Learning a language goes beyond just words and grammar – it’s about getting to know the culture too! German is full of interesting sayings that give you a glimpse into how Germans think. Here are 12 popular German phrases that you should definitely know:

1. “Ich kriege so eine Krawatte”

• Translation: “I get such a tie.”
• Meaning: This funny expression means you’re really frustrated or angry – like you feel a tight knot in your throat, as if your tie is too tight!
• Example:
  It really annoys me when my roommate steals my food.

2. “Morgenstund hat Gold im Mund”

• Translation: “The morning hour has gold in its mouth.”
• Meaning: It’s all about waking up early and being productive – like we say, “The early bird catches the worm.”
• Example:
  Waking up early is the key to success!

3. “Übung macht den Meister”

• Translation: “Practice makes the master.”
• Meaning: Just like we say, “Practice makes perfect.” If you keep practicing, you’ll get better at anything.
• Example:
  If you want to improve, keep practicing – Übung macht den Meister!

4. “Alle guten Dinge sind drei”

• Translation: “All good things come in threes.”
• Meaning: Germans believe that things work out well when they come in sets of three – whether it’s luck or success!
• Example:
  After two failed attempts, it finally worked – good things come in threes!

5. “Da liegt der Hund begraben”

• Translation: “That’s where the dog is buried.”
• Meaning: This means you’ve found the real problem or hidden truth in a situation.
• Example:
  Ah, now we know what the issue is – that’s the root of the problem.

6. “Leben wie Gott in Frankreich”

• Translation: “Live like God in France.”
• Meaning: It’s all about living the high life – enjoying luxury and comfort.
• Example:
  With all that money, he’s living like a king – life is good!

7. “Kleine Geschenke erhalten die Freundschaft”

• Translation: “Small gifts keep the friendship.”
• Meaning: A little gesture or gift can go a long way in keeping relationships strong.
• Example:
  A small gift for a friend can make all the difference!

8. “Aus einer Mücke einen Elefanten machen”

• Translation: “Make an elephant out of a mosquito.”
• Meaning: Don’t make a big deal out of something small – stop exaggerating!
• Example:
  You’re overreacting – don’t make a mountain out of a molehill.

9. “Jeder Topf findet seinen Deckel”

• Translation: “Every pot finds its lid.”
• Meaning: Everyone has a perfect match – it’s just a matter of time before you find yours.
• Example:
  Don’t worry, you’ll find your perfect match someday!

10. “Die Katze aus dem Sack lassen”

• Translation: “Let the cat out of the bag.”
• Meaning: Just like in English, it means to reveal a secret or surprise before you’re supposed to.
• Example:
  Oops! He accidentally revealed the surprise plan.

11. “Ende gut, alles gut”

• Translation: “All’s well that ends well.”
• Meaning: If things end positively, it doesn’t matter how hard or complicated they were at the start.
• Example:
  It was a tough journey, but in the end, everything turned out fine.

12. “Was du heute kannst besorgen, das verschiebe nicht auf morgen”

• Translation: “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.”
• Meaning: Don’t procrastinate! If you can do something today, get it done instead of waiting until later.
• Example:
  Get it done now – don’t wait for tomorrow.

These fun German sayings give you a little peek into German culture and thinking. Want to learn more and dive into the German language? Join The Language SKOOL and start your language journey today!