C2vocabulary
C2 German Vocabulary: Idioms and Subtle Register
Understand sophisticated German idioms and choose expressions appropriate to formal, neutral and informal contexts.
Explanation
Read first, then practiseIdiome und Register
C2 competence includes recognising figurative meaning and judging register. Etwas auf den Prüfstand stellen is suitable in formal debate, whereas den Nagel auf den Kopf treffen is vivid but less neutral.
Idioms should support precision rather than decorate every sentence. Consider connotation, audience and whether a literal paraphrase would be clearer.
Exercise 1
Complete questions 1–5.
1
What does “etwas auf den Prüfstand stellen” mean?
2
What does “den Nagel auf den Kopf treffen” mean?
3
What does “etwas in Abrede stellen” mean?
4
What does “sich einer Sache verschreiben” mean?
5
What does “im Umkehrschluss” mean?
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