01
der Popo
bottom
A colloquial and often childlike expression for the buttocks.
example
Das Kind ist beim Spielen auf den Popo gefallen.
The child fell on their bottom while playing.
der Popo
bottom
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Meanings
Usage tips
Register and style
'Popo' (bottom) is a colloquial word used especially in children's language or in a very informal, family context. It is inappropriate in formal or neutral situations.
EXAMPLE
„Aua, ich bin auf meinen Popo gefallen!“, rief das kleine Mädchen.
'Ouch, I fell on my bottom!' called the little girl.
Typical collocations
The word is often used in situations that describe small, harmless accidents or actions. Typical phrases are 'auf den Popo fallen' (to fall on one's bottom) or 'einen Klaps auf den Popo bekommen' (to get a smack on the bottom).
EXAMPLE
Pass auf, dass du auf der nassen Treppe nicht auf den Popo fällst.
Be careful that you don't fall on your bottom on the wet stairs.
Word structure
The word 'Popo' was formed by doubling the syllable 'Po' (butt/bottom). Such doublings (reduplications) are typical of children's language in German.
EXAMPLE
Die Mutter cremt dem Baby den Popo ein.
The mother puts cream on the baby's bottom.
Compare with
Popo vs Arsch
ass / asshole
'der Arsch' and 'der Popo' can both mean the buttocks. The most important difference is the tone. 'Arsch' is vulgar and crude. You should avoid it in polite conversations, at work, or with strangers. 'Popo' is much more harmless and often sounds childlike or very colloquial. It fits better when talking to children or when you do not want the situation to sound crude. Learners may confuse the words because both refer to the same body part. But the effect is very different: 'Popo' is gentle, while 'Arsch' is crude and can quickly sound rude.
Popo
Das Kind ist hingefallen und hält sich den Popo.
The child fell down and is holding their bottom.
Arsch
Nach der langen Radtour tut mir der Arsch weh.
After the long bike ride, my ass hurts.
In real life
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