du bist gemein
The German phrase for "you're mean" is du bist gemein.
This phrase is used to tell someone that they are being unkind or cruel.
What does it mean word for word?
The adjective gemein literally means "mean" or "unkind," though in other contexts it can also mean "common" or "vulgar."
Which one should you use?
While du bist gemein is typically used among children, peers or in casual settings, a more serious way to describe someone as cruel would be Du bist grausam.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Switzerland, Du bisch fies. is used to convey that someone is being mean.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form changes depending on who you are addressing: use Sie sind gemein for a formal singular or plural "you", du bist gemein for an informal singular "you" and Ihr seid gemein if you are telling a group of people that they are being mean.
Did you know?
- In some contexts, gemein can describe a 'mean' or 'common' property that is shared by a group, reflecting its root meaning of 'community'.
- The pronoun du shares the same ancient roots as the English word 'thou', which was once the standard way to say 'you' in English.
- Depending on the region, a speaker might swap gemein for fies to describe a 'mean' trick, which carries a nuance of being 'sneaky'.
Examples in context
- Du bist gemein.You're mean.This is a simple translation of the phrase.Tatoeba #2297459 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2203075 by CK
- Ich bin sicher, du hast es absichtlich getan, du bist gemein.I'm sure you did it on purpose, you're mean.This sentence is used to express that someone's action was done on purpose and was mean.Tatoeba #9725809 by carlosalberto, translation #9725739 by carlosalberto
- Du bist gemein zu mir.You are mean to me.
Example conversation
Two friends are arguing over a game.
- FelixDu hast mich angelogen!You lied to me!
- SarahDas war nur ein Witz.It was only a joke.
- FelixNein, du bist gemein.No, you're mean.
- SarahEs tut mir leid, Felix.I am sorry, Felix.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bist, du, gemein, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
