Learning a new language isn’t just about mastering grammar and vocabulary; it’s also about understanding the everyday slang that native speakers use. German, like any other language, has its fair share of slang words and phrases that can confuse learners but are essential for sounding like a local. Here are some of the most common German slang words and phrases, their definitions, and examples of how they are used in everyday conversation.
Alter – This word translates to “old” in English, but in slang, it’s used similarly to “dude” or “man” in English. It’s a way to address a friend informally.
Komm schon, Alter, beeil dich!
Krass – Used to describe something extreme or intense, this word can be both positive and negative depending on the context.
Das ist echt krass, was hier passiert!
Geil – Although it means “horny” in a literal sense, it’s often used to express that something is cool or awesome.
Das Konzert war echt geil!
Hammer – Similar to “awesome” or “amazing,” this word is used to express admiration for something.
Deine neue Jacke ist der Hammer!
Mies – Used to describe something very bad or of poor quality.
Das Wetter heute ist wirklich mies.
Null Bock – Literally translating to “zero billy-goat,” this phrase means having no desire or motivation to do something.
Ich habe null Bock auf Schule morgen.
Bock haben – The opposite of “Null Bock,” this means to have a desire or interest in doing something.
Ich habe echt Bock auf ein Eis.
Assi – Derived from “asozial,” which means antisocial, this term is used pejoratively to describe someone behaving in an unacceptable or trashy way.
Er benimmt sich total assi.
Digga – Another informal way of addressing a friend, similar to “dude” or “bro.”
Was geht, Digga?
Läuft bei dir – A phrase used to comment that someone is doing well or that things are going well for them.
Läuft bei dir, oder?
Tja – This expression is the equivalent of “well” or “so” in English, often used to indicate resignation or acceptance of a situation.
Tja, das war’s dann wohl.
Verpeilt – Used to describe someone who is confused or not very sharp at the moment.
Ich bin heute total verpeilt.
Schnapsidee – Literally translates to “booze idea,” and is used to describe a silly or absurd idea, usually one that comes up when drunk.
Das ist doch eine reine Schnapsidee!
Streber – A somewhat pejorative term for someone who is overly ambitious or a “teacher’s pet.”
Er ist so ein Streber in der Schule.
Na? – A versatile slang term used as a casual greeting equivalent to saying “Well?” or “So?” in English.
Na, wie geht’s dir?
Ey – Similar to “hey” in English, used to attract someone’s attention or express surprise.
Ey, was machst du denn hier?
Jein – A combination of “ja” (yes) and “nein” (no), used when the answer is both yes and no or when someone is undecided.
Willst du mitkommen? Jein, ich muss noch was erledigen.
Understanding and using these German slang words and phrases can help you communicate more effectively with native speakers and enrich your understanding of the language. As with any slang, it’s important to be mindful of the context in which you use these words, as they can sometimes be informal or even pejorative. Happy learning!
