The original title of a work such as a book, film, or song in the language in which it was first published. This is often given when the work has been translated into another language.
example
Der Film „Inception“ wurde in Deutschland unter seinem Originaltitel veröffentlicht.
The film “Inception” was released in Germany under its original title.
Usage tips
Compound word
This word is clearly made up of 'Original' (original) and 'Titel' (title). Its meaning is therefore directly understandable: it is the original, untranslated title of a work.
EXAMPLE
Manchmal ist der Originaltitel eines Films viel bekannter als der deutsche Titel.
Sometimes the original title of a film is much better known than the German title.
Use with 'unter'
A very common phrase is 'unter dem Originaltitel' (under the original title). It is used to say that the original title is also kept in the translated version or in the new country.
EXAMPLE
Der Film „Joker“ lief auch in Deutschland unter seinem Originaltitel.
The film “Joker” was also shown in Germany under its original title.
Typical verbs
Common verbs used with 'Originaltitel' (original title) are 'lauten' (to be worded / to read), 'beibehalten' (to keep), and 'veröffentlichen' (to publish / to release). These describe what the title is called or how it is handled.
EXAMPLE
Der Originaltitel des Buches lautet „The Lord of the Rings“.
The original title of the book is “The Lord of the Rings.”
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Originaltitel vs Titel
title
'der Titel' and 'der Originaltitel' both refer to the name of a work, for example a book, film, or song. 'Titel' is general: it can be the German, translated, or current name. 'Originaltitel' is more specific and means the original title, often in the language in which the work first appeared. The words can be confused when a work has been translated and has several names. If the language or the first publication is important, use 'Originaltitel'. Otherwise, 'Titel' is usually enough.
Originaltitel
Auf der DVD steht neben dem deutschen Namen auch der Originaltitel.
The DVD shows the original title alongside the German name.