Flamenco, a dance originating in southern Spain, was once banned primarily because it was closely associated with marginalized groups like the Romani people and the Moors, who significantly influenced its development. The authorities during Francisco Franco’s regime saw flamenco as a threat due to its roots in these oppressed communities. The dance’s lyrics often addressed … Read more
Exploring an unfamiliar city can feel both thrilling and nerve-wracking, especially when navigating an unknown language. However, equipping yourself with some handy phrases goes a long way towards smoothing the experience. For those visiting German-speaking communities, learning basic directions and vocabulary removes a barrier and makes every new corner feel a bit more welcoming. Key … Read more
Documented evidence of the bratwurst dates back to 1313 in the Franconian city of Nuremberg, Germany. The name “bratwurst” is derived from the German words “brat,” meaning without waste, and “wurst,” meaning sausage. The creation of bratwurst involved mixing scraps of meat with spices, allowing people to make use of every part of the animal, … Read more
Greetings and farewells are an important part of effective communication when visiting a new country or culture. In German, there are various phrases used for these exchanges which help demonstrate respect for local traditions. Here we will explore some common and formal greetings and goodbyes used in conversational German. Most Common Greetings in German Hallo … Read more
Understanding time expressions is an important part of learning any new language. In this guide, we will explore key vocabulary and grammar structures for discussing days, months, seasons, and other time-related concepts in German. Days of the Week Montag (Monday) Dienstag (Tuesday) Mittwoch (Wednesday) Donnerstag (Thursday) Freitag (Friday) Samstag or Sonnabend (Saturday; “Sonnabend” is used … Read more
Acquiring proficiency in a new language requires an emphasis on foundational skills. In German, correctly producing the sounds associated with each letter and combination is essential. The phonetic structures in this language can vary significantly from English and other languages. This guide provides an overview of German phonetics to establish a basic understanding. Standard Letters … Read more