Schrotflinte
/ˈʃʁoːtflɪntə/
The English phrase 'shotgun' is translated into German as Schrotflinte.
In this context, the word refers to the front seat next to the driver.
Meaning: front seat next to driver (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʃʁoːtflɪntə/
Did you know?
- If you shout Schrotflinte! to claim the passenger seat in Germany, people might react with alarm. Since the word refers strictly to the weapon and lacks the English 'seat' association, they may think you are brandishing a firearm.
- The word Schrotflinte is actually a pleonasm, meaning it repeats itself. Since all guns called Flinte are designed to fire small shot, calling one a Schrotflinte is like saying 'small shot gun'.
- The word Schrot does not only refer to ammunition but can also mean 'scrap' or 'waste' in other German contexts.
Examples in context
- Ist es möglich, dass ich vorne sitzen kann?Is it possible for me to sit in the front?
Example conversation
Felix and Hannah are walking toward the car.
- FelixSchrotflinte!Shotgun!
- HannahZu spät, ich war schneller.Too late, I was faster.
- FelixAber ich wollte die Schrotflinte!But I wanted shotgun!
- HannahSetz dich einfach nach hinten, Felix.Just sit in the back, Felix.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Schrotflinte, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Schrotflinte, CC BY-SA 4.0.
