Low German (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

"Low German" is primarily used as a proper noun.

Phonetic Transcription

/loʊ ˈdʒɜr.mən/

Meaning and Usage

"Low German" refers to a group of dialects of the German language spoken mainly in northern Germany and the northeastern Netherlands. It is distinct from Standard German due to its unique linguistic features and regional variations. This language is also known as "Plattdeutsch" or "Platt." While it is not as widely spoken as Standard German, Low German holds cultural and historical significance in the regions where it is used.

Frequency of Use

"Low German" is less frequently used in everyday speech compared to Standard German. Its usage is predominantly in specific regions, cultural discussions, or historical contexts.

Example Sentences

1. Many people in northern Germany still speak Low German at home.
2. Многие люди на севере Германии все еще говорят на низком немецком языке дома.
3. Low German has a rich folklore tradition that has been passed down through generations.
4. Низкий немецкий язык имеет богатую традицию фольклора, которая передавалась из поколения в поколение.
5. The government has initiated programs to promote the use of Low German in schools.
6. Правительство инициировало программы по продвижению использования низкого немецкого языка в школах.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "Low German" itself is not prominently featured in idiomatic expressions, there are several idioms pertaining to regional German dialects and cultural references.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. To speak in Low German - To express ideas in a way that is straightforward and plain.

2. Translation: Говорить на низком немецком, чтобы выразить идеи прямо и просто.

3. Plattdeutsch wit - Refers to the cleverness or humor found in Low German cultures.

4. Translation: Плоский немецкий юмор - это ум cleverness или юмор, найденный в низкокачественной немецкой культуре.

5. To grow up with Low German - To be raised or educated primarily in a Low German-speaking environment.

6. Translation: Выросли с низким немецким языком - быть воспитанным или обученным в основном в окружении, говорящем на низком немецком языке.

7. Low German roots - To emphasize the cultural or historical connections to the Low German language and traditions.

8. Translation: Низкий немецкий корень - подчеркивать культурные или исторические связи с низким немецким языком и традициями.

Etymology

The term "Low German" originated from the geographic distinction between "Low" and "High" German, where "Low" refers to the low-lying northern regions of Germany, as opposed to "High" German, which refers to the high-altitude southern regions. The word "German" itself traces back to the Latin "Germanus," used by the Romans to describe the various tribes living in what is now Germany.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Plattdeutsch
• Niederdeutsch (German for Low German)

Antonyms

• High German (Hochdeutsch)
• Standard German (Hochdeutsch)