Mastering Austrian German: A Comprehensive Guide To Learning

Austrian German, or Österreichisches Deutsch, is a dialect of Standard German influenced by Southern German and Bavarian dialects. While it is not necessary to learn Austrian German to be understood in Austria, as Standard German is widely spoken and understood, there are some differences in vocabulary and pronunciation that may be useful to know. Learning Austrian German can be a fun way to connect with Austrian culture and people, and there are several resources available, including Austrian movies, TV shows, apps, and language-learning platforms.

How to learn Austrian German

Vocabulary differences

Austrian German, or Österreichisches Deutsch, is mutually intelligible with Standard German, meaning speakers of either variation can generally understand one another without much difficulty. However, there are still some vocabulary differences to be aware of.

Austrian German has several dialects, some of which are easier to understand than others. Many of the differences involve vocabulary and expressions. For example, Austrians tend to use "i" for "ich" (I), "mia" for "wir" (we), and "dei" for "sie" (they). In the past perfect tense, Austrian German uses "haben" (to have) as a helping verb with certain verbs, such as "fahren" (to drive) and "gehen" (to go), whereas Standard German uses "sein" (to be). Additionally, Austrian German uses some unique verbs, such as "schauen" (to see), "hackeln" (to work), and "hernehmen" (to take).

There are also differences in common expressions. For example, Austrians might greet you with "Grüß Gott" ("God's greeting"), especially among the older generation. A more casual greeting, suitable for younger Austrians, is "Servus" (or "Servas/Seas"). When you're hiking or outside the city, "Griaß di" (or "Griaß enk/Griaß eich" in the plural) is a good choice. Ordering food or drinks? A simple black coffee is a "Verlängerter" in Austrian German, and if you want a cappuccino, ask for a "Melange." If you're in the mood for something sweet, try the famous "Kaiserschmarren," a baked dish made from roughly cut pancake pieces, served with applesauce or roasted plums.

When it comes to vocabulary, it's worth noting that while Austrian German has its own terms, many Austrians also use standard German expressions. For example, while "Erdapfel" is the Austrian German word for "potato", more than half of the Austrian population use the standard German "Kartoffel." Similarly, while Austrians might use "Paradeiser" for "tomato", they might also use the standard German "Tomate."

If you're planning to visit Austria or interact with Austrians, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with some of these vocabulary differences and unique expressions. This will not only help you communicate more effectively but also show your interest in and appreciation for Austrian culture.

Grammar

Austrian German grammar is very similar to standard German grammar. However, there are a few differences in grammar and vocabulary that are important to note. Firstly, the verb "to be" has different conjugation patterns in Austrian German compared to Standard German. Austrian German either uses a shortened form of the Standard German verb or a completely new structure. For example, in standard German, the translation for "a little" is "ein bisschen", pronounced "ein bish-shen". In Austrian German, "bisschen" is colloquially pronounced as "bizzle".

Another difference is the use of auxiliary verbs. In spoken German, the Perfect tense is typically used to form the past, and this is the same in Austrian German. However, Austrian German often uses a different auxiliary verb for individual expressions. For example, some verbs that take "haben" (to have) in the past perfect form in German, take "sein" (to be) in Austrian German. These include "sitzen" (to sit) and "liegen" (to lie).

In addition to grammatical differences, there are also variations in vocabulary and prepositions. For example, in Germany, hospitals are called "Krankenhaus", but in Austria, they are called "Spital". Similarly, there are differences in culinary terms, such as "Aubergine" in German being "Melanzani" in Austrian German. It is also common in Austrian German to drop the final "e", and sometimes other vowels, in the plural form.

If you are interested in learning Austrian German, there are many resources available, including online courses, language learning apps, and tutors. The Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) offers free daily online courses for language levels A1 to B2, as well as information about everyday life in Austria. Additionally, programs like FluentU can help you immerse yourself in the Austrian accent by providing authentic videos such as movie trailers and news turned into personalized language learning lessons.

Regional accents and dialects

Austrian German, or Österreichisches Deutsch, is a dialect of Standard German influenced by Southern German and Bavarian dialects. While there is a ""Standard Austrian German" that refers to the official German spoken in Austria, there are many regional accents and dialects. The west speaks an entirely different German to the east, with different pronunciations and vocabulary. For example, in Vorarlberg, the westernmost state of Austria, people speak an Alemannic dialect, which is the first language of most Austrian people.

If you want to learn Austrian German, it is recommended to start with Standard German and then learn the Austrian differences through immersion. There are also Austrian German dictionaries, apps, movies, TV shows, and radio programs that can help you learn the language.

It is important to note that Austrian German is becoming extinct as it is displaced by German German. Most Austrians understand German German, and many speak it as their native language. However, there are some regional accents and dialects in Austria that may be harder to understand, such as the Viennese dialect or "Wienerish".

Overall, while there are regional accents and dialects in Austria, the differences between Austrian German and Standard German are relatively small, and learning one will likely enable you to understand and be understood in the other.

Learning through media

Learning Austrian German through media can be an effective way to immerse yourself in the language and culture. Here are some tips and resources to get you started:

Movies and TV Shows

Hollywood movies and popular TV shows are often dubbed into German and can be a great way to learn. You can also take advantage of streaming platforms to access Austrian-produced shows and movies, which will help you pick up conversational German and get used to the Austrian accent.

Music

Music can be a fun and enjoyable way to learn a language. Try listening to native Austrian bands and musicians. This will help you get accustomed to the rhythm and melody of the language. Pay attention to the lyrics and look up any unfamiliar words or phrases.

News and Current Affairs

Reading and watching the news in German is an excellent way to improve your language skills and stay informed about current affairs. Several German news outlets offer simplified articles and news programs for learners, such as "Deutsche Welle" and "ARD". These sources often provide audio versions, vocabulary lists, and transcripts, making it easier to follow along and improve your comprehension.

Apps and Online Platforms

Take advantage of language-learning apps such as Duolingo, Babbel, and Busuu. These apps offer interactive and engaging ways to learn German, allowing you to practice vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation at your own pace. Some apps, like Babbel, even offer live features where you can video call language teachers and receive real-time feedback. Additionally, check out online platforms like FluentU, which uses authentic videos (music videos, movie trailers, news) to create personalized language lessons.

Social Media and Podcasts

Engage with German-language social media accounts and podcasts to surround yourself with the language. Follow Austrian influencers or YouTubers who create content in German. This can include travel vlogs, lifestyle videos, or podcasts that interest you. By doing so, you'll improve your listening comprehension and pick up new vocabulary and slang.

Remember, learning through media is most effective when combined with other study methods, such as formal classes or language exchange programs. Enjoy your journey towards mastering Austrian German!

Speaking with native Austrians

One of the best ways to learn Austrian German is by speaking with native Austrians. However, if you are unable to travel to Austria, there are still many ways to learn the language and immerse yourself in the dialect. For example, you could listen to Austrian radio, which is a great way to instantly immerse yourself in the unique sounds and accents of the country.

Austrian German is the official language of Austria and is also spoken in some parts of Northern Italy, such as the South Tyrol, and in Bavaria, Germany. It is the only pluricentric language officially recognized by the EU. Austrian German is largely indistinguishable from the German spoken in Germany, with only minor differences in vocabulary. For example, in standard German, "this year" is translated as "dieses Jahr", but in Austrian German, it is "heuer".

Austrians tend to be more polite and indirect when speaking compared to Germans. For example, an Austrian would be more likely to say "I'm sorry. I didn't get to it yet. Something important came up" instead of the more direct German phrasing "I didn't get around to it yet". Austrians also have dozens of expressions unique to their country, such as "only a goulash tastes good reheated", which is used to remind friends that kindling a relationship with an ex might not be the best idea.

To learn Austrian German, you can also watch Austrian movies and TV shows, listen to native Austrian bands and music, and connect with native speakers online through language learning apps. Additionally, if you are able to travel to Austria, you could look into apartment-sharing opportunities with Austrian roommates or hire a native Austrian tutor.

Frequently asked questions