01
das Schimpfwort
swear word
An insulting or vulgar word used to express anger, contempt, or frustration, or to insult someone.
example
Er rief dem anderen Fahrer ein Schimpfwort hinterher.
He shouted a swear word after the other driver.
das Schimpfwort
swear word
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
'Schimpfwort' (swear word) is a compound noun made from the verb 'schimpfen' (to scold, to insult someone) and 'das Wort' (the word). So it is literally a word used for scolding or insulting.
EXAMPLE
Kinder lernen oft schon früh, was Schimpfwörter sind.
Children often learn early on what swear words are.
Typical verbs
Common verbs used with 'Schimpfwort' (swear word) are 'benutzen' (to use), 'verwenden' (to use), or 'rufen' (to shout).
EXAMPLE
Es ist unhöflich, in einem Gespräch Schimpfwörter zu benutzen.
It is impolite to use swear words in a conversation.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'mit Schimpfwörtern um sich werfen' means that someone uses a lot of words, often insulting ones.
EXAMPLE
Er war so wütend, dass er nur noch mit Schimpfwörtern um sich warf.
He was so angry that he was just throwing swear words around.
Compare with
Schimpfwort vs Beleidigung
insult
'die Beleidigung' and 'das Schimpfwort' are closely related because swear words are often used to insult someone. But the difference is important: 'Schimpfwort' refers to the individual word itself, for example a crude or vulgar word. 'Beleidigung' refers to the whole hurtful statement or action. An insult can consist of a swear word, but it does not have to. It can also be a sentence, mockery, or a gesture. Learners can easily confuse the words because both occur when insulting someone. Remember: the 'Schimpfwort' is the word; the 'Beleidigung' is the hurtful effect or action.
Schimpfwort
In der Schule benutzt sie heute keine Schimpfwörter mehr.
At school, she no longer uses swear words these days.
Beleidigung
Der Gast schrieb in seiner E-Mail eine Beleidigung an den Mitarbeiter.
The guest wrote an insult directed at the employee in his email.
In real life
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