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German is a fascinating language that is full of unique and interesting words and expressions. While learning the formal language is essential, it is equally important to learn the colloquial words and expressions that native German speakers use in their daily lives.
In this blog, we will look at useful German colloquial words and expressions that you can use to improve your language skills and impress your German-speaking friends.
“Krass”
“Krass” is a commonly used expression in the German language, which translates to “cool” or “awesome.” It is used to describe something that is impressive, surprising, or exciting. For example, “Das ist krass!” means “That’s awesome!” or “That’s amazing!”
“Alter”
“Alter” is a slang term that is used to address a person. It translates to “dude” or “man” in English. For example, “Was geht, Alter?” means “What’s up, dude?”
“Ach so!”
“Ach so!” is an expression that is used to show understanding or realization of something. It can be translated to “Oh, I see!” or “Okay, got it!” For example, if someone explains something to you and you finally understand it, you could say “Ach so!”
“Echt?”
“Echt?” is a question word that is used to express surprise or disbelief. It can be translated to “Really?” or “Are you serious?” For example, if someone tells you that they won the lottery, you could respond with “Echt?”
“Geil”
“Geil” is a slang term that is used to describe something awesome, cool, or exciting. For example, if you see a great movie, you could say “Das war geil!”
“Na ja”
“Na ja” is an expression that is used to express a feeling of uncertainty or doubt. It can be translated to “Well, I’m not sure” or “Hmm, maybe.” For example, if someone asks you if you want to go to a party, but you’re not sure, you could respond with “Na ja, mal sehen.”
“Quatsch”
“Quatsch” is an expression that is used to describe something that is nonsense or foolish. It can be translated to “Nonsense” or “Rubbish.” For example, if someone tells you that they can fly, you could respond with “Quatsch!”
“Schnell mal weg”
“Schnell mal weg” is an expression that is used to say that you need to leave quickly. It can be translated to “Gotta run” or “Got to go.” For example, if you’re on the phone with someone and you need to end the call quickly, you could say “Schnell mal weg, ich muss los!”
“Mach’s gut”
“Mach’s gut” is a farewell expression that is used to say goodbye to someone. It can be translated to “Take care” or “See you later.” For example, if you’re leaving a friend’s house, you could say “Mach’s gut!”
“Nicht mein Ding”
“Nicht mein Ding” is an expression that is used to say that something is not your thing or not your style. It can be translated to “Not my thing” or “Not my style.” For example, if someone invites you to go skydiving, but you don’t like heights, you could respond with “Sorry, nicht mein Ding.”
“Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof”
“Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof” is an expression that is used to say that you don’t understand something at all. It can be translated to “It’s all Greek to me” or “I don’t understand a thing.” For example, if someone is explaining a complicated topic to you and you can’t follow, you could say “Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof.”
“Lass mal”
“Lass mal” is an expression that is used to say “let’s not” or “let’s forget about it.” It can be translated to “never mind” or “let’s leave it.” For example, if someone suggests doing something that you don’t want to do, you could say “Lass mal.”
“Auf jeden Fall”
“Auf jeden Fall” is an expression that is used to say “definitely” or “for sure.” It can be translated to “in any case” or “without a doubt.” For example, if someone asks if you’re going to the party, you could say “Auf jeden Fall.”
“Daumen drücken”
“Daumen drücken” is an expression that is used to wish someone luck. It can be translated to “crossing fingers” or “keeping my fingers crossed.” For example, if a friend is about to take a test, you could say “Ich drücke dir die Daumen!”
“Ich bin im Eimer”
“Ich bin im Eimer” is an expression that is used to say that you’re exhausted or worn out. It can be translated to “I’m done” or “I’m wiped out.” For example, if you’ve had a long day at work, you could say “Ich bin im Eimer.”
“Keine Ahnung”
“Keine Ahnung” is an expression that is used to say that you have no idea or no clue. It can be translated to “I have no idea” or “I don’t know.” For example, if someone asks you a question and you don’t know the answer, you could say “Keine Ahnung.”
“Das ist mir Wurst”
“Das ist mir Wurst” is an expression that is used to say that something is not important to you. It can be translated to “I don’t care” or “It’s all the same to me.” For example, if someone asks if you want to go to the movies or stay home, you could say “Das ist mir Wurst.”
“Jemanden auf den Arm nehmen”
“Jemanden auf den Arm nehmen” is an expression that is used to say that you’re joking with someone or pulling their leg. It can be translated to “to tease someone” or “to make fun of someone.” For example, if you tell a friend that you won the lottery and they don’t believe you, you could say “Ich nehme dich nur auf den Arm.”
Learning German colloquial words and expressions is essential for becoming fluent in the language and for understanding the culture of German-speaking countries. By adding these useful expressions to your vocabulary, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively with native German speakers and impress them with your language skills.
Keep in mind that these expressions are often used in casual or informal situations and may not be appropriate in formal settings. So, it’s important to know when and where to use them.
With practice, you’ll soon be able to use these expressions with confidence and improve your fluency in German.