Halt die verdammte Fresse
The English phrase "shut the hell up" can be translated into German as Halt die verdammte Fresse.
This phrase is an aggressive and vulgar command used to tell someone to stop talking immediately.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "Hold the damned snout/maw". In this context, Fresse is a vulgar term for an animal's mouth that is being applied to a human.
Which one should you use?
While Halt die verdammte Fresse is highly aggressive, Halt den Mund is a much more neutral and less offensive way to tell someone to be quiet.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Halt die verdammte Fresse is highly vulgar and aggressive. It is suitable only for extreme anger or heated arguments.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase Halt die verdammte Fresse uses the imperative singular form, meaning it is directed at only one person. To address a group of people, you must use the plural imperative Haltet die verdammte Fresse.
Did you know?
- In German, there are different verbs for 'to eat' depending on the species. Humans essen while animals fressen, making the use of Fresse particularly dehumanizing.
- The word Fresse can be used as a synonym for 'face' in a derogatory way, making the phrase a literal command to 'hold' or 'stop' the person's entire face.
- The verb fressen used to form the noun Fresse does not mean 'to eat' in a polite sense, but rather refers to an animal gulping down food.
Examples in context
- Halt die Klappe! Ich versuche, mich auf meine Arbeit zu konzentrieren.Shut your trap! I'm trying to concentrate on my work.
- Halt die verdammte Fresse!Shut the hell up!
- Ich kann nicht schlafen, also halt die verdammte Fresse.I can't sleep, so shut the hell up.
Example conversation
Lukas and Hannah are having a heated argument in a crowded cafe.
- LukasDu nervst mich nur noch mit deinem Gelaber!You're just annoying me with your constant babbling!
- HannahWas hast du gerade gesagt?What did you just say?
- LukasHalt die verdammte Fresse, Hannah!Shut the hell up, Hannah!
- HannahDu bist so ein unhöflicher Idiot.You are such a rude idiot.
