German False Friends: Traps for the Unwary393

When learning a foreign language, it is important to be aware of false friends—words that appear to be similar to words in your native language but have different meanings or connotations. German is no exception, and there are a number of common false friends that can trip up even the most experienced language learners.

Accident

In English, an accident is an unfortunate event that happens unexpectedly and unintentionally. In German, however, the word "Unfall" specifically refers to a traffic accident. For a general accident, the word "Unglück" should be used.

Actually

The English word "actually" is often used to emphasize a point or to correct a previous statement. In German, the word "eigentlich" has a different meaning, closer to "really" or "in fact." To emphasize a point, the word "wirklich" should be used.

Assistant

In English, an assistant is someone who helps someone else with their work. In German, the word "Assistent" has a more specific meaning, referring to a person who helps a doctor or other medical professional.

Bank

In English, a bank is a financial institution that accepts deposits and makes loans. In German, the word "Bank" has a broader meaning, referring to any type of bench or seat. To refer to a financial institution, the word "Bankhaus" should be used.

Capital

In English, capital can refer to a city, a sum of money, or a type of punishment. In German, the word "Kapital" has a more specific meaning, referring to capital in the economic sense, as in "capital gains" or "capital investments."

Chief

In English, a chief is a leader or head of an organization. In German, the word "Chef" has a more specific meaning, referring to the head of a company or department.

Clever

In English, clever can mean intelligent or skillful. In German, the word "clever" has a more negative connotation, closer to "cunning" or "sly."

Comfort

In English, comfort can refer to a feeling of well-being or to something that provides physical or emotional support. In German, the word "Komfort" has a more specific meaning, referring to the physical comforts of life, such as a comfortable chair or a warm bed.

Curtain

In English, a curtain is a piece of fabric that is hung over a window or door to block out light or provide privacy. In German, the word "Gardine" has a narrower meaning, referring to a sheer or lace curtain that is hung over a window.

Debit

In English, a debit is a transaction that reduces the balance of an account. In German, the word "Debet" has a different meaning, referring to the left-hand side of an account statement, where debits are recorded.

Embarrass

In English, to embarrass someone is to make them feel ashamed or awkward. In German, the word "embarrassieren" has a weaker meaning, closer to "to inconvenience" or "to cause trouble."

Garage

In English, a garage is a building where cars are parked or repaired. In German, the word "Garage" has a more specific meaning, referring to a garage that is attached to a house.

Gift

In English, a gift is something that is given to someone without expecting anything in return. In German, the word "Gift" has a more specific meaning, referring to a poisonous substance.

Nice

In English, nice can mean pleasant or agreeable. In German, the word "nett" has a more informal meaning, closer to "nice" or "kind." To describe something as pleasant or agreeable, the word "angenehm" should be used.

Present

In English, a present is a gift that is given on a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary. In German, the word "Präsent" has a more specific meaning, referring to a gift that is given to someone in recognition of their achievements or services.

2024-11-24

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