dicke Eier
/ˈdɪkə ˈaɪ̯ər/word by word
The English phrase 'big balls' can be translated into German as dicke Eier.
This is a slang expression used to describe someone who has a lot of courage or bravery.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase translates to 'thick eggs'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
dicke Eier is a vulgar slang expression and should be used with caution in polite company.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈdɪkə ˈaɪ̯ər/
Did you know?
- While dicke Eier implies courage, the related phrase keine Eier haben (to have no eggs) is a common way to call someone a coward regardless of their actual gender.
- Using dicke Eier is much more polarizing than the English 'big balls'. While both are vulgar, the German phrase carries a heavier weight of social impropriety in many professional or semi-formal settings.
- The word dick is used in other slang phrases to mean 'big' or 'impressive', such as ein dickes Ding, which refers to a significant event or a large deal.
Examples in context
- Wow, bist du mutig! Dicke Eier, mein Freund!Wow, you're brave! Big balls, my friend!
- Er hat wirklich dicke Eier.He really has big balls.
- Du brauchst dicke Eier für diesen Job.You need big balls for this job.
- Das war Mut, du hast dicke Eier.That was brave, you have big balls.
Example conversation
Maximilian tells Sarah about a risky decision he made.
- MaximilianIch habe gestern einfach gekündigt.I just quit my job yesterday.
- SarahWahnsinn, da hast du echt dicke Eier!Crazy, you really have big balls!
- MaximilianIch wollte es einfach wissen.I just wanted to find out.
- SarahIch bewundere deinen Mut, Maximilian.I admire your courage, Maximilian.
