der Dummkopf
fool
A derogatory term for a person who is considered stupid, unwise, or foolish.
EXAMPLE
Nur ein Dummkopf würde bei diesem Wetter ohne Jacke nach draußen gehen.
Only a fool would go outside without a jacket in this weather.
der Dummkopf
fool
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is made up of the adjective 'dumm' (stupid) and the noun 'Kopf' (head). So it literally describes a person with a 'dummen Kopf' (stupid head).
EXAMPLE
Er fühlt sich wie ein Dummkopf, weil er die einfache Frage nicht beantworten konnte.
He feels like a fool because he couldn't answer the simple question.
Register and style
'Dummkopf' (fool) is a strong insult. You should use this word with great caution, as it can be felt to be very hurtful and derogatory.
EXAMPLE
Schrei mich nicht an und nenn mich nicht Dummkopf!
Don't yell at me and don't call me a fool!
Typical use
You can directly call someone a 'Dummkopf' (fool), e.g. 'Du bist ein Dummkopf!' (You are a fool!), or comment on a person's action this way, e.g. 'Das macht nur ein Dummkopf.' (Only a fool would do that.).
EXAMPLE
Sei kein Dummkopf und denk nach, bevor du handelst.
Don't be a fool, and think before you act.
Compare with
Dummkopf vs Idiot
idiot
Idiot and Dummkopf can both be used disparagingly for a person considered stupid or foolish. Idiot usually sounds harsher and more directly aimed at the person, while Dummkopf is often milder or even playful. For a lighter reaction to an unwise mistake, Dummkopf is therefore more appropriate.
Dummkopf
Du Dummkopf, du hast die wichtige Datei einfach gelöscht.
You fool, you just deleted the important file.
Idiot
Du Idiot, du hast die wichtige Datei einfach gelöscht.
You idiot, you just deleted the important file.
In real life
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