verdammt
/fɛɐ̯.ˈdamt/
The English phrase "darn it" is translated into German as verdammt.
When used as an interjection by itself, Verdammt! functions as a common way to vent frustration, similar to "Darn it!" or "Dammit!" If you want to use it as an adjective, such as in "the damned bad day," it follows standard German adjective declension rules.
What does it mean word for word?
verdammt is the past participle of the verb verdammen, which means "to damn" or "to condemn".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
While verdammt is a common way to express annoyance, there are different levels of intensity and vulgarity available. Mist is a popular, versatile and casual way to express annoyance, much like "darn it". In contrast, Scheiße is a much stronger and more vulgar version of "damn" or "darn it". Additionally, adding noch mal to the phrase, Verdammt noch mal!, creates a colloquial expression that intensifies the frustration, similar to "Darn it all!"
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, verdammt follows standard German adjective declension rules.
How do you pronounce it?
/fɛɐ̯.ˈdamt/
Did you know?
- In German, the word Mist literally translates to 'manure' or 'dung', yet it is considered a very mild, almost child-friendly way to express frustration.
- In some German dialects, people replace verdammt with verflixt. This is a 'minced oath' used to soften the blow, much like how English speakers use 'darn' instead of 'damn'.
- Because verdammt is a past participle, calling someone a Verdammter turns the expression of frustration into a noun describing a 'condemned person'.
Examples in context
- Verdammt, ich habe meinen Schlüssel vergessen!Darn it, I forgot my key!
- Verdammt, der Bus ist schon weg.Darn it, the bus is already gone.
Example conversation
Felix accidentally dropped his phone in a puddle.
- SarahOh nein, was ist passiert?Oh no, what happened?
- FelixVerdammt, mein Handy ist nass geworden!Darn it, my phone got wet!
- SarahDas ist wirklich Pech, Felix.That is really bad luck, Felix.
- FelixJa, das ist echt verdammt ärgerlich.Yes, that is really darn annoying.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry verdammt, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
