Language Trotter

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Language courses Tired of learning in the classroom behind the desk? Tired of grey days when you know it’s time to go to your private teacher to come across any language difficulties? Or maybe you do not know what to do and where to go next summer? Here you are ...

Did you know?
Girl used to mean small boy or girl.

The word “girl” was not initially used to refer to a specific gender. It used to mean “child” or “young person” regardless of the gender.

How to be polite and show respect in German

German is one of those languages that differentiate between a formal and informal you, especially when it comes to business. Always use the formal Sie for people you've just met and only switch to the informal du after being invited to do so.
Play it safe and address a person unknown to you with Herr, Mr, or Frau, Ms, followed by their surname. The German Fräulein for an unmarried woman is totally out-of-date.

Germans strongly differentiate between work and play. A firm handshake is the traditional formal greeting. In a more informal setting, simply say Hallo and possibly pursue with cheek-kissing, which is very much en vogue amongst women with their friends, whether male or female, but not so much between male friends, who prefer a firm pat on the shoulder.

Titles are still very important, so don't be surprised to find many people in Germany calling themselves Doktor. This title is more proof of academic credentials than of medical skills.

First publication

The oldest existing book written in the German language is probably Abrogans, an 8th century manuscript dictionary of translations from Latin into Old High German. One copy has survived and is kept in the library of St. Gallen in Switzerland.

One of the oldest literary works is the Hildebrandslied, the song of Hildebrand, dating back to the 9th century. It's a heroic lay, telling the tragic encounter in a battle between a son, Hadubrand, and his unrecognised father, Hildebrand.

Another interesting fact about the English language.
Swims will be swims even when turned upside down.
Such words are usually called ambigrams.