10 common German slang expressions

The German language is rich with interesting and unique idioms that often carry cultural significance. This article presents ten common German slang expressions that will help you better understand everyday communication.

1. Bis über beide Ohren

Meaning

It describes someone who is head over heels in love or very involved.

Example

Er ist bis über beide Ohren in sie verliebt.
(He is head over heels in love with her.)

2. Um den heißen Brei herumreden

Meaning

To talk around the point, meaning not saying what one really thinks directly.

Example

Du redest um den heißen Brei herum. Sag mir, was du wirklich denkst!
(You are beating around the bush. Tell me what you really think!)

3. Den Nagel auf den Kopf treffen

Meaning

It describes someone saying exactly the right thing or hitting the nail on the head.

Example

Mit deiner Analyse hast du den Nagel auf den Kopf getroffen.
(Your analysis hit the nail on the head.)

4. Jemandem einen Bären aufbinden

Meaning

It means to deceive or lie to someone.

Example

Er hat mir einen Bären aufgebunden, als er sagte, er könne zaubern.
(He lied to me when he said he could do magic.)

5. Ins Gras beißen

Meaning

It means to die or to be close to death.

Example

Nach dem Unfall hat er ins Gras gebissen.
(He died after the accident.)

6. Schaum schlagen

Meaning

It describes something being very exciting or lively.

Example

Die Party hat richtig Schaum geschlagen! Ich hatte viel Spaß.
(The party was really exciting! I had a lot of fun.)

7. Über den Tellerrand schauen

Meaning

It means being open to other perspectives or ideas.

Example

Du solltest über den Tellerrand schauen und neue Ansichten ausprobieren.
(You should broaden your horizons and try out new views.)

8. Sich in die Nesseln setzen

Meaning

It means creating an uncomfortable situation or getting into trouble.

Example

Mit dieser Bemerkung hast du dich in die Nesseln gesetzt.
(You got yourself into trouble with that comment.)

9. Die Nase voll haben

Meaning

It describes having enough of something or not being able to stand it anymore.

Example

Ich habe die Nase voll von deinen Ausreden.
(I have had enough of your excuses.)

10. Fünf gerade sein lassen

Meaning

It means to not overreact or take things lightly.

Example

Lass die Sache ruhig, lass fünf gerade sein.
(Take it easy, it's not a big deal.)