Bedeutung
Desperate times call for desperate measures; one accepts anything out of need.
Kultureller Hintergrund
The proverb is very well-known and used across all age groups. It is a staple of German folk wisdom. Austrians use this proverb just as frequently as Germans, often with a slightly more cynical tone. Swiss German speakers also use this, though they might sometimes use local dialect variations. The concept of the devil as a character in proverbs is common in many Germanic cultures, reflecting a shared medieval history.
Use it to justify
This proverb is a great way to justify a decision that you feel embarrassed about.
Don't over-use
It's a proverb, so don't use it in every sentence. It loses its impact if used too often.
Bedeutung
Desperate times call for desperate measures; one accepts anything out of need.
Use it to justify
This proverb is a great way to justify a decision that you feel embarrassed about.
Don't over-use
It's a proverb, so don't use it in every sentence. It loses its impact if used too often.
It's very common
You will hear this in movies, TV shows, and casual conversations. It's a very 'German' way to look at life.
Teste dich selbst
Fill in the missing word.
In der Not frisst der Teufel ________.
The proverb uses 'Fliegen' (flies) as the object.
Which situation is appropriate for this proverb?
When should you use 'In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen'?
The proverb is about compromising in a difficult situation.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'I hate this apartment, but I have no money.' B: '________.'
This acknowledges the difficult situation and the need to compromise.
Match the situation to the proverb.
You have to take a job you don't like because you need money.
This fits the 'desperate times' theme.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Aufgabensammlung
4 AufgabenIn der Not frisst der Teufel ________.
The proverb uses 'Fliegen' (flies) as the object.
When should you use 'In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen'?
The proverb is about compromising in a difficult situation.
A: 'I hate this apartment, but I have no money.' B: '________.'
This acknowledges the difficult situation and the need to compromise.
You have to take a job you don't like because you need money.
This fits the 'desperate times' theme.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Häufig gestellte Fragen
12 FragenNo, it's not rude. It's a common proverb.
Only if you have a very informal relationship with your boss.
Because flies are disgusting and no one wants to eat them. It highlights the desperation.
It is 'fressen' because it refers to the devil.
No, that is grammatically incorrect for this proverb.
Yes, 'Desperate times call for desperate measures'.
Yes, it is used in all German-speaking countries.
It sounds like 'Toy-fel'.
No, it's too dramatic for minor problems.
It is neutral/consultative, not formal.
You don't have to use it, but you should understand it.
It's a short, punchy sentence.
Verwandte Redewendungen
Not macht erfinderisch
similarNeed makes one inventive.
Lieber den Spatz in der Hand
similarBetter a sparrow in the hand.
Augen zu und durch
similarClose your eyes and go through.
Man muss nehmen, was man kriegt
similarYou have to take what you get.
