Welcome to the ultimate glossary of German idioms and their English translations! Here you will find more than 700 idioms used in German-speaking countries, and their English meanings. For a bit of fun, the literal translations are also provided.
Um den heißen Brei herumreden
Literal Translation – Talk around the hot porridge.
English Meaning – Beat around the bush.
Literal Translation – Talk around the hot porridge.
English Meaning – Beat around the bush.
Da kannst du Gift drauf nehmen
Literal Translation – You can put poison on that!
English Meaning – You can bet your life on it!
This following German idiom doesn’t sound very friendly, but it means that something is a sure thing. For example, if someone asks if you think you’ll pass your next German exam, you can respond with this phrase.
Sich zum Affen machen
Sich zum Affen machen
Zwei Fliegen mit einer Klappe schlagen
Zwei Fliegen mit einer Klappe schlagen
Eine Extrawurst verlangen
Literal Translation – Demand an extra sausage.
English Meaning – Demand special treatment
Imagine the entitlement someone must have to demand an extra sausage! Although this German idiom includes a food reference, use this expression to speak about entitled individuals in a disapproving tone.
Warum verlangst du immer eine Extrawurst?! (Why do you always demand special treatment?!)
Himmel und Hölle in Bewegung setzen
Literal Translation – Set heaven and hell in motion.
English Meaning – Move heaven and earth.
When you think of a romantic phrase to say to your loved one, you probably don’t think about including the word “hell.” In German, it’s completely acceptable to say you’ll do anything to achieve a goal.
Ich setze Himmel und Hölle in Bewegung. (I’m moving heaven and earth.)
