Overview of Austrian German and German German
Austrian German (österreichisches Deutsch) is the variety of the German language spoken in Austria. German German generally refers to the standard German spoken in Germany, known as Hochdeutsch or Standarddeutsch. Both countries use Standard German in official settings, education, and media, but regional varieties and local dialects play a significant role in daily communication.
Vocabulary Differences
One of the most noticeable differences between Austrian German and German German is vocabulary. Many everyday words differ between the two varieties. Here are some common examples:
- Potato: In Germany, it’s “Kartoffel”, while in Austria, it’s often “Erdapfel”.
- Tomato: Germans say “Tomate”, whereas Austrians might use “Paradeiser”.
- Whipped cream: Known as “Sahne” in Germany and “Schlagobers” in Austria.
- Apricot: “Aprikose” in Germany, but “Marille” in Austria.
These differences are not just limited to food; they extend to many aspects of daily life and can sometimes cause confusion for learners and even native speakers from different regions.
Pronunciation and Accent
Pronunciation is another key area where Austrian German and German German differ. Austrian German is generally considered softer and more melodic, with some vowel sounds pronounced differently. For example, Austrians often pronounce the “ei” diphthong more like “ai”, and the “r” at the end of words is less pronounced than in Germany.
Furthermore, Austria is home to a wide variety of regional dialects, some of which can be difficult to understand even for Germans. While Standard German is understood everywhere, you’ll notice a distinct “Austrian sound” in everyday conversations.
Grammar and Formality
In terms of grammar, Austrian and German German are largely the same, following the rules of Standard German. However, Austrians tend to use slightly different sentence structures in informal speech. One notable difference is in the use of the polite form “Sie” and the more familiar “du”. Austrians are often considered slightly more formal in their public interactions, maintaining the use of “Sie” longer than Germans might in similar situations.
Legal and Administrative Differences
Both Austria and Germany have their own legal systems, which is reflected in language use, especially in administrative and legal contexts. Certain terms, especially those related to government, law, and education, can be quite different. For example, the German “Realschule” (a type of secondary school) is called “Hauptschule” or “Neue Mittelschule” in Austria.
Influence of Culture and History
Cultural and historical influences have played a major role in shaping Austrian German. Austria’s history as the center of the Habsburg Empire brought influences from Czech, Hungarian, and other languages, leaving their mark on vocabulary and expressions. This cultural backdrop is reflected in the Austrian approach to language, which often emphasizes politeness and tradition.
Which German Should You Learn?
If you are learning German with the goal of traveling, working, or living in Austria, it makes sense to familiarize yourself with Austrian German. However, Standard German is widely understood and used in both countries, particularly in formal contexts. Most language courses, including those offered by Talkpal, teach Standard German, ensuring you can communicate effectively wherever you are in the German-speaking world. Nevertheless, learning a few Austrian words and phrases can help you integrate more smoothly and make a positive impression in Austria.
Tips for Language Learners
- Expose yourself to both varieties: Watch Austrian and German films, listen to radio stations from both countries, and try to notice the differences.
- Practice with natives: Use language exchange apps like Talkpal to connect with both Austrians and Germans. This will help you adapt to different accents and vocabularies.
- Don’t stress about the differences: Native speakers are usually very understanding and happy to explain regional words or expressions.
- Embrace regional culture: Learning about local customs and traditions will deepen your appreciation for the language and make your conversations richer.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between Austrian German and German German is an important step for any German language learner. While the two varieties share a common foundation, unique vocabulary, pronunciation, and cultural nuances set them apart. By becoming familiar with these distinctions, you can navigate the German-speaking world with greater confidence and cultural awareness. For more resources and practical advice on learning German, be sure to explore the Talkpal blog and connect with learners from Austria, Germany, and beyond.
