All languages have them, descriptive words with a lot of meaning, but the Germans have made it an art form. A few examples that strike home today:
- Verschlimmbessern: It means “to make things worse by trying to improve them.”
- Weltschmerz: It describes that melancholic feeling that comes from realizing how hard it is living in the modern world.
- Erklärungsnot: Having to explain yourself quickly.
- Treppenwitz: Someone makes a joke or a witty comment, and you are left speechless, unable to figure out what to say in response to sound just as smart or funny. After the moment has passed, your brain comes up with the perfect response, but it is just too late to say it. That moment right there is treppenwitz.
- Achtungenasshitler: When an allied nation votes in a monstrous leader that emulates a German historical figure.
- Fraidassholenswine: People so ignorant and frightened they believe a candidates lies and vote for him.
- Schadenfreude: translates to “damage joy,” and it describes the feeling of happiness that comes from seeing another person fail, or enjoying someone’s distress. (See: Russian reaction to American Presidential Election).
Interesting…or not.