What are some common false friends in German

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Common false friends in German are words that look or sound similar to English words but have different meanings, which can cause confusion for learners. Here are some examples:

• “Gift” in German means “poison,” not a present.
• “Chef” means “boss” or “manager,” not a cook.
• “Rat” means “advice,” not a rodent.
• “Bald” means “soon,” not lacking hair.
• “Brav” means “well-behaved” or “good,” not brave.
• “Sensible” means “sensitive,” not reasonable.
• “Liberal” in German often means “free-market oriented,” not necessarily progressive or open-minded as in English.
• “Katalog” means “catalog,” but “cata-logue” may mislead English speakers about usage.
• “Bekommen” means “to receive” or “get,” not to become.
• “Warnen” means “to warn,” but “warn” in English can also mean to caution.

Would more examples or explanations be helpful?

References

• 1. Presentation Genes and Languages 1

• What Goes Up Need Not Come Down the Same: Exploring the Positive Impacts of Study Abroad on 21st Century Students

• Thedocracy: Christian Universities and Muslim Students.