der Papagei
parrot
An often brightly colored bird from tropical regions, known for its ability to imitate sounds and human speech.
EXAMPLE
Der Papagei im Zoo konnte mehrere Sätze sprechen.
The parrot at the zoo could say several sentences.
der Papagei
parrot
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Meanings
der Papagei
parrot
A person who mindlessly repeats something without understanding it or having an opinion of their own.
EXAMPLE
Sei doch kein Papagei und wiederhole nicht alles, was die anderen sagen.
Don't be such a parrot and repeat everything the others say.
Usage tips
Context clue
The figurative meaning 'Person, die alles nachspricht' (person who repeats everything) is often used as a reproach or criticism. You can recognize it when the topic is opinions and communication, not a real bird.
EXAMPLE
Denk doch mal selbst nach und sei nicht so ein Papagei!
Think for yourself for once and don't be such a parrot!
Typical collocations
In the figurative meaning, 'Papagei' (parrot) is often combined with verbs like 'nachplappern' (to parrot/repeat mindlessly) or 'gedankenlos wiederholen' (to repeat mindlessly). These verbs reinforce the idea of meaningless repetition.
EXAMPLE
Er plappert nur nach, was er in den Nachrichten hört, wie ein Papagei.
He just parrots what he hears on the news, like a parrot.
Typical ability
When referring to the bird, its ability to speak is often discussed. Typical verbs in this context are 'sprechen' (to speak), 'nachahmen' (to imitate), or 'wiederholen' (to repeat).
EXAMPLE
Ihr Papagei kann seinen eigenen Namen wiederholen.
Her parrot can repeat its own name.
In real life
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