Advertisement

Ten English words only Germans use

The Local Germany
The Local Germany - [email protected]
Ten English words only Germans use
This "old timer" is a little different from those you might hear about in German. Photo: DPA

Most English-speakers will know exactly what words like bodybag, peeling and timer mean. But in German these familiar words are used to mean something completely different. How many of the English words in our Local List can you guess the meaning of?

Advertisement

It is a much-talked-about fact about the German language that it adopts English words all the time, but they often take on new meanings which can sound bizarre to native English speakers.

So in a follow-up to our collection last year of the finest English words that only Germans use, this week's Local List looks at how in German you can be offered a small African country in a restaurant, go for a drive in an old-timer, and even wear a body bag around your waist.

Just remember to wear your neckholder.

CLICK HERE to see The Local List

More

Join the conversation in our comments section below. Share your own views and experience and if you have a question or suggestion for our journalists then email us at [email protected].
Please keep comments civil, constructive and on topic – and make sure to read our terms of use before getting involved.

Please log in to leave a comment.

See Also