72 German Slang Words & Expressions For

Beginners
LearnOutLive · Saturday, April 22nd, 2023

If you’ve ever wondered why your German textbook doesn’t quite prepare you
for real-life conversations, you’re not alone. Learning a language involves more
than just grammar and vocabulary—it’s about understanding the culture and
colloquialisms that make the language come alive.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the colorful world of German slang, where
language, culture, and history intersect.

Introduction

German slang, like slang in any language, is influenced by various factors, such
as regional dialects, youth culture, and even globalization. Slang words and
phrases often emerge from the creative use of language by younger generations,
who tend to play with words and bend the rules of traditional grammar.

Over time, slang evolves, and some words or phrases become outdated, while
new ones take their place. This dynamic aspect of slang makes it a fascinating
area of language study, as it reflects the ever-changing nature of human

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communication and cultural trends.

“What is slang in one age sometimes goes into the vocabulary

of the purist in the next.” — Thomas Bailey Aldrich

It’s essential to know when to use slang and when to avoid it. In formal settings
or when addressing someone you don’t know well, it’s best to stick to standard
German. However, in casual conversations with friends or acquaintances, using
slang can make you sound more natural and approachable.

Regional Slang

Northern Slang

Moin (Hello)

“Moin” is a short, friendly greeting commonly used in northern Germany. It

derives from the Low German word “moi” meaning “good.” Although often
associated with the morning, “Moin” can be used throughout the day to greet
friends and strangers alike.

Moinsen (Hello)

“Moinsen” is a variation of “Moin” that adds a playful touch to the original

greeting. It’s a casual way to say hello and is often used among friends or in
informal settings.

Tach (Hello)

“Tach” is another regional greeting, primarily used in North Rhine-Westphalia.

It’s a shortened version of “Tag,” which means “day” in German. Like “Moin,”
it can be used at any time of the day.

Büx (pants)

“Büx” is a slang term for pants or trousers, originating from the northern regions
of Germany. The word is derived from the Low German word “Büxe,” which
means “box” or “container,” possibly referring to the pants as a container for

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one’s legs.

Southern Slang

Servus (Hello)

“Servus” is a popular greeting in southern Germany, Austria, and parts of

Switzerland. It’s a versatile expression, used to say both hello and goodbye. The
word has its origins in Latin, where “servus” means “servant” or “slave,”
suggesting a humble, friendly demeanor.

Grüß Gott! (Hello)

“Grüß Gott!” is a traditional Austrian greeting that translates to “Greet God” in

English. While it has religious connotations, it’s used as a polite way to say hello
in Austria, southern Germany, and parts of Switzerland. The expression reflects
the region’s strong Catholic traditions.

Grüezi (Hello)

“Grüezi” is a Swiss German greeting, used predominantly in eastern and

northern Switzerland. It’s a contraction of “Gott grüez i,” which means “God
greet you” in English. Like “Grüß Gott!” in Austria, “Grüezi” reflects the
region’s strong religious traditions.

Grüessech (Hello)

“Grüessech” is another Swiss German greeting, primarily used in the western

parts of Switzerland. It’s a contraction of “Gott grüess ech,” which also
translates to “God greet you” in English. Both “Grüezi” and “Grüessech” are
polite ways to say hello in their respective regions and reflect the local culture
and linguistic nuances.

Hessian Slang

Ei Gude! (Hello)

“Ei Gude!” is a regional greeting in Hessian dialect, spoken in the state of Hesse
in central Germany. The expression can be used at any time of the day and is
often considered a more laid-back, informal greeting.

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 Babbeln (to chat)

“Babbeln” is a Hessian slang term for chatting or talking. The word is derived
from the verb “babbeln,” which means “to babble” in German. It’s a colloquial
way to describe having a conversation or engaging in small talk.

“Slang is a language that rolls up its sleeves, spits on its hands

and goes to work.” – Carl Sandburg

Loan Words & Urban Slang

Yiddish Influence

Yiddish, a West Germanic language with Hebrew roots, was widely spoken
among Ashkenazi Jews in Germany before World War II, and its vocabulary and
syntax have left a lasting imprint on the German language.

There are innumerable Yiddish words in German, such as “malochen” (to work)
and “zocken” (to game), and they’re often used to convey a sense of humor or
irony.

11 Yiddish Words in German And Their Ancient Hebrew Origins

Kiezdeutsch

Kiezdeutsch is a socio- or ethnolect spoken by some German-Turkish or

German-Arab youth. It often uses code-switching, mixing Turkish, Arabic and
German words within the same sentence, as in “Wallah, ich schwör! – “I
swear!”. Other examples are Turkish loanwords such as “Babo” (boss, originally
meaning father), “Abi” (older brother), “Lan” (dude), etc.

Another notable feature is syntactical, where prepositions an declension are

dropped: “Ich gehe in den Supermarkt” becomes “Ich gehe Supermarkt”, or “Ich
werde am fünften März 19” morphs into “Ich werde fünfter März 19.” Language

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purists sometimes decry Kiezdeutsch as “broken German”, but it remains a
staple of modern German slang.

The influence of Kiezdeutsch on German slang has been significant, particularly

among young people in urban areas. It has been propelled into mainstream
culture through rap music by artists like Haftbefehl (listener discretion is
advised):

Decrypting Kiezdeutsch can be a real challenge, even for native speakers. In the
above song “Chabos” is a term from Romani or Rotwelsch and means something
like “buddies/homies” in German slang. So “Chabos wissen, wer der Babo ist”
means something to the effect of: “All my homies know who’s boss.”

Youth and Colloquial Slang

Greetings and Exclamations
Alter (Dude)

“Alter” is a colloquial term used among friends, similar to “dude” or “mate” in

English. It’s derived from the German word for “old” but has evolved into an
informal term of address, often used to express surprise or disbelief.

Alles fit? (Everything okay?)

“Alles fit?” is a casual way to ask someone how they’re doing. It’s a
combination of “alles,” which means “everything,” and “fit,” which means “in
good shape” or “healthy.” The phrase is often used among friends or in informal
settings.

Was geht ab?! (What’s up?)

“Was geht ab?” is a casual greeting that can be translated as “what’s going on?”
or “what’s up?” It’s often used among friends or in informal settings to ask how
someone is doing or what they’re up to.

Bleib mal locker! (Stay cool, relax)

“Bleib mal locker” is an informal expression used to tell someone to stay calm
or relax. It’s a combination of “bleib,” which means “stay,” and “locker,” which
means “loose” or “relaxed.” The phrase is often used in response to someone
getting overly excited or agitated.

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 Back dir ein Eis! (Chill out!)

“Back dir ein Eis” is a humorous way to tell someone to chill out or take it easy.
It literally translates to “bake yourself an ice cream,” which is, of course, an
impossible task. The phrase is often used in a lighthearted manner to diffuse
tension or remind someone not to take things too seriously.

Auf jeden! (Definitely!)

This expression translates to “definitely” or “for sure.” It’s a casual way to agree
with someone or express certainty about something. For example, “Willst du
heute Abend ins Kino gehen?” “Auf jeden!” (“Do you want to go to the movies
tonight?” “Definitely!”)

Auf keinsten! (No way!)

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This phrase is the opposite of “auf jeden” and means “no way” or “not at all.”
It’s used to express strong disagreement or to decline something. For example,
“Glaubst du, dass er gewinnt?” “Auf keinsten!” (“Do you think he’ll win?” “No
way!”)

Das ist bescheuert! (That’s ridiculous!)

“Das ist bescheuert” is a slang expression used to describe something that’s

ridiculous or nonsensical. “Bescheuert” is a colloquial term that can be
translated as “stupid” or “idiotic.” The phrase is often used to express disbelief
or disapproval.

Quatsch (Nonsense)

“Quatsch” is a slang term that means “nonsense” or “rubbish.” It can be used to

dismiss an idea or statement as being untrue or nonsensical. Example: “Das ist
doch Quatsch!” (“That’s nonsense!”)

Expressions about Feelings and Actions

auf etwas Bock haben (to be up for something)

“Auf etwas Bock haben” is a slang phrase used to express enthusiasm or interest
in doing something. It translates to “to have a goat for something,” which might
sound strange, but “Bock” is also a colloquial term for “desire” or “appetite.”
The expression is often used among friends when making plans or suggesting
activities.

dabei sein (to be in, to join)

“Dabei sein” is an informal way to say that you’re in or you’re joining an

activity or event. It’s a combination of “dabei,” which means “with it” or “in it,”
and “sein,” which means “to be.” The phrase is often used to show agreement or
enthusiasm for participating in something.

Example: “Wenn ihr ins Kino geht, bin ich dabei!” (“If you’re going to the
movies, I’m in!”)

jemandem auf den Zeiger gehen (To get on someone’s nerves)

“Jemandem auf den Zeiger gehen” is a slang expression that translates to “to go
on someone’s pointer.” It means to get on someone’s nerves or to annoy them.
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The phrase is often used in casual conversations to express irritation or
frustration with someone’s behavior.

abdrehen (to freak out)

“Abdrehen” is a slang term that means “to freak out” or “to go crazy.” It can be
used to describe someone who is overreacting or losing control of themselves.
Example: “Er dreht total ab, wenn er gestresst ist.” (“He freaks out when he’s
stressed.”)

versauen (to mess up)

This verb means “to mess up” or “to ruin” something. It’s often used in
reference to making a mistake or causing a negative outcome. For example, “Er
hat die Prüfung total versaut” means “He totally messed up the exam.”

abkacken (to fail)

This slang term is used to describe failing or performing poorly at something.

For example, “Bei der Präsentation ist er total abgekackt” means “He completely
bombed during the presentation.”

zocken (to gamble or play games)

“Zocken” is a slang term for gambling or playing games. Example: “Er zockt die
ganze Nacht Videospiele.” (“He plays video games all night long.”) As
discussed previously, this is from the Hebrew “lesachek” (to game).

bespaßen (to entertain or amuse)

“Bespaßen” is a slang term for entertaining or amusing someone, often in the

context of a dinner party. Example: “Er hat uns den ganzen Abend bespaßt.”
(“He entertained us the entire evening.”)

betüddeln (to pamper or spoil)

“Betüddeln” is a slang term for pampering or spoiling someone, most commonly

heard in the North. Example: “Sie betüddelt ihre Gäste immer mit den besten
Speisen und Getränken.” (“She always spoils her guests with the best food and
drinks.”)

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 bummeln (to stroll or saunter)

“Bummeln” is a slang term for strolling or sauntering, often in the context of

window-shopping or dining out. Example: “Lass uns durch die Stadt bummeln
und ein Eis essen.” (“Let’s stroll through the city and eat an ice cream.”)

fachsimpeln (to talk shop or engage in expert discussions)

“Fachsimpeln” is a slang term for talking shop or engaging in expert

discussions, often over food or drinks. Example: “Wir haben über Fotografie
gefachsimpelt, während wir ein Bier getrunken haben.” (“We talked shop about
photography while we had a beer.”)

der Brüller (a howler)

“Brüller” is a slang term for a very funny joke or story, also known as a howler.
Example: “Sein Witz war ein echter Brüller!” (“His joke was a real howler!”)

der Lachflash (a fit of laughter)

“Lachflash” is a slang term for a sudden fit of laughter. Example: “Ich hatte
einen Lachflash, als er seine Hose zerriss.” (“I had a fit of laughter when he
ripped his pants.”)

die Faxen (jokes or antics)

“Faxen” is a slang term for jokes or antics. Example: “Hör auf, Faxen zu
machen, und konzentriere dich!” (“Stop making jokes and focus!”)

gewieft (shrewd, cunning, or clever)

“Gewieft” is a slang term for someone who is shrewd, cunning, or clever.

Example: “Sie ist eine gewiefte Geschäftsfrau.” (“She’s a shrewd
businesswoman.”)

schmollen (to sulk or pout)

“Schmollen” is a slang term for sulking or pouting. Example: “Sie schmollt, weil
sie nicht gewonnen hat.” (“She’s sulking because she didn’t win.”)

putzig (cute or adorable)

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“Putzig” is a slang term for something or someone that is cute or adorable.
Example: “Das kleine Kätzchen ist so putzig.” (“The little kitten is so cute.”)

schnuffig (cute or adorable)

“Schnuffig” is another slang term for something or someone that is cute or

adorable. Example: “Das Baby ist so schnuffig, ich möchte es die ganze Zeit
knuddeln.” (“The baby is so cute, I want to cuddle it all the time.”)

Food and Drink-Related Slang

einen Kater haben (to have a hangover)

“Einen Kater haben” is a slang expression that translates to “to have a tomcat.” It
means to have a hangover, suggesting that the aftermath of a night of drinking
can feel as rough as dealing with an unruly tomcat. The phrase is often used in
casual conversations to describe the unpleasant effects of overindulging in
alcohol.

dicht (drunk)

“Dicht” is a slang term for being drunk or intoxicated. It literally means “dense”
or “thick” in German, suggesting that one’s mental faculties are clouded or
impaired by alcohol. The expression is often used in casual conversations to
describe the state of inebriation. A similar word is “breit” (literally “broad”),
translating to “stoned” or “drunk”.

knuspern (to crunch)

“Knuspern” is a slang term for crunching, usually in the context of eating

crunchy food. Example: “Ich liebe es, Chips zu knuspern.” (“I love to crunch
chips.”)

futtern (to feed)

This slang term is used to describe the act of eating in a casual way. For
example: “Lass uns etwas futtern gehen” (Let’s go grab something to eat).

mampfen (to munch)

Another casual term for eating, especially when it involves snacking. For
instance: “Ich mampfe gerade ein paar Kekse” (I’m munching on some cookies
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right now).

schnabulieren (to feast)

This slang term is used to describe the act of eating with great relish. For
example: “Wir schnabulieren ein bisschen Kuchen zum Kaffee” (We’re
snacking on some cake with our coffee).

die Plörre (swill)

This slang term refers to a low-quality or unappetizing beverage, often used to

describe cheap beer, wine, or coffee. For instance: “Das Bier hier schmeckt wie
Plörre” (The beer here tastes like swill).

Vorglühen (pre-gaming, literally “pre-glowing”)

This slang term is used to describe the act of drinking alcohol before going out
to a party, club, or event. It is similar to the English term “pre-gaming” or “pre-
drinking.” For example: “Wir treffen uns um 20 Uhr zum Vorglühen, bevor wir
in den Club gehen” (We’ll meet at 8 PM for pre-gaming before we go to the
club).

Compliments and Criticisms

Läuft bei dir! (You’re on a roll!)

“Läuft bei dir!” is a slang expression used to praise someone who’s doing well
or experiencing success. It can be translated as “it’s running for you” or “you’re
on a roll.” The phrase is often used to express admiration or approval for
someone’s achievements or good fortune.

mega nervig sein (to be super annoying)

“Mega nervig sein” is a slang phrase used to describe someone or something

that’s super annoying. “Mega” is an intensifier, while “nervig” means
“annoying” or “irritating.” The expression is often used among friends to vent
frustration or share a common annoyance.

Eins A (top-notch, excellent)

“Eins A” is a slang term used to describe something that’s top-notch or

excellent. The expression is often used to praise someone’s work, performance,
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or accomplishments.

geil oder supergeil (cool or super cool)

“Geil” and “supergeil” are slang terms used to describe something that’s cool,
awesome, or exciting. The word “geil” originally meant “horny” in German, but
its meaning has evolved to include positive connotations in a more general
sense. The phrase is often used among friends to express enthusiasm or
admiration for something or someone.

Gönn dir! (Treat yourself!)

“Gönn dir” is used to encourage someone to indulge in something they like or to

take a break and relax. The addition of “Brudi” (a slang term derived from
“Bruder,” which means “brother”) makes the phrase even more informal and
friendly, as in “Gönn dir, Brudi” or “Treat yourself, bro.”

abgefahren (awesome, cool)

“Abgefahren” is a slang term used to describe something that’s cool, awesome,

or extraordinary. It’s derived from the verb “abfahren,” which means “to depart”
or “to leave.” In this context, it suggests that something is so amazing that it’s
leaving the ordinary behind. Example: “Das Konzert gestern war total
abgefahren!” (“The concert yesterday was totally far-out!”)

etepetete (fussy or picky)

“Etepetete” is a slang term for someone who is fussy or picky, especially in

regard to food or dining preferences. Example: “Er ist so etepetete, er isst nur
Bio-Lebensmittel.” (“He’s so picky, he only eats organic food.”)

der Abklatsch (imitation/copycat)

“Abklatsch” is a slang term that means “imitation” or “copycat.” It can be used

to describe something or someone that is trying to imitate or copy something
else, often in a negative way. Example: “Das ist doch nur ein billiger Abklatsch
des Originals.” (“That’s just a cheap imitation of the original.”)

der Hirni (Slow-witted or unintelligent person)

“Hirni” is a slang term for a person who is slow-witted or unintelligent.

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Example: “Er versteht nie, worum es geht. Er ist ein Hirni.” (“He never
understands what’s going on. He’s a slow-witted person.”)

der Horst (dork)

“Horst” is a slang term that means “dork” or “nerd.” It’s used to describe
someone who is socially awkward or uncool. Example: “Er ist so ein Horst,
immer mit seinen Büchern.” (“He’s such a dork, always with his books.”)

der Pfosten (idiot)

“Pfosten” is a slang term that means “idiot” or “fool.” It’s used to describe
someone who is acting stupid or foolish. Example: “Er hat seine Schlüssel im
Auto gelassen. Was für ein Pfosten!” (“He left his keys in the car. What an
idiot!”) An even strong expression is “Vollpfosten” which translates to
something like “complete fool”.

die Lusche (weak or ineffectual person)

“Lusche” is a slang term for a weak or ineffectual person. Example: “Er gibt
immer gleich auf. Er ist eine echte Lusche.” (“He always gives up immediately.
He’s a real weakling.”)

Finance-Related
die Kohle (money, literally “coal”)

“Kohle” is a slang term for money. It literally means “coal” in German, possibly
implying that money, like coal, is a valuable resource that fuels our lives.

die Asche (money, literally “ash”)

This slang term is used to refer to money in general. It’s an informal way of
talking about cash. For example: “Er hat viel Asche ausgegeben, um das neue
Auto zu kaufen” (He spent a lot of money to buy the new car).

der Schotter (money, literally “gravel”)

Another informal term for money, “Schotter” is used in casual conversations.

For instance: “Er hat einen Haufen Schotter für diese Uhr bezahlt” (He paid a
ton of money for that watch).

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 betucht (wealthy or well-off)

“Betucht” is a slang term for someone who is wealthy or well-off. Example: “Sie
kommt aus einer betuchten Familie.” (“She comes from a wealthy family.”) This
is another Yiddish influence from the Hebrew (???????) (batuach) which means
“sure” or “trustworthy”.

der Bonze (big shot)

“Bonze” is a slang term that refers to someone who is wealthy, powerful, or

influential. It’s similar to the English terms “big shot” or “bigwig.” Example:
“Er hält sich für einen Bonzen, nur weil er ein teures Auto hat.” (“He thinks he’s
a big shot just because he has an expensive car.”)

blechen (to pay)

“Blechen” is a slang term for paying, e.g. for food or drinks. Example: “Er hat
die ganze Nacht für uns geblecht.” (“He paid for us the entire night.”)

Everyday Life and Relationships

der Paps (Dad)

“Paps” is an informal term for “father” or “dad.” It’s similar to the English terms
“pop” or “pops.” Example: “Mein Paps arbeitet bei einer Bank.” (“My dad
works at a bank.”)

die Mutti (Mom)

“Mutti” is an informal term for “mother” or “mom.” It’s a term of endearment

and can be used affectionately to refer to one’s mother. Example: “Mutti, ich
brauche Hilfe bei meinen Hausaufgaben.” (“Mom, I need help with my
homework.”)

funzen (to work/function)

“Funzen” is a slang term that means “to work” or “to function.” It is used to
describe when something is operating correctly or as expected. Example: “Mein
Handy funzt nicht mehr richtig.” (“My phone isn’t working properly anymore.”)

der Hingucker (an eye-catcher, something that attracts attention)

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“Hingucker” is a slang term for something that catches the eye or attracts
attention. Example: “Ihr neues Kleid ist ein echter Hingucker.” (“Her new dress
is a real eye-catcher.”)

spitze (great, fantastic)

“Spitze” is a slang term used to describe something that’s great, fantastic, or

exceptional. It literally means “tip” or “peak” in German, implying that
something is at the top of its game or the best it can be. The expression is often
used to praise someone or something, expressing enthusiasm or admiration.

jemandem den Laufpass geben (to break up with someone)

“Jemandem den Laufpass geben” is a slang expression that translates to “to give
someone the running pass.” It means to break up with someone or end a
relationship. The phrase is often used in casual conversations to describe the act
of ending a romantic relationship or friendship.

krass (Intense, crazy)

“Krass” is a slang term used to describe something that’s intense, crazy, or

extreme. It can be used both positively and negatively, depending on the context.
The expression is often used among friends to emphasize the intensity or
extremity of a situation, experience, or emotion.

In conclusion, German slang adds a layer of richness and depth to the language,
allowing speakers to express themselves more vividly and authentically.

By understanding and incorporating these slang expressions into your

conversations, you’ll be able to connect with native speakers on a deeper level
and fully immerse yourself in the colorful world of modern German.

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