Exploring German Idioms: Origins and Meanings

German is rich with idioms that are often used without a second thought. Understanding their origins can shed light on their meanings and add a layer of appreciation for the language.

“Alter Schwede” (Old Swede)

Meaning

This idiom is used to express great astonishment or surprise. It can also be used as a friendly term for a friend or buddy.

Origin

The phrase dates back to the end of the Thirty Years’ War in 1648. Following a significant defeat for the Protestants under Frederick William, the Great Elector sought assistance from his strongest opponent. He recruited experienced Swedish soldiers to train his own army. These Swedish soldiers were treated with great respect due to their superior performance, and they were respectfully addressed as “Alter Schwede.” This designation has remained in use to this day.

“Mein lieber Scholli” (My dear Scholli)

Meaning

Similar to “Alter Schwede,” this phrase is an exclamation of wonder. However, its meaning has evolved over time. Initially, it was used somewhat mockingly to suggest someone had a lot of nonsense in their head.

Origin

The idiom is named after the Austrian poet and composer Ferdinand Joly, nicknamed “Scholli.” Joly was expelled from his university in 1783 but continued to pursue his artistic endeavors without concern for others’ opinions. He wrote peasant comedies, satirical songs, and funeral dirges. Joly was affectionately called “Mein lieber Scholli” because, for his time, he was considered somewhat eccentric yet endearing.

“Auf 180 sein” (To be at 180)

Meaning

When someone is “auf 180,” it means they are extremely agitated or furious about a situation.

Origin

This idiom can be understood by equating it to “raging with anger.” The expression uses a number to quantify the intensity of one’s anger, drawing a comparison to the speed of 180 kilometers per hour on the highway.

“08/15” (Oh-eight-fifeen)

Meaning

This idiom is used to describe something as average, ordinary, or even boring.

Origin

The origin of this phrase is linked to the MG 08/15, a machine gun used during World War I. “08” represents the year the rifle was introduced (1908), and “15” denotes the year it was further developed (1915). Soldiers underwent monotonous daily training with the MG 08/15, which became tedious, leading “08/15” to become synonymous with boredom. Another theory suggests that the quality of the rifles declined during the war, leading “08/15” to represent low value or poor quality.