clown
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clown
A performer, usually in a circus or variety show, who makes the audience laugh through a funny costume, makeup, and comic performances.
Die Kinder lachten über den Clown, der ständig über seine eigenen Füße stolperte.
The children laughed at the clown, who kept tripping over his own feet.
clown
A derogatory term for a person who behaves foolishly, clumsily, or in a way that cannot be taken seriously.
Hör auf, so ein Clown zu sein und nimm die Sache endlich ernst!
Stop being such a clown and finally take this seriously!
In the literal meaning, 'Clown' is often used in fixed phrases that describe the profession or costume, for example 'als Clown arbeiten' (to work as a clown), 'sich als Clown verkleiden' (to dress up as a clown), or 'ein Clown im Zirkus' (a clown in the circus).
Zum Karneval hat er sich als lustiger Clown verkleidet.
For Carnival, he dressed up as a funny clown.
A very common figurative use is the phrase 'sich zum Clown machen' (to make a clown of oneself). It means that someone behaves ridiculously or foolishly and embarrasses themselves in the process.
Mit seiner unüberlegten Aktion hat er sich vor allen zum Clown gemacht.
With his rash action, he made a clown of himself in front of everyone.
You can recognize the derogatory meaning from the tone and context. If someone is directly called a 'Clown' or the topic is inappropriate behavior, it is usually meant negatively. The neutral meaning is often connected to the context of a circus, party, or costume.
Sei doch nicht so ein Clown und setz dich ordentlich hin!
Don't be such a clown; sit down properly!
monkey / ape
Both words can describe a person who behaves foolishly or in a way that cannot be taken seriously. „Der Affe“ is usually much more derogatory, while „der Clown“ can also be used jokingly for someone who deliberately makes others laugh. Choose „Affe“ for stronger criticism and „Clown“ for a playful effect.
Bei der Feier spielte Tom den Clown, um alle zum Lachen zu bringen.
At the party, Tom played the clown to make everyone laugh.
Benimm dich nicht wie ein Affe und hör auf, die anderen zu stören.
Don't act like a fool and stop bothering the others.
