German Language Day
Experience the language and beautiful culture of Germany. From "Guten Tag" to "Auf Wiedersehen", German is a language worth exploring.
Known as “Tag der deutschen Sprache” (in the German language, of course!), German Language Day offers an opportunity to appreciate the language and culture of this European Country.
How to Celebrate German Language Day
Enjoy the celebration of German Language Day by paying heed to the day in some fun ways. Check out some of these ideas or come up with some other creative ways of your own:
Learn Some German Language Words
One of the best ways to celebrate German Language Day would obviously be to speak German all day! But for those who are not yet bilingual, at least this would be a good opportunity to learn a few new words to take into the future. Here are a few German Language words to get started with:
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Danke means ‘thank you’. This word is one of the most important for anyone who might ever visit a German-speaking country.
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Bitte means ‘please’. Another vital word for politeness within the German language.
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Guten Morgen means ‘good morning’. This is a great phrase for English speakers because it sounds so similar.
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Entschuldigung means ‘excuse me’. Okay, pronouncing this one might be a bit more challenging–but try it anyway. It might even be fun!
Take a German Language Class
Those who have ‘learn a foreign language’ on their bucket list might use German Language Day as the motivation to get started on checking that item off the list.
In today’s world of technology, getting access to learn a language is easier than ever. With online courses, smartphone apps and live lessons with someone living on the other side of the world, learning the German Language has never been more accessible.
Read a German Author or Watch a German Film
For those who aren’t ready to start learning German yet, one way to show appreciation would be to read a translated version of a book that was originally written by a German author.
Or, even less of a commitment would be to watch a film that was made in German but has English subtitles. Enjoy the unique sense of culture or sound of the language in honor of German Language Day.
History of German Language Day
It is believed that the German Language, or “Deutsch” got its start more than 2,000 years ago. Some records exist showing that people from the 1st century in the Roman Empire may have come across German speakers.
Now, German is the most widely spoken official, or co-official language in several European countries including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Lichtenstein, and even the province of Italy called Tyrol.
With roots that are similar, the German and English languages tend to share quite a bit of vocabulary and are considered to be 60% similar, lexically speaking.
The German Language Association seem to have started German Language Day and, since then, it has also been endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly and Conference.
The purpose of the day is simply to encourage people to appreciate the beauty of the German language and the various cultures that embrace it as their own.
German Language Day FAQs
How did the Brothers Grimm influence the German language?
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, famous for their fairy tales, also compiled the “Deutsches Wörterbuch,” an extensive German dictionary.
Their work preserved many regional words and dialects, enriching the language’s diversity.
What is the longest word in the German language?
German is known for its compound words. One of the longest was “Rindfleischetikettierungsüberwachungsaufgabenübertragungsgesetz,” a 63-letter term referring to a law about beef labeling.
Though now obsolete, it showcases the language’s unique ability to form lengthy terms.
How does the United Nations celebrate German Language Day?
The UN observes German Language Day around July 1st, marking the anniversary of its German Translation Section.
Celebrations include film screenings, free German classes, and cultural events, promoting multilingualism within the organization.
Are there unique German words without direct English translations?
Yes, German has words like “Fernweh,” describing a longing for distant places, and “Kummerspeck,” literally “grief bacon,” referring to weight gained from emotional eating.
These terms capture specific feelings not easily expressed in English.
How do schools in the Netherlands celebrate German Language Day?
Some Dutch schools, like the European School The Hague, organize activities such as quizzes, escape rooms, and cultural presentations to honor the day, highlighting the close cultural ties between the neighboring countries.
What role does German play in classical music terminology?
Many musical terms are German, reflecting the country’s influence on classical music.
Words like “Leitmotiv” (leading motif) and “Gesamtkunstwerk” (total work of art) are used internationally, underscoring Germany’s rich musical heritage.
Are there any myths or misconceptions about the German language?
A common misconception is that German is harsh-sounding. However, its sound varies with dialects and contexts. For instance, Swiss German often sounds softer, and the language’s poetic literature showcases its melodic qualities.
How has the German language influenced science and philosophy?
German has been pivotal in science and philosophy. Terms like “Zeitgeist” (spirit of the time) and “Weltanschauung” (worldview) originate from German, reflecting its significant contributions to these fields.
What are some unique ways people celebrate German Language Day worldwide?
Beyond Germany, institutions like the Goethe-Institut host events such as film screenings, language workshops, and cultural exhibitions, fostering global appreciation for the German language.
How does the structure of the German language accommodate long compound words?
German allows the combination of multiple nouns to form compound words, creating specific terms for complex concepts. This linguistic feature enables precise expression but can result in notably long words.
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