Bandit
/banˈdiːt/
The German word for "bandit" is Bandit.
A Bandit refers to an outlaw. In more formal contexts, you might use the term Gesetzloser to mean an outlaw, whereas in informal situations, the word Gauner is used to describe a rogue or a swindler.
Meaning: an outlaw (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Bandit is Banditen.
How do you pronounce it?
/banˈdiːt/
Did you know?
- In modern German, Bandit is frequently used to refer to a slot machine in a casino. These machines are called Einarmbanditen because they have one lever and 'steal' the player's money.
- Unlike the English 'bandit', which often evokes imagery of the American Wild West, the German Bandit historically brought to mind highwaymen in the forests of Central Europe.
- In child-directed speech, a child who misbehaves or steals a cookie might be jokingly called a kleiner Bandit meaning 'little bandit'.
Examples in context
- Er ist tatsächlich ein Bandit.He's a bandit alright.This sentence is useful for confirming that someone is indeed a Bandit.Tatoeba #13462431 by Vortarulo, translation #6616306 by Eccles17
- Bandit!Bandit!This sentence shows the word Bandit used as an exclamation.Tatoeba #13114928 by felix63, translation #13450393 by rul
- Ich bin gestern einem Gauner begegnet, der versucht hat, mich zu betrügen.Yesterday, I encountered a bandit who tried to deceive me.
- Die Gesetzlosen wurden letztendlich von der Polizei gefasst.The outlaws were eventually caught by the police.
Example conversation
Laura and Lukas are watching an old Western movie.
- LauraIst der Bandit in dem Film böse?Is the bandit in the movie evil?
- LukasJa, er ist ein gefährlicher Bandit.Yes, he is a dangerous bandit.
- LauraLukas, glaubst du, er wird gefangen?Lukas, do you think he will be caught?
- LukasIch glaube schon.I think so.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Bandit, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
