10 Untranslatable German Words

Estimated read time 4 min read

It is sometimes difficult to understand the meaning of words in a different one language. Also, there are thousands of terms that can’t be translated.

If you’re having trouble expressing your thoughts in English and are unable to find an appropriate word, try thinking about speaking in German for a fresh perspective. In this post, you’ll see some beautiful and untranslatable German terms that every person should have a look at!

1. Der Weltschmerz

Invent by German writer Jean Paul in 1827, ” Weltschmerz” is a word that can describe the sensation you feel when you feel that the physical reality is unable to satisfy your mind’s demands..

When you consider what’s happening today in the world The distinctive German phrase is quite appropriate I’m sure you’ll agree.

2. Verschlimmbessern

Did you try to repair something only to have it resulted in it getting more difficult? This is a different German term that doesn’t have an English equivalent ” Verschlimmbessern” (” verschlimm” is derived in ” verschlimmern” which means “to make things worse” in addition to ” verbessern,” “to improve”). The more you attempt to improve something, the more deteriorated it becomes.

3. Die Fruhjahrsmudigkeit

Fruhjahrsmudigkeit It is highly similar to people in the Northern Hemisphere. The German term that isn’t found in English describes the general state of depression and fatigue that usually is seen in springtime..

Do you realize that even though Fruhjahrsmudigkeit is not an officially recognized disease, it is estimated that 50 to 75 percentage of those who live in Germany are affected by it?

4. Der Kabelsalat

You’re not likely to know the significance of this term!

Kabelsalat is a reference to the cables that are tangled and wires that sit behind your television that are covered in dust.

5. Das Fingerspitzengefuhl

This second oddly specific German word that is used as a loanword by English word as loanword is literally translated as “fingertips feeling,” meaning an intuitive flair or feeling.

Fingerspitzengefuhl states being fully conscious of the circumstances, acting appropriately and with tact.

6. Die Schnapsidee

The listing of German terms that do not exist in English isn’t exhaustive with out the word Schnapsidee. We’ve seen it all and have done this.

Schnapsidee is the name used to describe the absurd notion that one can only create while drinking. What number of German beers is it going to require to acquire one?

7. Das Backpfeifengesicht

Have you met somebody who is worthy of a high-five directly in the face using an armchair? That’s the meaning behind Backpfeifengesicht refers to.

8. Die Geborgenheit

Geborgenheit can be thought of by many as one of the best German words. It evokes an reassuring feeling of security that covers everything from safety and trust to joy and peace. It also refers to peace and comfort.

It is an excellent illustration of German philosophical concepts.

  • Continue reading for more about the best way to use the German words “I love you” in German along with other romantic words.

9. Der/Das Kuddelmuddel

The term ” Kuddelmuddel” is a little chaotic and it’s not wrong.

A masculine as well as a neuter noun Kuddelmuddel can be used to refer to an environment where the world is the middle, however it does not necessarily mean negative connotation. It could be a lively combination of many things such as different languages.

10. Das Honigkuchenpferd

If you are a German is able to spot you sporting a an enormous dorky smile over your face you might try to smack them by claiming that you’re smiling like the famous Honigkuchenpferd (literally “honey-cake-horse”).

The roots of the term is not known, but it could be used to refer to Honigkuchenpferd gingerbread biscuits that sport huge grins that are painted on their faces with frosting. They are typically located in fairgrounds, markets and marketplaces throughout Germany.

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