Discover the top German slang words used in everyday life with our comprehensive guide. Impress your friends and sound like a native speaker!
Top German slang words used in everyday life
If you’re planning on visiting Germany or just want to expand your German language skills it’s important to know that Germans have a rich history of slang words and expressions that are used in everyday life.
Slang is a type of language that is often informal, colloquial, and can be regional in nature. Here are some of the top German slang words and phrases you should know.
Hallo/Hallochen
Hallo is a typical greeting in German, however, you can also add “Hallochen” to sound more relaxed and kind. Words with the “-chen” ending frequently sound smaller or more adorable. So, by utilizing “Hallochen,” you give your greeting a little more character.
Geil
Geil is a slang term for “cool” or “awesome” in English. It’s a popular expression among teenagers and is frequently used to describe something thrilling or amazing.
For example, if you’re at a performance and the band is performing exceptionally well, you can exclaim, “Das ist so cool!” (How exciting!)
Krass
Krass is a versatile slang word that can mean amazing, intense, incredible, or crazy. It’s often used to describe something that is extreme or unusual.
For example, if you saw an incredible performance by an athlete or musician, you might say “Das war echt krass!” (That was really amazing!)
Schon
Schon is a versatile word that can mean already, pretty, or quiet. It’s often used in everyday conversation to add emphasis or to express agreement.
For example, if someone asks you if you’re ready to leave, you might say “Ja, ich bin schon fertig.” (Yes, I’m already finished.)
Alter
A friend or acquaintance is referred to as an alter in slang. It sounds similar to the English words dude and guy. When you’re happy or astonished to see someone, you frequently address them in this way.
For instance, you might exclaim, “Alter, lange nicht gesehen!” when you run into a friend you haven’t seen in a long.(Dude, it’s been a while!)
Digga
Another colloquial term for a buddy or acquaintance is “digga.” It is similar to “Alter,” but younger people tend to use it more frequently. When you’re attempting to be amusing or nice, you frequently use it to address someone.
For instance, you might respond, “Ey Digga, you’re so witzig! “if someone says something funny while you’re out with pals.(Hey, buddy, you’re hilarious!)
Nö
In everyday conversation, “nö” is used in place of “nein” (no). The word “nein” is frequently shortened to sound more casual or to express disinterest. For instance, if someone asks you if you want to go to a party, you can say, “Nö, ich habe keine Lust.”
Feierabend
“Feierabend” is a slang word that is used to describe the end of the workday. It’s similar to saying “quitting time” or “clocking out” in English. It’s often used to express excitement or relief that the workday is over.
For example, if you’re leaving work and a colleague asks how you’re feeling, you might say “Endlich Feierabend!” (Finally quitting time!)
Moin
The slang word “moin” is used as a greeting in northern Germany. It is often used as a cordial welcome throughout the day and is a shortened version of “Guten Morgen” (Good morning).
It is a common greeting among the local fishermen and sailors.
Fresse
Fresse is a slang word that is used to refer to someone’s face in a rude or insulting way. It’s a vulgar expression and should be used with caution if at all. It’s often used to express anger or frustration towards someone.
For example, if someone is being rude to you, you might say “Halt die Fresse!” (Shut your face!)
Wurst
Wurst is a slang term for “it doesn’t matter” or “I don’t care” in English. It’s a common expression among younger people, and it’s frequently used to reject something insignificant or unnecessary.
For example, if someone is telling you about a minor problem they had, you could remark, “Das ist doch alles Wurst.”
Kacke
Kacke is a slang word that means “crap” or “shit” in English. It’s a vulgar expression and should be used with caution if at all. It’s often used to express frustration or disappointment.
For example, if you missed your train, you might say “Das ist echt kacke.” (That’s really crappy.)
Schluss
“Schluss” is a slang word that means “enough” or “stop” in English. It’s often used to express that something has reached its limit or that someone needs to stop doing something.
For example, if someone is talking too much, you might say “Schluss jetzt!” (Enough already!)
Fimmel
“Fimmel” is a slang word that means “obsession” or “mania” in English. It’s often used to describe someone’s unusual or irrational behavior.
For example, if someone is really into collecting stamps, you might say “Er hat einen Fimmel für Briefmarken.” (He has an obsession with stamps.)
Tacheles reden
“Tacheles reden” is a slang expression that means “to speak plainly” or “to speak straight.” It’s often used to encourage someone to be honest and direct in their communication.
For example, if you’re having a difficult conversation with someone, you might say “Lass uns Tacheles reden.” (Let’s speak plainly.)
In conclusion, learning German slang words can be a fun and useful way to improve your language skills and connect with locals. However, it’s important to use slang words with caution and to be aware of regional variations and cultural contexts.
With these top German slang words and expressions in your repertoire, you’ll be able to communicate like a native and impress your German-speaking friends and colleagues.
