ein Schimpfwort
/aɪ̯n ˈʃɪmpfˌvɔʁt/word by word
The German phrase for "a swear word" is ein Schimpfwort.
Schimpfwort is a general term used to describe an insult or a swear word.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Schimpfwort is a compound noun consisting of Schimpf (scolding or insult) and Wort (word).
Which one should you use?
While Schimpfwort is the general term for a swear word, Fluchwort is used specifically when referring to a curse or an oath.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Schimpfwort is Schimpfwörter.
How do you pronounce it?
/aɪ̯n ˈʃɪmpfˌvɔʁt/
Did you know?
- German has a vast category of 'Fäkalsprache', or 'fecal language', where many common swear words are actually derived from bodily functions rather than religious blasphemy.
- Certain archaic Schimpfwörter were once legally punishable in German courts, and using them could result in a fine for 'insulting the honor' of another person.
- Some German Schimpfwörter are combined into long compound nouns, allowing speakers to create highly specific insults that describe a person's exact character flaw.
Examples in context
- Scheiße ist ein Schimpfwort.Shit is a swear word.This sentence is useful for identifying the term ein Schimpfwort by using a specific example.Tatoeba #12540961 by Naina, translation #9550172 by Dmitrij15
- Das ist ein Schimpfwort.That is a swear word.
- Ich kenne ein Schimpfwort auf Englisch.I know a swear word in English.
Example conversation
Hannah and Lukas are talking about a movie.
- HannahHast du gerade ein Schimpfwort benutzt?Did you just use a swear word?
- LukasNein, das war nur ein Witz.No, that was just a joke.
- HannahIch finde das nicht lustig, Lukas.I don't find that funny, Lukas.
- LukasEntschuldigung, ich mache es nicht mehr.Sorry, I won't do it again.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (ein, Schimpfwort) and can differ in connected speech.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
