rascal
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rascal
A person who is inclined to pranks and jokes in a likable and playful way; a rogue. The expression is often affectionate and slightly old-fashioned.
Mit einem Augenzwinkern gab er zu, den Kuchen heimlich gegessen zu haben – ein echter Schelm!
With a wink, he admitted that he had secretly eaten the cake — a real rascal!
The word 'Schelm' (rascal) is slightly old-fashioned and belongs more to written language or an elevated, often playful style of expression. It is rarely used in normal everyday speech.
In dem alten Roman wird der Held als liebenswerter Schelm beschrieben.
In the old novel, the hero is described as a lovable rascal.
Although a 'Schelm' (rascal) plays pranks, the word is almost always meant positively or affectionately. It describes a person whose humor and playfulness are perceived as likable.
„Wer hat das letzte Stück Schokolade gegessen?“, fragte sie und blickte ihren Sohn an. „Du kleiner Schelm!“
'Who ate the last piece of chocolate?' she asked, looking at her son. 'You little rascal!'
The adjective 'schelmisch' (mischievous) is very often used to describe a smile, a look, or a wink. This often shows a person's intention to make a little joke.
Er sah mich mit einem schelmischen Lächeln an und ich wusste sofort, dass er etwas vorhatte.
He looked at me with a mischievous smile, and I knew immediately that he was up to something.
hussy / bait
'das Luder' and 'der Schelm' can both be used affectionately or jokingly for a cheeky, clever person. 'Schelm' sounds more friendly, playful, and a little old-fashioned. It fits well when someone plays a small joke or prank. 'Luder' is more colloquial and, depending on the tone, can also sound cheeky, crafty, or somewhat reproachful. Important: 'Luder' also has other, clearly derogatory meanings. In this respect, 'Schelm' is usually more harmless and friendlier.
Yara lacht, weil der kleine Schelm ihr heimlich eine Blume in die Tasche steckt.
Yara laughs because the little rascal secretly puts a flower in her bag.
Im Park nennt Anna ihren Hund ein Luder, weil er schon wieder ihr Brot stiehlt.
In the park, Anna calls her dog a little rascal because he is stealing her bread again.