🚫🤬

How to Say ‘That's not a swear word.’ in German

Das ist kein Schimpfwort.

dahs ist kine SHIMPF-vort

[dahs ist kine SHIMPF-vort]

💬 Usage Tip: This is schimpfen "to scold" plus Wort "word", so literally a "scolding word".

Phrase Breakdown

Das ist

dahs ist

That is

A basic sentence opener. Link the words: 'dasist'.

Example

Das ist gut.

That is good.

Words in this phrase

Das

[dahs]

that / it

Can refer to a thing, item, or dish in front of you.

Example

Was ist das? Das Wort das can mean that or it.

What is that? The word das can mean that or it.

ist

[ist]

A form of the verb 'sein' used for singular subjects.

Example

Für viele Bewerber Ist ein gutes Teamklima entscheidend.

For many applicants, a good team climate is crucial.

kein Schimpfwort.

kine SHIMPF-vort

not a swear word

'kein' negates a noun. 'Schimpfwort' combines 'schimpfen' (to scold) and 'Wort' (word). Say the 'pf' clearly.

Example

Mist ist kein Schimpfwort.

'Mist' is not a swear word.

Words in this phrase

kein

[kine]

no / not a

Used with Problem to form the polite phrase Kein Problem.

Example

Kein Problem, wir finden einen neuen Termin.

No problem, we’ll find a new appointment.

Schimpfwort

[SHIMPF-vort]

swear word / insult

A rude word used to insult or curse; from 'schimpfen' (to scold) and 'Wort' (word).

Example

Kinder lernen schnell neue Schimpfwörter.

Children quickly learn new swear words.

Guides for German learners

Duolingo vs Pimsleur: Tapping on a Screen or Talking Out Loud?Duolingo vs Pimsleur: five minutes of tapping versus thirty minutes of speaking. What each is good at, what each costs, and which to pick for your goal.

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