Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Typ | [tyːp] (narrow) | masculine |
| Kerl | /kɛʁl/ | masculine |
Both Typ and Kerl are used to refer to a male person. Typ is an informal way to say 'guy' and can also mean 'type' or 'character' in a general sense. When used for a person, it functions as a countable noun, such as 'ein Typ' (a guy). Kerl is a slightly informal term meaning 'guy' or 'fellow', often used to describe a man with a strong or rugged character, similar to calling someone a 'tough guy'.
Which one should you use?
While Typ can refer to a 'type' or 'kind' of thing, in a social context it specifically means 'guy'. Kerl differs by carrying a connotation of being a 'fellow' or 'bloke', often implying a certain toughness or ruggedness.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Bursche is a colloquial term used to refer to young men or lads in parts of southern Germany, such as Bavaria, as well as in Austria.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Typ is Typen, and the plural form of Kerl is Kerle.
Did you know?
- Unlike the English 'guy' which can be used in a group like 'hey guys', you cannot use Typen in the same casual, group-address way in German.
- The German word Kerl is a linguistic relative of the English word 'churl'. While 'churl' now implies rudeness, both words originally referred to a free man of the lowest rank.
Examples in context
- Wer ist der Typ?Who is that guy?This sentence is useful for identifying a specific person using Typ.Tatoeba #2289317 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2270205 by _undertoad
- Tom ist ein Typ.Tom is a guy.This sentence is useful for describing someone as Typ.Tatoeba #12051725 by mayabe, translation #11963198 by CK
- Der Typ ist tot.This guy is dead.This sentence is useful for describing a person's state using Typ.Tatoeba #13048638 by Yorwba, translation #12811923 by CK
- Der Mann am Empfang ist sehr höflich.The guy at reception is very polite.
- Ich treffe mich heute Abend mit einem Kerl, den ich auf einer Party kennengelernt habe.I'm meeting up with a guy I met at a party tonight.
- Der Typ, den ich gestern getroffen habe, war wirklich nett.The guy I met yesterday was really nice.
- Die Burschen spielen Fußball im Park.The guys are playing soccer in the park.
- 284 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hannah and Felix are talking about a new person in their class.
- HannahIst das der neue Typ?Is that the new guy?
- FelixJa, er ist ein netter Typ.Yes, he is a nice guy.
- HannahDer Typ sieht sehr sportlich aus.The guy looks very athletic.
- FelixEr ist wirklich ein cooler Typ.He is a really cool guy.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “guy” translations and entries Typ, Kerl, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Kerl, Typ, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
