Kumpel
[ˈkʊmpl̩]
The English word 'pal' is translated into German as Kumpel.
Kumpel is a colloquial term used to refer to a friend.
Meaning: (colloquial) a friend (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word originally referred to a coal miner working alongside another, which is why it carries a sense of camaraderie.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Kumpel is an informal and colloquial term.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun Kumpel is used in both the singular and plural forms without changing its spelling.
Did you know?
- Calling a stranger Kumpel in a condescending tone can be perceived as aggressive or overly familiar, similar to using 'pal' or 'bud' in English during a confrontation.
- Because Kumpel is a diminutive, it literally translates to 'little companion' or 'little worker'.
- While Kumpel is used nationwide, it is most strongly associated with the Ruhr area of Germany, where the coal mining culture remains a core part of the regional identity.
Examples in context
- Wirf mal einen Blick in den Spiegel, Kumpel.Look in the mirror, pal.This sentence is useful for seeing how to address someone as Kumpel.Tatoeba #5320160 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1640240 by Spamster
- Hey Kumpel, wie geht es dir?Hey pal, how are you doing?
- Er ist ein guter Kumpel von mir.He is a good pal of mine.
- Ich treffe mich heute mit einem Kumpel.I am meeting a pal today.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking at a cafe about their weekend plans.
- LauraWas machst du am Wochenende, Lukas?What are you doing this weekend, Lukas?
- LukasIch gehe mit einem Kumpel ins Kino.I am going to the cinema with a pal.
- LauraDas klingt nach einem guten Plan.That sounds like a good plan.
- LukasJa, mein Kumpel hat schon Tickets gekauft.Yes, my pal has already bought tickets.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Kumpel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Kumpel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
