A German proverb says: “Not complaining is enough praise.” We are truly not the masters of lavishing compliments. However, the concept of using feigned compliments as a weapon to win someone’s favor isn’t beyond a German’s reach.
It’s best to think of the word Betthupferl as “a little treat that makes you jump into bed more happily because you are full and satisfied.”
Everyone knows these little chocolates that you sometimes find on hotel beds. That’s exactly what is called a Betthupferl. And it is certainly not an invention of the German Dental Association.
What’s going on in German bedrooms? Well, nothing too exciting, apparently. According to a survey by the market research company YouGov, Germans largely prefer the missionary position.
Granted, the English equivalent “nipple” is not a happy choice either. But at least, it does not sound like something that you would immediately run to a dermatologist with.
The creativity of a language is largely defined by the quality of its insults. And of these, the German language has a great selection for every occasion and intensity. Especially for everyday swearing, there are some real gems on offer.
This blog is a love letter to the curiosities of the German language that give it its poetic and, at times, oddly humorous qualities.
The “German Is Weird” book is now available: order here!
