False friendEverydayGerman

Rat

Meaning: Actually means 'advice' or 'counsel'. A rat (the rodent) is eine Ratte.

Origin: From Old High German rāt, 'counsel' — unrelated to the English rodent; cf. Rathaus, 'town hall'.

More German false friends

  • See Actually means 'lake' (der See) or 'sea' (die See). To see is sehen.
  • Gift Actually means 'poison'. A present is ein Geschenk.
  • Handy Actually means 'a mobile phone'. For handy/useful, say praktisch.
  • Fast Actually means 'almost'. For fast/quick, say schnell.
  • Rock Actually means 'skirt'. A rock (stone) is ein Stein.
  • Brief Actually means 'letter' (the kind you post). For brief (short), say kurz.

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