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A2 noun 10 min de lecture

der Teufel

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces der Teufel en 30 secondes
Explication der Teufel in your Level:
At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'der Teufel' means 'the devil'. It is a masculine noun ('der'). You might see it in very simple fairy tales or hear it in the common exclamation 'Pfui Teufel!' when someone sees something gross. At this stage, just focus on the fact that it is the opposite of 'Gott' (God) and that the plural is also 'Teufel'. You don't need to worry about complex idioms yet. Just remember the basic word and its gender. For example: 'Der Teufel ist rot' (The devil is red). It is a good word to practice your 'eu' pronunciation, which sounds like the 'oy' in 'boy'.
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At A2, you start using 'der Teufel' in common phrases and noticing how it changes in different cases. You should learn 'Was zum Teufel?' (What the hell?) as a way to express surprise. You will also encounter it in descriptions of people, like 'ein armer Teufel' (a poor soul/guy). You should be able to recognize the word in the context of folklore and stories. Understanding that 'der Teufel' is a masculine noun that doesn't change its ending in the accusative ('den Teufel') is important for your basic grammar skills. You might also learn the word 'Teufelskreis' (vicious circle) when talking about problems that are hard to solve.
By B1, you should be comfortable with the most common idioms involving the devil. You should know 'den Teufel an die Wand malen' (to be pessimistic) and understand that it's a very common way to tell someone not to be so negative. You will also see 'Teufel' used as an intensifier in adjectives like 'teuflisch'. In B1, you are expected to understand more complex sentences where 'der Teufel' might be a metaphor for a difficult situation. You might read short news articles where 'Teufelskreis' is used to describe economic or social issues. You should also know the phrase 'Wenn man vom Teufel spricht...' for when someone you were just talking about appears.
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At the B2 level, you should understand the cultural and literary significance of 'der Teufel'. This includes knowing about 'Faust' and the idea of a 'Pakt mit dem Teufel'. You should be able to use the word in more nuanced ways, such as 'Ich werde den Teufel tun!' to express a strong refusal. Your vocabulary should expand to include related words like 'Teufelszeug' (devilish stuff/nonsense) or 'teuflisch' as an adverb for emphasis (e.g., 'teuflisch schwer' - devilishly difficult). You should also be able to distinguish between 'der Teufel', 'Satan', and 'Dämon' and use them in the correct social and linguistic registers.
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At C1, you use 'der Teufel' and its derivatives with native-like precision. You understand the historical etymology and how the word has shaped German proverbs. You can analyze literary texts where the devil is a central figure and discuss the symbolism involved. You are familiar with more obscure idioms like 'In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen' (Beggars can't be choosers) and can use them appropriately in conversation to add flavor to your speech. You understand the subtle difference between using 'Teufel' as a joke versus using it as a serious insult or a philosophical concept. Your grasp of the genitive 'des Teufels' in fixed expressions is also solid.
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At the C2 level, 'der Teufel' is a tool for stylistic mastery. You can play with the word in creative writing, using its various forms and connotations to evoke specific moods. You understand the deepest cultural nuances, such as the 'Krampus' tradition or the specific role of the devil in different German dialects. You can engage in complex debates about theology, literature, or philosophy where 'der Teufel' is a key concept. You are also aware of how the word's usage has evolved over centuries, from Old High German to modern slang. You can spot puns and wordplay involving 'Teufel' in sophisticated media and literature effortlessly.
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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

der Teufel en 30 secondes

  • Der Teufel is a masculine noun meaning 'the devil', used both for religious figures and as a common metaphor for trouble or intensity.
  • It is a central part of many German idioms, such as 'den Teufel an die Wand malen' (to be pessimistic) or 'Teufelskreis' (vicious circle).
  • In daily life, it serves as an intensifier in exclamations like 'Was zum Teufel?' or adjectives like 'teuflisch', meaning devilishly or extremely.
  • Grammatically, it is a regular masculine noun, but it appears in many fixed phrases that require specific cases like the dative 'zum Teufel'.

The German noun der Teufel is much more than just a religious figure; it is a linguistic powerhouse embedded deeply in the German psyche, culture, and daily conversation. At its most basic level, it translates to 'the devil' or 'Satan,' representing the personification of evil in Christian and secular traditions. However, for a learner of German, the literal meaning is often secondary to its massive array of metaphorical and idiomatic uses. In German culture, the devil is a figure of mischief, intensity, and impossibility. When you encounter this word, you are often dealing with something extreme—whether that is extreme luck, extreme anger, or an extremely difficult situation.

The Theological Core
In a religious context, 'der Teufel' is the adversary of God. You will find this usage in historical texts, the Bible, and classical literature like Goethe's 'Faust,' where the devil Mephistopheles makes a wager for a man's soul. In these contexts, the word carries weight, darkness, and a sense of existential threat.

Glaubst du an den Teufel? (Do you believe in the devil?)

The Intensifier
In colloquial German, 'Teufel' acts as a superlative or an intensifier. Phrases like 'teuflisch gut' (devilishly good) or 'ein Teufelskerl' (a devil of a fellow/a daredevil) show that the word can actually have a positive, albeit rebellious, connotation. It describes someone who is exceptionally skilled, brave, or cunning.

Furthermore, the word is frequently used to express frustration or surprise. 'Was zum Teufel...?' is the direct equivalent of 'What the hell...?' or 'What on earth...?' in English. It is considered slightly vulgar but is very common in informal speech. You will also see it in descriptions of nature or complex systems, such as 'der Teufelskreis' (the vicious circle), illustrating how a problem feeds into itself with no escape. Understanding 'der Teufel' means understanding the German flair for dramatic emphasis and their historical relationship with folklore where the devil was a common character in fairy tales and local legends.

Das ist ein echter Teufelskreis. (That is a real vicious circle.)

Finally, the word is used to describe someone who is very poor or unfortunate, known as an 'armer Teufel' (poor devil). This empathetic use shows the word's versatility—it can evoke fear, admiration, frustration, or pity depending entirely on the adjectives surrounding it. As you advance from A2 to higher levels, you will find that 'Teufel' is less about religion and more about the texture of the German language's emotional expression.

Using der Teufel correctly requires a firm grasp of German noun declension. Since it is a masculine noun, it follows the standard pattern: 'der Teufel' (nominative), 'den Teufel' (accusative), 'dem Teufel' (dative), and 'des Teufels' (genitive). Because it is a personified noun, it often appears as the subject of actions in idioms or the object of prepositions.

The Nominative Case
When the devil is the one doing something, we use 'der Teufel'. This is common in proverbs like 'Der Teufel steckt im Detail' (The devil is in the details), meaning that small things can cause big problems.

Der Teufel hat seine Hand im Spiel. (The devil has his hand in the game/is involved.)

The Accusative Case
Use 'den Teufel' when the word is the direct object. A very common expression is 'den Teufel an die Wand malen' (to paint the devil on the wall), which means to be overly pessimistic or to talk about a disaster as if it's definitely going to happen.

In the Dative case, you will most frequently hear 'dem Teufel'. For example, if you are giving something to the devil or if you use the preposition 'mit' (with). 'Mit dem Teufel im Bunde sein' means to be in league with the devil. Additionally, the contraction 'zum' (zu + dem) is used in the exclamation 'Zum Teufel!', which is used when someone is angry or fed up. It functions like 'To hell with it!' or 'Damn it!'.

Geh doch zum Teufel! (Go to hell! / Get lost!)

The Genitive case 'des Teufels' is often found in older literature or very specific expressions. 'Ein Werk des Teufels' (a work of the devil) describes something particularly evil or suspiciously complex. In modern daily speech, you might hear 'des Teufels' used to describe someone who has gone mad: 'Er ist des Teufels!' (He is possessed/insane!). When constructing your own sentences, remember that 'Teufel' can be used as a metaphor for any source of trouble. If a machine isn't working, you might say 'Da ist der Teufel drin' (The devil is in there), implying a persistent, hidden fault.

You will encounter der Teufel in a variety of real-world contexts, ranging from high literature to the gritty slang of the street. Germany has a rich tradition of folklore where the devil is a trickster figure, and this history persists in modern media and conversation. If you visit Germany, you might see 'Teufelsmauer' (Devil's Wall) or 'Teufelsschlucht' (Devil's Gorge) on hiking signs, as many dramatic natural formations are named after him.

In Literature and Media
The most famous appearance is in Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's 'Faust'. Here, the devil is Mephistopheles. You will hear references to 'ein faustischer Pakt' (a Faustian bargain) in political or social discussions, referring to a deal where someone sacrifices their values for power.

In der Literatur ist der Teufel oft eine komplexe Figur. (In literature, the devil is often a complex figure.)

In Daily Frustration
In the workplace or at home, when things go wrong repeatedly, Germans use the devil to express their annoyance. If a computer crashes for the third time, a German might shout, 'Verdammt noch mal, was ist das für ein Teufelszeug!' (Damn it, what kind of devil's stuff/junk is this!).

You will also hear it in news reports or documentaries discussing social issues. 'Teufelskreis' is a favorite term for journalists describing economic recessions or cycles of poverty. For example, 'Der Teufelskreis aus Arbeitslosigkeit und Armut' (The vicious circle of unemployment and poverty). In films and TV shows, 'der Teufel' is used both in horror genres and in comedies, where a character might be called a 'Teufelsbraten' (a little devil/rascal), usually referring to a mischievous child.

Komm her, du kleiner Teufelsbraten! (Come here, you little rascal!)

Finally, music—especially Rock and Metal—uses the imagery of the devil extensively. But even in traditional Schlager music or folk songs, the devil appears as a symbol of temptation. If you are listening to a German podcast and the speaker says 'Pfui Teufel!', they are expressing strong disgust or revulsion toward something, similar to saying 'Yuck!' or 'That's disgusting!'. Whether in the heights of art or the depths of a bad day, 'der Teufel' is everywhere.

Learning der Teufel involves navigating several linguistic traps. One of the most common mistakes for English speakers is assuming the word is used exactly like 'hell' in English. While there is overlap, the grammar and specific idioms differ significantly.

Confusion with 'Hölle'
In English, we say 'What the hell?'. In German, you can say 'Was zur Hölle?' or 'Was zum Teufel?'. Beginners often mix the genders, saying 'Was zum Hölle' (wrong, Hölle is feminine) or 'Was zur Teufel' (wrong, Teufel is masculine). Remember: 'Zum Teufel' but 'Zur Hölle'.

Falsch: Was zur Teufel? Richtig: Was zum Teufel?

The 'N-Declension' Trap
Many masculine nouns that refer to living beings (like 'der Junge' or 'der Student') add an -en in the accusative and dative cases. Learners often assume 'Teufel' does this too, saying 'Ich sehe den Teufelen'. This is incorrect. 'Teufel' is a regular masculine noun and does not take an -en ending in the singular accusative or dative.

Another mistake is the literal translation of English idioms. For instance, 'Speak of the devil' is translated in German as 'Wenn man vom Teufel spricht... (kommt er gelaufen)'. Beginners often forget the 'vom' (von + dem) and just say 'Spreche von Teufel', which sounds broken. Also, be careful with the word 'teuflisch'. While 'devilish' in English can sometimes mean 'naughty' or 'sexy', in German, 'teuflisch' is often more intense and can imply something truly wicked or dangerously clever.

Wenn man vom Teufel spricht... (Speak of the devil...)

Lastly, learners often misuse 'den Teufel tun'. In English, you might say 'I would never do that'. In German, you can say 'Ich werde den Teufel tun!', which literally means 'I will do the devil!'. To an English speaker, this sounds like you *will* do it, but in German, it means 'I will certainly NOT do that!'. Misunderstanding this negation-by-idiom can lead to the exact opposite of the intended meaning in a conversation.

While der Teufel is the most common term, German has several synonyms and related words that carry different shades of meaning, registers, and cultural baggage. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are being religious, poetic, or just calling someone a name.

Satan
This is the direct biblical name. It sounds more formal and more 'evil' than 'Teufel'. While you might call a naughty child a 'Teufelchen', you would never call them a 'Satan' unless you were being extremely serious or dramatic.

Er ist ein wahrer Satan. (He is a true Satan/pure evil.)

Beelzebub
An archaic, biblical term often used for dramatic or humorous effect. You might hear the phrase 'den Teufel mit dem Beelzebub austreiben', which means to try to get rid of one evil by using another, usually making things worse.

If you want to describe a person who is bad, you might use 'der Bösewicht' (villain) or 'der Übeltäter' (wrongdoer). These are more secular and grounded in reality. For a child who is acting like a 'little devil', 'Bengel' or 'Lausbub' are great alternatives that sound more affectionate and less 'hellish'. On the other hand, if you are talking about the 'devil' as a source of bad luck, you might use 'der Pechvogel' (unlucky person/jinx).

Du kleiner Bengel! (You little rascal!)

In summary, 'der Teufel' is the 'all-rounder'. Use 'Satan' for serious evil, 'Dämon' for supernatural spirits, 'Teufelsbraten' for naughty kids, and 'der Widersacher' (the adversary) if you want to sound sophisticated or literary. Each word shifts the focus from the supernatural to the behavioral, allowing you to fine-tune your German expression.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The 'd' to 't' shift (from Latin 'diabolus' to German 'Teufel') is a classic example of the High German Consonant Shift, which is why the English word starts with 'D' (Devil) and the German one with 'T'.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈtɔʏfəl/
US /ˈtɔɪfəl/
The stress is on the first syllable: TEU-fel.
Rime avec
Zweifel (doubt) Eifel (a region in Germany) Schwefel (sulfur) Schleifel (grinder) Keifel (quarrel - rare) Geifel (drool - dialectal) Beifel Reifel
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'eu' like 'oo' (Tu-fel) - it should be 'oy'.
  • Pronouncing the 'f' as a 'v' sound.
  • Adding an extra vowel at the end (Teu-fe-le).
  • Making the 'l' too 'dark' like in the English word 'full'. Keep it light.
  • Stress on the second syllable (teu-FEL) is incorrect.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The word itself is easy to recognize, but its meaning in idioms can be tricky.

Écriture 3/5

Requires knowledge of masculine declension and correct spelling of 'eu'.

Expression orale 2/5

Pronunciation of 'eu' needs practice, but it's a very common sound.

Écoute 2/5

Easily identified in speech due to the distinct 'oy' sound.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

Gott böse Hölle Märchen rot

Apprends ensuite

Satan Dämon Pakt besessen Sünde

Avancé

Mephistopheles Metaphysik Dualismus Exorzismus Apokalypse

Grammaire à connaître

Masculine Noun Declension

Der Teufel (Nom), Den Teufel (Acc), Dem Teufel (Dat), Des Teufels (Gen).

Compound Noun Formation

Teufel + Kreis = Teufelskreis (Note the 's' linking element).

Diphthong 'eu'

The 'eu' in Teufel is always pronounced 'oy'.

Negation through Idiom

'Ich werde den Teufel tun' means 'I will NOT do it'.

Contractions with Prepositions

zu + dem = zum Teufel; von + dem = vom Teufel.

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Exemples par niveau

1

Der Teufel ist eine Figur in Märchen.

The devil is a character in fairy tales.

Nominative case, subject of the sentence.

2

Ich habe Angst vor dem Teufel.

I am afraid of the devil.

Dative case after the preposition 'vor'.

3

Ist der Teufel böse?

Is the devil evil?

Simple question structure.

4

Der Teufel trägt oft Rot.

The devil often wears red.

Present tense verb 'trägt'.

5

Gott und der Teufel sind Gegensätze.

God and the devil are opposites.

Plural subject with 'sind'.

6

Pfui Teufel! Das schmeckt nicht.

Yuck! That doesn't taste good.

Common exclamation 'Pfui Teufel'.

7

Hier ist ein Bild vom Teufel.

Here is a picture of the devil.

'Vom' is a contraction of 'von dem' (dative).

8

Der Teufel hat zwei Hörner.

The devil has two horns.

Direct object 'Hörner' in accusative plural.

1

Was zum Teufel machst du da?

What the hell are you doing there?

Idiomatic exclamation using 'zum' (zu + dem).

2

Er ist ein armer Teufel ohne Geld.

He is a poor devil/soul without money.

Adjective 'armer' modifying 'Teufel'.

3

Mal den Teufel nicht an die Wand!

Don't paint the devil on the wall! (Don't be so pessimistic!)

Imperative mood with an accusative object.

4

Das ist ein Teufelskreis aus Schulden.

That is a vicious circle of debt.

Compound noun 'Teufelskreis'.

5

Geh zum Teufel!

Go to hell!

Strong imperative expression.

6

Warum hast du den Teufel gerufen?

Why did you call the devil?

Perfect tense with 'den Teufel' as accusative object.

7

Der Teufel steckt im Detail.

The devil is in the details.

Common proverb.

8

Sie ist ein kleiner Teufelsbraten.

She is a little rascal.

Compound noun 'Teufelsbraten' for a child.

1

Wenn man vom Teufel spricht, kommt er.

Speak of the devil and he appears.

Conditional clause structure.

2

Ich werde den Teufel tun und ihm helfen!

I'll be damned if I help him! (I certainly won't help him!)

Idiomatic refusal using accusative.

3

Das war eine teuflisch schwere Aufgabe.

That was a devilishly difficult task.

Adverbial use of 'teuflisch'.

4

Er hat einen Pakt mit dem Teufel geschlossen.

He made a pact with the devil.

Dative case after 'mit'.

5

In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen.

In times of need, the devil eats flies. (Beggars can't be choosers.)

Classical German proverb.

6

Sie reitet der Teufel heute wieder.

The devil is riding her today again. (She is in a very bad mood/acting crazy.)

Idiomatic expression for being possessed by a mood.

7

Das ist doch Teufelszeug!

That is devil's work/nonsense!

Compound noun used for strange or bad technology/ideas.

8

Er hat den Teufel im Leib.

He has the devil in his body. (He is full of energy or mischief.)

Idiom for high energy or wild behavior.

1

Man sollte den Teufel nicht an die Wand malen, sonst passiert es wirklich.

One shouldn't paint the devil on the wall, otherwise it will really happen.

Modal verb 'sollte' with idiomatic phrase.

2

Die Gier ist die Wurzel alles Teuflischen.

Greed is the root of all things devilish.

Substantivized adjective 'Teuflischen'.

3

Er ist bekannt als ein echter Teufelskerl.

He is known as a real daredevil.

Compound noun 'Teufelskerl' (positive connotation).

4

Der Plan war teuflisch gut durchdacht.

The plan was devilishly well thought out.

Adverbial intensifier.

5

Es ist, als wäre der Teufel hinter ihm her.

It's as if the devil were after him.

Subjunctive II (Konjunktiv II) for comparison.

6

Teufel noch eins! Wo sind meine Schlüssel?

Damn it! Where are my keys?

Fixed exclamation for frustration.

7

Er wollte den Teufel mit dem Beelzebub austreiben.

He wanted to drive out the devil with Beelzebub. (Fixing a problem with a worse one.)

Idiom involving multiple devil names.

8

Dieses Gerät ist ein Werk des Teufels.

This device is a work of the devil.

Genitive case 'des Teufels'.

1

Die Ambivalenz des Teufels in der Weltliteratur ist faszinierend.

The ambivalence of the devil in world literature is fascinating.

Genitive attribute.

2

Er hat sich auf ein teuflisches Spiel eingelassen.

He got involved in a devilish game.

Adjective 'teuflisch' in a figurative sense.

3

Man sagt, der Teufel scheißt immer auf den größten Haufen.

They say the devil always shits on the biggest pile. (Wealth goes to the wealthy.)

Vulgar but common proverb about inequality.

4

Diese politische Entscheidung führt uns direkt in einen Teufelskreis.

This political decision leads us directly into a vicious circle.

Metaphorical use in formal context.

5

Er ist des Teufels, wenn er das wirklich glaubt.

He is possessed/crazy if he really believes that.

Genitive predicate 'des Teufels sein'.

6

Mephisto ist die wohl bekannteste Teufelsfigur der deutschen Klassik.

Mephisto is probably the most famous devil figure of German Classicism.

Compound noun.

7

Teufelsbrücken findet man in ganz Europa.

Devil's bridges can be found all over Europe.

Geographical/Folklore term.

8

Er beherrscht sein Handwerk teuflisch sicher.

He masters his craft with devilish certainty.

Adverbial intensifier for skill.

1

Die Dekonstruktion des Teufelsbegriffs offenbart gesellschaftliche Ängste.

The deconstruction of the concept of the devil reveals societal fears.

Academic genitive construction.

2

In jener Nacht ritt ihn der Teufel der Eifersucht.

That night, the devil of jealousy rode him. (He was consumed by jealousy.)

Highly literary personification.

3

Die Dialektik zwischen Gott und Teufel ist ein zentrales Motiv.

The dialectic between God and devil is a central motif.

Abstract philosophical terminology.

4

Er agierte mit einer geradezu teuflischen Raffinesse.

He acted with an almost devilish sophistication.

Advanced descriptive noun phrase.

5

Wer mit dem Teufel frühstücken will, braucht einen langen Löffel.

He who wants to breakfast with the devil needs a long spoon.

Archaic/Sophisticated proverb about danger.

6

Die Teufelei seiner Intrige wurde erst spät erkannt.

The devilishness of his intrigue was only recognized late.

Abstract noun 'Teufelei'.

7

Er hat den Teufel an die Wand gemalt und nun ist die Krise da.

He painted the devil on the wall and now the crisis is here.

Perfect tense of a complex idiom.

8

Manch einer sieht im Fortschritt das Werk des Teufels.

Many a person sees the work of the devil in progress.

Literary 'manch einer' construction.

Collocations courantes

armer Teufel
zum Teufel
teuflisch gut
Teufel an die Wand malen
Teufelskreis
Was zum Teufel
vom Teufel besessen
den Teufel im Leib haben
ein Pakt mit dem Teufel
Pfui Teufel

Phrases Courantes

Den Teufel tun

— A strong way to say you will definitely not do something. It expresses total refusal.

Ich werde den Teufel tun und mich entschuldigen!

Wenn man vom Teufel spricht

— Said when someone you were just talking about suddenly appears. Equivalent to 'Speak of the devil'.

Da ist er ja! Wenn man vom Teufel spricht...

Der Teufel ist los

— Used to describe a situation where everything is chaotic, wild, or there is a lot of trouble.

Auf der Party war der Teufel los.

In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen

— When you are in a desperate situation, you have to accept things you normally wouldn't like.

Das Hotel ist hässlich, aber in der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen.

Den Teufel an die Wand malen

— To talk about a possible disaster in a way that makes it seem certain or likely to happen.

Jetzt mal doch nicht gleich den Teufel an die Wand!

Ein Teufelskerl sein

— To be a very brave, capable, or daring man. Usually used as a compliment.

Er hat das Rennen gewonnen, er ist ein Teufelskerl.

Zum Teufel gehen

— To go to ruin or to fail completely. Also used as an insult 'Go to hell!'.

Ohne Investitionen wird die Firma zum Teufel gehen.

Des Teufels sein

— To be crazy, possessed, or acting in an insane manner.

Du bist wohl des Teufels!

Der Teufel steckt im Detail

— Even if a plan looks good, small details can cause big problems.

Das Projekt sieht einfach aus, aber der Teufel steckt im Detail.

Pfui Teufel!

— An exclamation of strong disgust or physical revulsion.

Pfui Teufel, der Fisch ist ja verfault!

Souvent confondu avec

der Teufel vs die Hölle

Hölle is the place (Hell), Teufel is the person (Devil). People often mix the genders in 'Was zum Teufel' vs 'Was zur Hölle'.

der Teufel vs der Dämon

A demon is a lesser evil spirit, whereas the Teufel is usually the supreme evil being.

der Teufel vs der Satan

Satan is more formal and biblical; Teufel is more common in idioms and everyday language.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Den Teufel mit dem Beelzebub austreiben"

— To try to fix a bad situation by using something that is just as bad or worse.

Schulden mit neuen Schulden zu bezahlen, heißt den Teufel mit dem Beelzebub auszutreiben.

Literary/Sophisticated
"Dich soll der Teufel holen!"

— A very harsh curse, wishing that the devil would take the person away.

Verschwinde, dich soll der Teufel holen!

Archaic/Very Informal
"Dem Teufel ein Ohr abquatschen"

— To talk so much that you would even exhaust the devil. Used for very talkative people.

Meine Tante kann dem Teufel ein Ohr abquatschen.

Informal/Humorous
"Ein Ritt auf dem Teufel"

— A very dangerous or risky undertaking.

Die Expedition war ein Ritt auf dem Teufel.

Literary
"Wie der Teufel hinter der armen Seele her sein"

— To pursue someone or something very intensely and relentlessly.

Die Polizei war wie der Teufel hinter der armen Seele her.

Informal
"Der Teufel scheißt immer auf den größten Haufen"

— Success and money tend to go to those who already have plenty of it.

Er hat schon wieder im Lotto gewonnen – der Teufel scheißt immer auf den größten Haufen.

Vulgar/Proverbial
"Wissen, wo der Teufel begraben liegt"

— To know exactly where the core of a problem or a secret is hidden.

Endlich weiß ich, wo der Teufel begraben liegt.

Informal
"Den Teufel im Leib haben"

— To be extremely energetic, wild, or restless.

Die Kinder haben heute den Teufel im Leib.

Informal
"Vom Teufel geritten werden"

— To act suddenly and inexplicably in a crazy or bad way.

Was hat dich da bloß geritten? Wurdest du vom Teufel geritten?

Informal
"Wer den Teufel laden will, muss ihn auch bewirten"

— If you start something dangerous or invite trouble, you have to deal with the consequences.

Du hast ihn provoziert; wer den Teufel laden will, muss ihn auch bewirten.

Literary

Facile à confondre

der Teufel vs Täfel

Similar sound to 'Teufel'.

A 'Täfel' (usually 'Täfelchen') is a small tablet or board (like a chocolate bar).

Ich esse eine Tafel Schokolade, nicht einen Teufel.

der Teufel vs Taufel

Spelling similarity.

This word does not exist, but it's a common misspelling for 'Tafel' or 'Teufel'.

N/A

der Teufel vs Zweifel

Rhymes with Teufel.

Zweifel means 'doubt'.

Ich habe Zweifel, ob der Teufel existiert.

der Teufel vs Stiefel

Rhymes and similar ending.

Stiefel means 'boot'.

Der Teufel trägt keine Stiefel.

der Teufel vs Löffel

Rhymes and similar structure.

Löffel means 'spoon'.

Man braucht einen langen Löffel, um mit dem Teufel zu essen.

Structures de phrases

A2

Was zum Teufel [verb] [subject]?

Was zum Teufel machst du?

A2

[Subject] ist ein armer Teufel.

Mein Nachbar ist ein armer Teufel.

B1

Mal den Teufel nicht an die Wand!

Mal den Teufel nicht an die Wand!

B1

Wenn man vom Teufel spricht, ...

Wenn man vom Teufel spricht, kommt er.

B2

[Subject] werde den Teufel tun und [Verb].

Ich werde den Teufel tun und ihm Geld geben.

B2

Der Teufel steckt im [Noun].

Der Teufel steckt im Detail.

C1

In der Not frisst der Teufel [Noun].

In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen.

C1

[Subject] ist des Teufels.

Bist du des Teufels?

Famille de mots

Noms

Teufelei (devilry)
Teufelskreis (vicious circle)
Teufelskerl (daredevil)
Teufelsbraten (rascal)
Teufelszeug (devil's work/junk)
Teufelchen (little devil)

Verbes

verteufeln (to demonize)
teufeln (to act like a devil - rare)

Adjectifs

teuflisch (devilish/diabolical)
teufelswild (furious/wild)

Apparenté

Hölle (hell)
Satanismus (satanism)
Dämon (demon)
Verdammnis (damnation)
Exorzismus (exorcism)
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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Highly frequent in idioms and exclamations; moderately frequent in religious or literary contexts.

Erreurs courantes
  • Was zur Teufel? → Was zum Teufel?

    Teufel is masculine, so it must be 'zu + dem = zum'. 'Zur' is for feminine nouns.

  • Ich sehe den Teufelen. → Ich sehe den Teufel.

    Teufel is not an n-declension noun. It does not add an -en in the accusative singular.

  • Using 'den Teufel tun' to mean 'I will do it'. → It means 'I will NOT do it'.

    This is an idiomatic negation. Using it literally will cause confusion.

  • Pronouncing Teufel like 'Tee-fel'. → Pronounce it 'Toy-fel'.

    The 'eu' diphthong in German is always pronounced like 'oy'.

  • Mal den Teufel an die Wand. → Mal den Teufel NICHT an die Wand.

    The idiom is almost always used in the negative to tell someone to stop being pessimistic.

Astuces

Masculine but Regular

Remember that 'Teufel' is a regular masculine noun. It does NOT take an -n in the accusative or dative singular. It's 'den Teufel', not 'den Teufeln'.

Faustian Bargains

If you want to sound smart, refer to a 'Pakt mit dem Teufel' when discussing someone who has compromised their morals for success.

Don't Paint It!

Use 'Mal den Teufel nicht an die Wand' when a friend is being too pessimistic about their exam results or a date.

Naughty Kids

Call a mischievous child a 'Teufelsbraten'. it's a bit old-fashioned but very charming and native-sounding.

The 'EU' Sound

Always pronounce 'eu' as 'oy'. If you say 'Toofel', nobody will understand you. Think of the word 'Joy'.

Negation Refusal

Remember that 'Ich werde den Teufel tun' actually means 'I will NOT do it'. This is the most common mistake for learners.

Intensify with Teuflisch

Use 'teuflisch' as an adverb to mean 'extremely'. 'Teuflisch schwer' sounds much more natural than 'sehr, sehr schwer'.

D vs T

Link 'Teufel' to 'Devil' in your head by remembering the D-to-T consonant shift. It makes the word easier to recall.

Zum vs Zur

Listen for 'zum Teufel' (masculine) vs 'zur Hölle' (feminine). It's a great way to train your ear for gendered contractions.

The 'Armer Teufel'

Use 'armer Teufel' to show empathy for someone who has had a lot of bad luck. It sounds very warm and human.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of the word 'Toy' and 'Full'. The devil is 'Full' of 'Toys' (temptations). Teu (Toy) + fel (Full).

Association visuelle

Imagine a red devil sitting on a 'T' shaped throne. The 'T' stands for Teufel.

Word Web

Hölle Rot Hörner Satan Böse Pakt Feuer Schwanz

Défi

Try to use 'Was zum Teufel?' in a sentence about a confusing situation today, and 'Teufelskreis' to describe a habit you want to break.

Origine du mot

The word 'Teufel' comes from the Old High German 'tiufal', which was borrowed from the Latin 'diabolus'. This Latin word itself was a loanword from the Greek 'diabolos', which means 'slanderer' or 'accuser'. It is a compound of 'dia' (across) and 'ballein' (to throw), literally meaning 'one who throws something across' someone's path to trip them up.

Sens originel : Slanderer, accuser, or someone who creates obstacles.

Indo-European -> Germanic -> West Germanic -> German.

Contexte culturel

While common in idioms, using 'Teufel' in a religious context can be sensitive for devout Christians. In very formal settings, avoid 'Was zum Teufel' as it is considered slangy/rude.

In English, 'devil' is often used as a mild swear word or for spicy food. In German, 'Teufel' is used similarly but has a much stronger connection to literary tradition (Faust).

Goethe's 'Faust' (Mephistopheles) The Brothers Grimm Fairy Tales (e.g., 'Der Teufel mit den drei goldenen Haaren') The movie 'Der Teufel trägt Prada' (The Devil Wears Prada - German title)

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Expressing Frustration

  • Was zum Teufel?
  • Teufel noch eins!
  • Zum Teufel mit dir!
  • Pfui Teufel!

Discussing Literature

  • Ein Pakt mit dem Teufel
  • Mephistopheles ist der Teufel in Faust
  • Die Figur des Teufels
  • Das Böse personifiziert

Describing People

  • Ein armer Teufel
  • Ein Teufelskerl
  • Ein kleiner Teufelsbraten
  • Vom Teufel besessen sein

Describing Problems

  • Ein Teufelskreis
  • Der Teufel steckt im Detail
  • Da ist der Teufel drin
  • Den Teufel an die Wand malen

Proverbs and Wisdom

  • Wenn man vom Teufel spricht
  • In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen
  • Den Teufel mit dem Beelzebub austreiben
  • Der Teufel scheißt auf den größten Haufen

Amorces de conversation

"Glaubst du, dass der Teufel nur eine Metapher für das Böse im Menschen ist?"

"Welche Geschichten über den Teufel kennst du aus deiner Kultur?"

"Hast du schon einmal Goethe's Faust gelesen oder im Theater gesehen?"

"Findest du die Figur des Teufels in Filmen eher gruselig oder faszinierend?"

"Was ist für dich ein echter Teufelskreis in der modernen Gesellschaft?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du 'den Teufel an die Wand gemalt' hast und am Ende doch alles gut wurde.

Schreibe über einen 'Teufelskerl', den du bewunderst. Was macht diese Person so mutig?

Reflektiere über den Ausdruck 'Der Teufel steckt im Detail'. Wo hast du das in deinem Leben schon erlebt?

Wenn du einen Pakt mit dem Teufel schließen müsstest (nur hypothetisch!), was würdest du dir wünschen?

Analysiere, warum das Wort 'Teufel' in so vielen deutschen Schimpfwörtern und Ausdrücken vorkommt.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is not a 'curse' in the sense of being highly offensive, but 'Was zum Teufel?' is very informal and can be seen as rude in professional settings. In most contexts, it's just a strong way to express emotion.

Not necessarily. While that is its origin, it often refers to a rascal, a brave person (Teufelskerl), or simply a source of bad luck or trouble.

It is always masculine: 'der Teufel'. This is true even when referring to the concept of evil in general.

The phrase is 'Wenn man vom Teufel spricht...'. Sometimes people add '...dann kommt er gelaufen' (then he comes running).

It means you will absolutely not do something. For example, 'Ich werde den Teufel tun und ihm helfen' means 'I will certainly not help him'.

No, it can be used for emphasis in a positive way, like 'teuflisch gut' (devilishly good), though it usually implies something intense or clever.

It's a 'vicious circle' – a situation where one problem causes another, which then makes the first problem worse, creating a loop.

Mephisto (or Mephistopheles) is the devil character in Goethe's famous play 'Faust'. He is the most iconic 'Teufel' in German culture.

Yes, the plural is 'die Teufel'. The form doesn't change from the singular nominative.

It's an exclamation used to express strong disgust, like 'Yuck!' or 'How disgusting!'.

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Teste-toi 192 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'Teufelskreis' to describe a bad habit.

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writing

Write a short dialogue using 'Was zum Teufel?'.

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writing

Explain in German what 'den Teufel an die Wand malen' means.

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writing

Describe a character who is a 'Teufelskerl'.

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writing

Use the word 'armer Teufel' in a sentence about someone you feel sorry for.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'teuflisch' as an adverb.

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writing

Create a sentence using 'den Teufel tun' to express a strong refusal.

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writing

Write a sentence about a 'Pakt mit dem Teufel'.

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writing

Use 'Pfui Teufel' in a sentence about something you dislike.

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writing

Write a short story (3 sentences) about a meeting with the devil.

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writing

Describe a 'Teufelsbraten' you know.

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writing

Explain the proverb 'In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen'.

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writing

Write a sentence using the genitive 'des Teufels'.

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writing

Use 'Wenn man vom Teufel spricht' in a context sentence.

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writing

Write a formal sentence about the role of the devil in folklore.

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writing

Describe a 'teuflisch gut' meal you once had.

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writing

Use 'Teufel noch eins' in a sentence expressing frustration.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'den Teufel im Leib haben'.

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writing

Contrast 'der Teufel' and 'ein Engel' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about a 'Teufelsmauer' or 'Teufelsbrücke'.

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speaking

Pronounce the word 'Teufel' clearly, focusing on the 'eu' sound.

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speaking

Say 'Was zum Teufel?' with an angry intonation.

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speaking

Explain the meaning of 'Teufelskreis' in your own words in German.

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speaking

Say the phrase 'Wenn man vom Teufel spricht' as if a friend just arrived.

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speaking

Practice saying 'Pfui Teufel!' with a look of disgust.

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speaking

Refuse to do something using 'Ich werde den Teufel tun!'.

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speaking

Use 'teuflisch gut' to describe a meal you like.

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speaking

Say 'Mal den Teufel nicht an die Wand' to a worried friend.

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speaking

Pronounce 'Teufelsbraten' and 'Teufelskerl' correctly.

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speaking

Tell someone to 'Get lost' using 'Geh zum Teufel!'.

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speaking

Describe an 'armer Teufel' you saw on the street.

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speaking

Explain 'Der Teufel steckt im Detail' in a business context.

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speaking

Recite the proverb 'In der Not frisst der Teufel Fliegen'.

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speaking

Ask someone 'Bist du des Teufels?' with a shocked expression.

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speaking

Say 'Teufel noch eins!' after dropping something.

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speaking

Discuss the character of Mephisto in German.

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speaking

Explain why 'Teufelszeug' is used for modern technology.

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speaking

Practice the dative plural: 'den Teufeln'.

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speaking

Describe a 'teuflisches Spiel' you saw in a movie.

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speaking

Say 'Der Teufel scheißt immer auf den größten Haufen' and explain it.

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listening

Identify the word 'Teufel' in a sentence about a bad day.

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listening

Listen for the contraction 'zum' before 'Teufel' in an exclamation.

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listening

Distinguish between 'Teufel' and 'Zweifel' in a spoken sentence.

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listening

Identify the idiom 'den Teufel an die Wand malen' in a conversation.

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listening

Understand the tone of 'armer Teufel' (sympathy vs insult).

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listening

Listen for 'Teufelskreis' in a news clip about inflation.

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listening

Recognize the negation in 'Ich werde den Teufel tun'.

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listening

Identify the word 'teuflisch' used as an intensifier.

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listening

Listen for the genitive 'des Teufels' in a literary reading.

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listening

Understand the context of 'Pfui Teufel' in a reality show.

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listening

Identify the character 'Mephisto' being mentioned in a podcast.

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listening

Listen for the plural 'Teufel' in a fairy tale.

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listening

Recognize the phrase 'Wenn man vom Teufel spricht'.

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listening

Understand the frustration in 'Teufel noch eins!'.

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listening

Identify 'Teufelszeug' in an old person's dialogue.

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/ 192 correct

Perfect score!

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