False Friends: Beware of Cognates That Can Trip You Up117

Language learners often rely on cognates, words that share a similar etymology and meaning in different languages, to expand their vocabulary. While cognates can be a helpful shortcut, it's important to be aware of "false friends," words that may look or sound similar to cognates but have different meanings.

In the case of German and English, there are numerous false friends that can lead to misunderstandings or even embarrassment. Here are some examples of common false cognates between German and English:actual (English) vs. aktuell (German)

In English, "actual" means "real" or "current." In German, "aktuell" also means "current," but it refers to something that is happening now, not necessarily something that is true or real.Advice (English) vs. Rat (German)

In English, "advice" is a noun that refers to counsel or guidance. In German, "Rat" can be a noun that means "council" or "advice," but it can also be a verb that means "to advise" or "to guess.assistance (English) vs. Assistenz (German)

In English, "assistance" is a noun that refers to help or support. In German, "Assistenz" can also mean "assistance," but it typically refers to a specific person who provides professional or technical support.embarrassed (English) vs. peinlich (German)

In English, "embarrassed" means to feel ashamed or awkward. In German, "peinlich" also means "embarrassing," but it can also refer to something that is embarrassing, such as a mistake or a social faux pas.expectation (English) vs. Erwartung (German)

In English, "expectation" refers to something that is anticipated or expected. In German, "Erwartung" also means "expectation," but it can also refer to a hope or a desire.hobby (English) vs. Hobby (German)

In English, "hobby" refers to an activity that is done for pleasure or relaxation. In German, "Hobby" also means "hobby," but it can also refer to a favorite subject or topic of interest.interest (English) vs. Interesse (German)

In English, "interest" refers to a feeling of curiosity or concern. In German, "Interesse" also means "interest," but it can also refer to a financial or economic interest.love (English) vs. Liebe (German)

In English, "love" is a strong emotional attachment. In German, "Liebe" also means "love," but it can also refer to a more general feeling of affection or fondness.moment (English) vs. Moment (German)

In English, "moment" refers to a short period of time. In German, "Moment" also means "moment," but it can also refer to a specific point in time or a particular situation.police (English) vs. Polizei (German)

In English, "police" refers to the law enforcement agency. In German, "Polizei" also means "police," but it can also refer to a specific police officer or a police station.

These are just a few examples of the many false friends that exist between German and English. It's important for language learners to be aware of these potential pitfalls and to double-check the meaning of any unfamiliar words before using them.

2025-01-14

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