Boost Your German: 35 English Words Borrowed from German to Help You Learn Faster
Boost Your German: 35 English Words Borrowed from German to Help You Learn Faster
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Introduction
Learning a new language can be challenging, but what if you already know some of the vocabulary? German and English share a rich history, and as a result, many German words have made their way into the English language. These borrowed words can be your secret weapon for quickly understanding German and enjoying movies, songs, and TV shows in the language.
In this blog, we’ll explore 35 English words that come directly from German. Not only will these words help you expand your German vocabulary, but they’ll also give you a head start in grasping the language’s nuances. Let’s dive into this fun-filled exploration of German words that you already know!
1. Why Learning German with Borrowed Words Is Effective
Before we jump into the list, let’s understand why learning German through borrowed words is so effective:
- Familiarity: Since these words are already part of your English vocabulary, recognizing them in German will be much easier.
- Context Clues: Knowing these words will help you understand the context of conversations, movies, and songs more quickly.
- Confidence Boost: Starting with familiar words can boost your confidence as you begin your German language journey.
2. 35 English Words Borrowed from German
Here’s a list of 35 English words that originate from German. You’ll find that many of these words are used in everyday English, making them a great starting point for learning German.
Table 1: English Words Borrowed from German
| English Word | Original German Word | Meaning in English | Usage in German |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kindergarten | Kindergarten | Preschool for young children | Used the same way in German |
| Hamburger | Hamburger | A type of sandwich | Refers to a person from Hamburg or the sandwich |
| Rucksack | Rucksack | A backpack | Used the same way in German |
| Doppelgänger | Doppelgänger | A look-alike or double | Refers to someone who looks identical to another |
| Angst | Angst | Anxiety or fear | Used the same way in German |
| Blitz | Blitz | Lightning or a sudden event | Also refers to lightning or a quick attack in German |
| Bratwurst | Bratwurst | A type of German sausage | A popular German dish, a grilled sausage |
| Sauerkraut | Sauerkraut | Fermented cabbage | A traditional German dish |
| Wanderlust | Wanderlust | A strong desire to travel | Used the same way in German |
| Gestalt | Gestalt | A structure or pattern | Refers to a whole that is perceived as more than its parts |
| Poltergeist | Poltergeist | A noisy ghost | Refers to a mischievous spirit in German folklore |
| Strudel | Strudel | A type of pastry | A popular dessert in Germany |
| Zeitgeist | Zeitgeist | The spirit of the times | Refers to the defining mood or spirit of a period |
| Führer | Führer | Leader | Historically refers to a leader, but also carries WWII connotations |
| Kitsch | Kitsch | Art or objects of poor taste | Refers to something that is overly sentimental or tacky |
| Kraut | Kraut | Cabbage | Informal term sometimes used for German culture |
| Leitmotiv | Leitmotiv | A recurring theme | Used in music and literature to denote a recurring theme |
| Fest | Fest | A celebration or festival | Refers to any kind of celebration or fair |
| Autobahn | Autobahn | Highway | Refers to the German federal highway system |
| Ersatz | Ersatz | A substitute or replacement | Refers to something that is a substitute, often inferior |
| Delicatessen | Delikatessen | A shop selling fine foods | Refers to a gourmet food store in German |
| Schadenfreude | Schadenfreude | Pleasure derived from others’ misfortune | Used the same way in German |
| Schnitzel | Schnitzel | A breaded and fried meat cutlet | A popular German dish |
| Noodle | Nudel | A type of pasta | Refers to pasta in general |
| Vandal | Vandal | A person who deliberately destroys property | Originally referred to a Germanic tribe |
| Funk | Funk | A style of music | Refers to radio or funky music in German |
| Panzer | Panzer | Armored vehicle | Refers to a tank in German |
| Über | Über | Over, above | Used as a prefix to denote superiority in German |
| Neanderthal | Neandertal | An extinct species of human | Refers to the Neander Valley in Germany |
| Lager | Lager | A type of beer | Refers to storage or a type of beer in German |
| Pretzel | Brezel | A type of baked bread | A popular snack in Germany |
| Schmaltz | Schmalz | Excessive sentimentality | Refers to rendered fat or something overly sentimental |
| Dachshund | Dachshund | A breed of dog | Known as the “badger dog” in German |
| Gesundheit | Gesundheit | Bless you! (after someone sneezes) | Used the same way in German |
3. How These Words Can Help You Learn German
Now that you’re familiar with these 35 German words in English, you can leverage them to enhance your German language skills. Here’s how:
a) Recognize Them in German Media
When watching German movies, listening to songs, or following TV shows, keep an ear out for these words. Recognizing them will boost your understanding and make it easier to follow along.
b) Use Them in Conversation
Start incorporating these words into your conversations when speaking German. Since you’re already familiar with their meanings, using them will feel natural and give you confidence in your speaking skills.
c) Expand Your Vocabulary
Once you’re comfortable with these borrowed words, start exploring related German vocabulary. For example, if you know “Autobahn,” you might want to learn words related to driving and transportation in German.
d) Practice with Language Exchange Partners
Find a language exchange partner or join a conversation group to practice using these words in real-life scenarios. The more you use them, the more ingrained they’ll become in your vocabulary.
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4. Tips for Making the Most of Borrowed Words
To maximize the benefits of learning German through these borrowed words, consider the following tips:
- Use Flashcards: Create flashcards with the German word on one side and the English equivalent on the other. Test yourself regularly to reinforce your memory.
- Engage with German Content: Watch German films, listen to German podcasts, or read German articles that incorporate these words. Contextual learning is highly effective.
- Practice Speaking: Try to use these words in sentences when speaking German, whether with a tutor, a friend, or even to yourself. Speaking out loud solidifies learning.
- Keep a Vocabulary Journal: Write down each new word you learn along with a sentence using it. This helps with retention and gives you a handy reference.
Conclusion
Learning German doesn’t have to be daunting, especially when you start with words you already know. By recognizing and using these 35 English words borrowed from German, you can quickly build your confidence and expand your vocabulary. Whether you’re watching a German movie, enjoying a song, or having a conversation, these words will help you understand and communicate more effectively.
So, start incorporating these familiar German words into your learning routine, and watch your German language skills improve rapidly. Happy learning!
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Final Thoughts:
- Recognize these words in everyday German conversations.
- Use them as stepping stones to learn more complex vocabulary.
- Enjoy the process—learning a language is an exciting adventure!
