Backpfeifengesicht
The English phrase "slap face" is translated into German as Backpfeifengesicht.
Backpfeifengesicht refers to a face that looks as if it deserves to be slapped. If you want to express the action of giving a slap, you might use the informal phrase Ohrfeige verpassen.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of Backpfeife (a slap to the cheek) and Gesicht (face).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Bavaria, the phrase eine Watschn geben is used to mean to give a slap.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because Backpfeifengesicht is a neuter noun, use the indefinite article ein to say "a slap face" (ein Backpfeifengesicht).
Did you know?
- While Backpfeifengesicht is a single word in German, the French use the phrase tête à claques and Italians use faccia da schiaffi to describe the same concept.
- Despite the aggressive imagery of the word, it is often used in a humorous or teasing way among friends rather than as a literal threat of violence.
- In German, the word Backpfeife specifically targets the 'Backen' or cheeks, whereas the alternative Ohrfeige focuses on the 'Ohr' or ear.
Examples in context
- Als Reaktion auf seine respektlose Bemerkung habe ich ihm eine Ohrfeige gegeben.In response to his disrespectful comment, I gave him a slap in the face.
- Ich kann es nicht tolerieren, dass er mir eine Ohrfeige gegeben hat.I cannot tolerate that he slapped me.
- Nach einem respektlosen Kommentar hat der Vorgesetzte eine Backpfeife ausgeteilt.After a disrespectful comment, the supervisor dealt a slap.
- Er hat ihm eine Watschn gegeben, weil er frech war.He slapped him because he was cheeky.
- Er hat ein echtes Backpfeifengesicht.He has a real face that deserves a slap.
- Dieses Kind hat ein totales Backpfeifengesicht.This child has a total slap-worthy face.
- Warum schaust du so mit deinem Backpfeifengesicht?Why are you looking at me with that face that deserves a slap?
Example conversation
Two friends are watching a reality TV show.
- HannahSchau dir diesen Typen an!Look at that guy!
- LukasEr hat wirklich ein Backpfeifengesicht.He really has a face that deserves a slap.
- HannahDas stimmt, er ist so arrogant.That's true, he is so arrogant.
- LukasIch kann ihn einfach nicht leiden.I just can't stand him.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Backpfeifengesicht, CC BY-SA 4.0.
