Ten English words only Germans use

Most English-speakers will know exactly what words like bodybag, peeling and timer mean. But in German these familiar words are used to mean something completely different. How many of the English words in our Local List can you guess the meaning of?

Published: 7 May 2014 13:42 CEST

This "old timer" is a little different from those you might hear about in German. Photo: DPA

It is a much-talked-about fact about the German language that it adopts English words all the time, but they often take on new meanings which can sound bizarre to native English speakers.

So in a follow-up to our collection last year of the finest English words that only Germans use, this week's Local List looks at how in German you can be offered a small African country in a restaurant, go for a drive in an old-timer, and even wear a body bag around your waist.

Just remember to wear your neckholder.

CLICK HERE to see The Local List

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