The German news in English site, the Local, has made up a list of 12 funny and somewhat odd sayings that are common in German culture. Some of the sayings are a little out there, so I would love to hear from our readers which sayings they have actually heard said by their German-speaking friends and family.
I’ve included the 12 sayings and their rough translations, but I highly recommend checking out the Local’s website for a full description on each saying. Check it out…
- Arbeit ist die beste Jacke – work is the best jacket
- Er ist ein Angsthase – he is a scaredy-rabbit
- Es kostet nur ‘n Appel und ‘n Ei – It only costs an apple and an egg
- Dumm wie Brot / Dumm wie Bohnenstroh – As stupid as bread / stupid as a brush
- Ich verstehe nur Bahnhof – I understand only train station
- Halt die Ohren steif – Keep your ears stiff
- Nullachtfünfzehn or 08/15 – nothing special
- Ein Loch im Bauch reden – to talk a hole into the stomach
- Du hast nicht alle Latten am Zaun – you don’t have all the planks in your fence
- Futtern wie ein Scheunendrescher – to eat like a thresher
- Einen Zahn zulegen – add a tooth
- Es passt wie ein Faust auf’s Auge – it fits like a fist in an eye
Again, head on over to the Local for the full commentary.
Photo by B Tal
