What are some common false friends in German

False friends are words in two languages that look or sound similar but differ significantly in meaning. Here are some common false friends between German and English:

• Aktuell: In German, this means current or up-to-date, not actual.
• Bald: In German, it means soon, not without hair.
• Brav: This means well-behaved in German, not brave.
• Chef: In German, it refers to a boss or manager, not a chef in the culinary sense.
• Eventuell: This means possibly or potentially in German, not eventually.
• Gift: In German, this means poison, not a present.
• Handy: In German, this refers to a mobile phone, not something that is convenient or useful.
• Kaution: This means deposit or security deposit in German, not caution.
• Laden: In German, it means shop or store, not to load.
• Rat: This refers to advice or a council in German, not a rodent.
• Sensible: In German, this means sensitive, not sensible as in reasonable.
• Sympathisch: This means someone is likable or has a pleasant personality in German, not sympathetic.

Understanding these differences is crucial for effective communication and avoiding misunderstandings when learning or using the German language.