German words that contradict themselves
Put two words together that seem like oxymorons and the result is something that makes sense. These German terms are both entertaining and paradoxical.
Handschuh
In German, you can wear shoes on your hands - but only slip-ons and not boots or lace-ups. That's because the word for "glove" - "Handschuh" - literally means "hand shoe." The term might make you rethink your footwear - and be glad that gloves don't come with heels.
Frauenmannschaft
Regrettably, the word for "team" is German is rather sexist: "Mannschaft" contains the word for "man." So when the team is exclusively made up of women, or "Frauen," the term for it appears to be an oxymoron. Pictured is Germany's national soccer "Frauenmannschaft."
Holzeisenbahn
The official word for train in German - "Eisenbahn" - is made up of the words for "iron" and "track." But what if the train, like the toy pictured here, is made of wood? Well, then it's a "wood iron track" - even though there's not a trace of metal in the cars.
Trauerfeier
Mourning and celebration sound like opposites, but in German, they are juxtaposed in the word for funeral: "Trauerfeier." While the death of a loved one certainly isn't cause to party, this term reveals a more optimistic way of viewing a funeral service: as a celebration of the deceased's life.
Fleischkäse
"Meat cheese" sounds like a convenient way to make a sandwich, like those jars of swirled peanut butter and jam. But in reality, it contains no cheese. "Fleischkäse" is a slab of processed meat that's eaten in a white roll - and is particularly beloved in Bavaria.
Hassliebe
In English, we'd say they have a "love-hate" relationship, which is a paradox used to describe a touchy situation. In German, it's turned around and called "hate love." In the picture, German actor Klaus Kinski grabs filmmaker Werner Herzog by the throat on the set of "Cobra Verde" in 1987. In reality, the two were best buddies and made numerous films together.
Wahlpflichtfach
So is an "optional mandatory school subject" required or not? Before students start getting excited about skipping class - yes, it is required. But a "Wahlpflichtfach" is a course that students can select from a group of subjects on offer. At least there is some choice involved.