Learning a new language also means getting acquainted with its slang. Slang in German, as in any language, can vary greatly depending on regional dialects and the social context. Here are some common German slang words and phrases that you might encounter in daily conversations with native speakers.

Alter
“Alter” is a colloquial term for “dude” or “mate.” It’s a very casual word, often used among friends or young people. The word literally means “old one,” but it’s not about age here.

Hast du das neue Spiel schon gesehen, Alter?

Abgefahren
Used to describe something cool or awesome, “abgefahren” is akin to saying “radical” or “wicked” in English. The term can apply to anything from events to objects.

Die Party gestern war wirklich abgefahren!

Knorke
Another word for something that’s excellent or great. “Knorke” is a bit of an old-fashioned term but cool to use in a quirky or ironic sense.

Der Film war echt knorke, lass uns den nochmal gucken.

Krass
This word expresses something that is intense or extreme. It can be used both positively and negatively.

Das ist echt krass, wie schnell du Deutsch lernst!

Null Bock
If you have “null Bock” on something, it means you have absolutely no desire or interest in doing it.

Ich habe null Bock auf die Hausaufgaben.

Labern
Means “to babble” or “to talk nonsense.” It’s often used when someone is speaking a lot without saying anything substantial.

Hör auf zu labern und komm zum Punkt!

Geil
A versatile slang term in German, “geil” originally means “horny,” but in slang, it’s often used to express that something is cool or awesome.

Dein neues Auto ist echt geil!

Schickimicki
This term describes people who are dandified or flashy in a somewhat derogatory manner. It conveys an air of pretentious affluence.

Die neue Bar ist mir zu Schickimicki.

Tussi
Refers to a girl or woman who is particularly concerned with her looks, often carrying a connotation of being shallow.

Glaubst du wirklich, diese Tussi interessiert sich für Fußball?

verpeilt
Used to describe someone who is confused, disorganized, or scatterbrained, often because they’re not paying attention.

Ich war heute Morgen total verpeilt und habe den Bus verpasst.

Pennen
Slang for “sleeping” or “crashing” somewhere. It’s used in a very casual context.

Ich war so müde, dass ich bei Paul einfach gepennt habe.

Incorporating these slang words and phrases into your conversations can give you a more nuanced understanding of German language and culture, as well as help you sound more like a native speaker. Remember to listen to how they are used in context so you can use them appropriately. Happy learning!