Three language books by Wolf Marbach

German. More than just words.

What does an expression really mean? When does it fit? And which words bring back the past? Three German-language books explore idioms, proverbs and the words of earlier generations.

  • clear meaning instead of literal confusion
  • typical situations and accessible examples
  • humorous illustrations that support memory

The purchase buttons lead to Amazon.de. Free sample pages are available below.

ImageThe literal scene makes the German expression visible.
MeaningA direct explanation states what the expression actually means.
UsageExamples explain tone, situation and suitable wording.

For learners of German and language enthusiasts

Knowing the words is not always enough.

Many fixed expressions mean something different from the individual words they contain. A literal translation can therefore create a false meaning or hide the speaker’s tone.

Proverbs express experiences, opinions and general rules in a short form. The books clearly separate the literal image, the intended message and the typical use.

Book cover: Redewendungen in Deutschland – kompakt erklärt

Book 1 · German idioms

Redewendungen in Deutschland – kompakt erklärt

The book explains the actual meaning, tone and typical situations. A neutral German alternative also shows how to express the same message without using an idiom.

  • meaning clearly explained in German
  • tone and effect placed in context
  • typical usage shown
  • neutral German wording provided

Paperback · Link to Amazon.de

Book cover: Sprichwörter in Deutschland – kompakt erklärt

Book 2 · German proverbs

Sprichwörter in Deutschland – kompakt erklärt

The book explains the central message, effect and typical use. Notes on the literal meaning show why a direct translation can easily cause misunderstanding.

  • central message stated clearly
  • effect and attitude explained
  • typical situations described
  • literal meaning clearly separated

Paperback · Link to Amazon.de

Cover: Mach keine Fisimatenten! – Wolf Marbach

The third book

Mach keine Fisimatenten!

Fisimatenten, Kokolores, Lulatsch or Muckefuck: discover words that generations grew up with, and the small worlds behind them. The book is in German.

The book is in German · External links to Amazon.de

Free preview

Look inside before you decide.

Each book page contains five fully explained examples and five further illustrations to think about.

Figurative German, clearly explained

Which book is right for you?

Idioms help you understand everyday conversations. Proverbs introduce common statements, judgements and experiences.