little word
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to have a say
To have the right or opportunity to help decide something or express one's opinion.
Bei der Planung des Familienurlaubs wollen die Kinder auch ein Wörtchen mitreden.
When planning the family vacation, the children also want to have a say.
'Wörtchen' (little word) is the diminutive form of 'das Wort' (the word). The ending '-chen' turns the neuter 'Wort' into a 'small word,' which often has an affectionate or insignificant connotation.
Kann ich mal ein kurzes Wörtchen mit dir reden?
Can I have a quick word with you?
The expression 'ein Wörtchen mitreden' (to have a say) is a fixed expression. The verb 'mitzureden' (to have a say / to join in the discussion) is the key part here and cannot simply be replaced.
In dieser Firma dürfen alle Mitarbeiter ein Wörtchen mitreden.
In this company, all employees are allowed to have a say.
In its general meaning, 'Wörtchen' (little word) is often combined with adjectives that describe the character of the 'small word,' for example 'ein liebes Wörtchen' (a kind little word), 'ein ernstes Wörtchen' (a serious word), or 'ein tröstendes Wörtchen' (a comforting word).
Der Chef möchte mit dir unter vier Augen ein ernstes Wörtchen reden.
The boss would like to have a serious word with you in private.
word
'das Wort' and 'das Wörtchen' are closely related because 'Wörtchen' is the diminutive form of 'Wort'. 'Wort' is neutral and always fits when you are talking about a linguistic unit. 'Wörtchen' is used more for a short, small, or casual word, and it often sounds a bit more personal or colloquial. The fixed expression 'ein Wörtchen mitzureden haben' is also important: it is not about a small word, but about being able to have a say in a decision. The words can be confusing because 'Wörtchen' formally looks like a little 'Wort', but it does not simply mean the same thing in every context.
Bei dieser Entscheidung hat auch die Nachbarin ein Wörtchen mitzureden.
The neighbor also has a say in this decision.
Er schreibt das neue Wort dreimal in sein Heft.
He writes the new word in his notebook three times.