der Wicht
goblin
A small, often goblin-like mythical creature or dwarf, sometimes described as malicious or mischievous.
EXAMPLE
In den alten Märchen treiben Wichte im Wald ihr Unwesen.
In the old fairy tales, goblins cause mischief in the forest.
der Wicht
goblin / wretch
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Meanings
der Wicht
wretch
A derogatory term for an insignificant, small, or contemptible person.
EXAMPLE
Was will dieser kleine Wicht denn von mir?
What does this little wretch want from me?
Usage tips
Context clue
You can easily recognize the meaning from context. If the text is about fairy tales, legends, or mythical creatures, it refers to the mythical creature. If the word refers to a real person in an argument or a negative description, it is an insult.
EXAMPLE
Im Märchen hilft ein kleiner Wicht dem Prinzen.
In the fairy tale, a little goblin helps the prince.
Strongly derogatory
When 'Wicht' (wretch) is used for a person, it is a strong insult. It expresses that you consider the person small, insignificant, and contemptible.
EXAMPLE
Er nannte seinen Konkurrenten einen arroganten Wicht.
He called his competitor an arrogant wretch.
Typical adjectives
As an insult, 'Wicht' (wretch) is often combined with adjectives like 'klein' (small), 'elend' (wretched), or 'arm' (poor/pitiful) to intensify the derogatory meaning.
EXAMPLE
Was will dieser kleine Wicht schon ausrichten?
What could this little wretch possibly achieve?
Compare with
Wicht vs Kerlchen
little guy
Kerlchen and Wicht can both refer to a man who seems insignificant. Kerlchen often sounds milder and can express weakness or pity. Wicht is clearly derogatory and can also show contempt. Use Kerlchen for someone who seems pitiable and Wicht for someone who is despised.
Wicht
Nach seinem gemeinen Verhalten nannte er den neuen Kollegen einen verachtenswerten Wicht.
After his mean behavior, he called the new colleague a contemptible wretch.
Kerlchen
Der schüchterne neue Kollege wirkte auf ihn wie ein hilfloses Kerlchen.
The shy new colleague seemed like a helpless little guy to him.
In real life
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