Swiss German — Daily Life (for English Speakers) Official
205 Swiss German (Züridütsch) words for daily life in Switzerland. Shopping, food, transport, social situations, and work with phonetic pronunciation guides and cultural context.
CEFR A2 — Elementary
At this level you can handle daily routines, describe your background. Vocabulary: ~1,200 words (cumulative).
Swiss German → English206 words~21 days at 10 words/day1 downloadA2B1
No ratingsNo ratingsby admin@wordsonrepeat.comJun 13, 2026
Ich muess no go poschte, mir händ nüüt meh im Chüelschrank.
I still need to go grocery shopping, we have nothing left in the fridge.
Pronounced: POSH-teh GAH. The go-construction: 'go poschte' = einkaufen gehen. 'Nüüt meh' = nichts mehr (nothing left). 'Chüelschrank' = Kühlschrank (fridge), with k→ch shift.
d Migros
Migros (supermarket chain)
Ich gah id Migros, bruuchsch öppis?
I'm going to Migros, do you need anything?
Pronounced: d MEE-gros. Switzerland's largest retailer. Known for NOT selling alcohol or tobacco. Has its own brands (M-Budget, Sélection). 'Bruuchsch' = brauchst du (do you need).
de Coop
Coop (supermarket chain)
Im Coop gits guete Wii.
At Coop there's good wine.
Pronounced: deh KOHP. Switzerland's second-largest supermarket chain. Unlike Migros, Coop sells alcohol. 'Gits' = gibt es (there is). 'Wii' = Wein (wine).
d Kasse
checkout / cash register
D Schlange an de Kasse isch lang.
The line at the checkout is long.
Pronounced: d KAHS-seh. 'D Schlange' = die Schlange (the queue/line). 'An de Kasse' = an der Kasse (at the checkout). Swiss queuing is orderly — cutting in line is very frowned upon.
de Priis
price
Was isch de Priis für das?
What is the price for this?
Pronounced: deh PREESS (long 'i'). Standard German: Preis. 'Priis' with long 'ii' is Zürich pronunciation. 'Für das' = dafür (for this). Swiss prices are generally higher than neighboring countries.
d Quittung
receipt
Bruuched Si d Quittung?
Do you need the receipt? (formal)
Pronounced: d KVIT-toong. Same as Standard German 'Quittung'. Also called 'de Kassezettel'. 'Bruuched Si' = brauchen Sie (do you need, formal). Cashiers always ask.
d Aktion
sale / special offer
Häsch gseh? S Poulet isch in de Aktion.
Did you see? The chicken is on sale.
Pronounced: d ahk-TSYOHN. FALSE FRIEND: 'Aktion' in Swiss German typically means a sale/discount, not 'action'. 'Häsch gseh?' = hast du gesehen? (did you see?). Migros and Coop have weekly Aktionen.
Bio
organic
Ich chaufe lieber Bio-Gmües.
I prefer to buy organic vegetables.
'Bio' = organic/biological. Switzerland has high organic food consumption. 'Gmües' = Gemüse (vegetables). 'Lieber' = preferably. Bio products have 'Bio Suisse' (Knospe) label.
d Tüüte
bag (plastic/paper)
Bruuchsch e Tüüte? — Nei, ich ha en Sack.
Do you need a bag? — No, I have a bag.
Pronounced: d TEWT-eh (long ü as 'ew'). 'Tüüte' and 'Sack' both mean bag. 'Nei' = nein (no). Swiss shops charge for plastic bags. Bring your own reusable bag ('Mehrwägsack').
d Cumulus-Charte
Migros loyalty card
Häsch dini Cumulus-Charte?
Do you have your Cumulus card?
Pronounced: d KOO-moo-loos KHAR-teh (ch guttural). Migros loyalty program. Coop's equivalent is 'Supercard'. 'Dini' = deine (your). Cashiers ask 'Cumulus?' at every Migros checkout.
barzahle
to pay cash
Ich zahle bar, häsch Wächselgäld?
I'm paying cash, do you have change?
Pronounced: BAR-tsah-leh. 'Bar' = cash. 'Wächselgäld' = Wechselgeld (change). Switzerland uses cash more than many European countries. 'Zahle' = zahlen (to pay).
d Charte
card (payment)
Chan ich mit de Charte zahle?
Can I pay by card?
Pronounced: d KHAR-teh (ch as strong guttural). Standard German: Karte. k→ch shift. Most Swiss shops accept debit cards (Maestro/Debit Mastercard). Contactless (TWINT app) is increasingly popular.
s Münz
coin / coins
Häsch Münz für de Wage?
Do you have coins for the cart?
Pronounced: s MEWNTS (ü as 'ew'). Standard German: Münze. 'De Wage' = der Wagen (shopping cart). Swiss shopping carts often need a 1 or 2 franc coin. 'Münz' is uncountable in Swiss German.
de Märt
market
Am Samschtig gömer uf de Märt.
On Saturday we go to the market.
Pronounced: deh MAIRT (ä as in 'air'). Standard German: Markt. Weekly farmers' markets are common in Swiss cities. 'Am Samschtig' = am Samstag (on Saturday). Fresh local produce.
s Sonderangebot
special offer
Das isch es Sonderangebot, nur hüt.
That's a special offer, today only.
Pronounced: s ZON-der-ahn-geh-boht. Same as Standard German. 'Nur hüt' = nur heute (today only). Migros and Coop cycle through weekly specials. Check the 'Aktion' section.
iichaufe
to shop / to buy things
Ich gah am Samschtig go iichaufe.
I'm going shopping on Saturday.
Pronounced: EE-khow-feh (ch guttural, au as 'ow'). Standard German: einkaufen. 'Ii' = ein (prefix). More general than 'poschte' (groceries) — can be clothes, electronics, etc. Go-construction: 'go iichaufe'.
de Lade
shop / store
De Lade macht um achti uuf.
The shop opens at eight.
Pronounced: deh LAH-deh. Standard German: Laden. 'Macht uuf' = macht auf (opens). 'Achti' = acht Uhr (eight o'clock). Swiss shops: typically 8/9am-6:30/7pm, shorter on Saturday.
de Chiosk
kiosk / convenience store
Am Chiosk chaufsch Zigarette und Ziittige.
At the kiosk you buy cigarettes and newspapers.
Pronounced: deh KHEE-osk (ch guttural). k→ch shift: Kiosk→Chiosk. Swiss kiosks (Kiosk, Avec, k kiosk) sell newspapers, snacks, drinks, transit tickets. Often at train stations. 'Ziittige' = Zeitungen.
gnueg
enough
Mir händ gnueg Brot.
We have enough bread.
Pronounced: g-NOOG. Standard German: genug. 'Händ' = haben (wir-form). 'Gnueg' with the typical Swiss g- prefix. Used in shopping: 'Isch das gnueg?' (Is that enough?).
s Wächselgäld
change (money)
Ich ha keis Wächselgäld.
I don't have any change.
Pronounced: s VEKH-sel-geld (ä as in 'bed'). Standard German: Wechselgeld. 'Keis' = kein (neuter). Useful at markets and small shops. Swiss coins: 5, 10, 20, 50 Rappen; 1, 2, 5 Franken.
s Müesli
muesli / granola
Zum Zmorge äss ich immer Müesli.
For breakfast I always eat muesli.
Pronounced: s MEWS-lee (ü as 'ew'). Invented by Swiss doctor Maximilian Bircher-Benner. 'Birchermüesli' is the original Swiss version with oats, nuts, yogurt, and apple. 'Äss' = esse (I eat).
d Cervelat
cervelat (Swiss national sausage)
Mir grilliere Cervelat am See.
We're grilling cervelat by the lake.
Pronounced: d TSAIR-veh-laht. Switzerland's unofficial national sausage. Grilled, boiled, or eaten cold. The classic way: cut a cross in the end and grill it. 'Am See' = at the lake.
s Raclette
raclette (melted cheese dish)
Im Winter mached mir Raclette.
In winter we make raclette.
Pronounced: s rah-KLET. From French 'racler' (to scrape). Melted cheese scraped over potatoes, pickles, and onions. A Swiss winter tradition. 'Mached' = machen (we make).
s Fondue
fondue (cheese fondue)
Chömer hüt Fondue mache?
Can we make fondue today?
Pronounced: s fon-DEW. Cheese melted with wine in a Caquelon (pot), eaten by dipping bread. National dish of Switzerland. 'Chömer' = können wir (can we). A social event, not just a meal.
d Rösti
rösti (fried potato cake)
D Rösti isch am beschte mit Chäs.
Rösti is best with cheese.
Pronounced: d RURSH-tee (ö like 'ur' in 'fur'). Grated potato fried into a flat cake. A Swiss classic. 'Röstigraben' = the cultural divide between French and German Switzerland. 'Am beschte' = am besten (best).
s Gipfeli
croissant
Ich nimm es Gipfeli zum Kafi.
I'll have a croissant with my coffee.
Pronounced: s GIP-feh-lee. Swiss word for croissant. Literally 'little peak' (Gipfel + -li). Standard German: Croissant/Hörnchen. A staple breakfast item at Swiss bakeries.
s Weggli
bread roll
Zwei Weggli und es Gipfeli, bitte.
Two bread rolls and a croissant, please.
Pronounced: s VEG-lee. Swiss bread roll. Diminutive of 'Wecken'. Standard German: Brötchen/Semmel. A soft, slightly sweet roll. 'Zwei' = two.
de Zopf
braided bread (Sunday bread)
Am Sunntig gits immer Zopf.
On Sunday there's always braided bread.
Pronounced: deh TSOPF. Traditional Swiss braided bread (Butterzopf) eaten on Sundays. Rich, buttery, slightly sweet. 'Am Sunntig' = am Sonntag (on Sunday). A beloved Swiss tradition.
de Kafi
coffee
Ich bruuch zerscht en Kafi.
I need a coffee first.
Pronounced: deh KAH-fee. Standard German: Kaffee. 'Kafi' is shorter. 'Zerscht' = zuerst (first). Swiss coffee culture: Kafi Crème (regular coffee with cream), Schale (large milky coffee).
de Kafi Crème
regular coffee (with cream)
En Kafi Crème, bitte.
A coffee with cream, please.
Pronounced: deh KAH-fee KREM. The standard Swiss coffee order. NOT an espresso with cream — it's a regular filter/lungo-style coffee. In Bern: 'Kafi'. In restaurants, specify 'Kafi Crème' or you might get an espresso.
d Stange
draft beer (tall glass)
Zwei Stange, bitte!
Two draft beers, please!
Pronounced: d SHTAHNG-eh. A tall, thin glass of draft beer (3dl). Literally 'rod/pole'. To order: 'E Stange bitte'. For a large beer: 'E Grosse'. This is Zürich dialect; in Bern: 'E Stange'.
de Schoppe
glass of wine (approx. 2dl)
En Schoppe Wiisse, bitte.
A glass of white wine, please.
Pronounced: deh SHOP-peh. A measured glass of wine, typically 1-2dl. 'Wiisse' = Weißwein (white wine). 'Roote' = Rotwein (red wine). Important for ordering wine in Swiss restaurants.
d Glace
ice cream
Im Summer äss ich gärn Glace.
In summer I like to eat ice cream.
Pronounced: d GLAHS (French origin, rhymes with 'class'). From French 'glace'. Standard German: Eis/Eiscreme. 'Gärn' = gerne (gladly/like to). Pronunciation: 'Glass'. Common at kiosks and gelaterie.
s Panaché
shandy (beer mixed with lemonade)
Am Sunntig trink ich lieber es Panaché.
On Sunday I prefer to drink a shandy.
Pronounced: s pah-nah-SHEH (French origin). From French 'panaché' (mixed). Beer mixed with lemon soda (50/50). Very popular in summer. Standard German: Radler. Low alcohol, refreshing.
s Rivella
Rivella (Swiss soft drink)
Häsch Rivella? — Rot oder Blau?
Do you have Rivella? — Red or Blue?
Pronounced: s ree-VEL-lah. Iconic Swiss soft drink made from milk serum. Comes in Red (original), Blue (light), and Green (tea). Available nowhere else. A true Swiss cultural icon.
s Cordon bleu
cordon bleu (breaded stuffed schnitzel)
S Cordon bleu isch mini Lieblingsschpiis.
Cordon bleu is my favorite food.
Pronounced: s kor-DONG BLUR (French origin). Breaded meat stuffed with cheese and ham. Very popular in Swiss restaurants. 'Mini' = meine (my). 'Lieblingsschpiis' = Lieblingsspeise (favorite food).
d Älplermagronen
Alpine macaroni (Swiss pasta dish)
Mir händ Älplermagronen gässe, mega fein!
We ate Alpine macaroni, really delicious!
Pronounced: d ELP-ler-mah-GROH-nen. Traditional Swiss mountain dish: pasta with potatoes, cream, cheese, and applesauce on the side. 'Gässe' = gegessen (eaten). A hearty one-pot mountain meal.
d Schpiis
food / dish / meal
Was für Schpiise händ er?
What dishes do you have?
Pronounced: d SHPEESS (long 'i'). Standard German: Speise. 'Schpiise' = plural. Used in restaurants. Also: 's Ässe' (the food, more casual). Swiss German spelling: sch before p.
bestelle
to order (food/drink)
Ich möcht bestelle, bitte.
I'd like to order, please.
Pronounced: beh-SHTEL-leh. Same as Standard German 'bestellen'. 'Möcht' = möchte (would like). In Swiss restaurants, you typically have to flag down the waiter — they won't hover.
d Rächnig
bill / check
D Rächnig, bitte.
The bill, please.
Pronounced: d REKH-nig (ä as in 'bed', ch guttural). Standard German: Rechnung. '-ig' ending instead of '-ung'. Also: 'Zahle, bitte' (Pay, please). Swiss tipping: round up or add 5-10%, not mandatory (service is included).
s Trinkgäld
tip (gratuity)
Muess ich Trinkgäld geh?
Do I have to leave a tip?
Pronounced: s TRINK-geld. Standard German: Trinkgeld. Tipping in Switzerland: service is included in the price by law. Tipping is appreciated but not expected — round up or add 5-10% for good service.
s Tram
tram / streetcar
S Tram Nummer 4 fahrt zum Bahnhof.
Tram number 4 goes to the train station.
Pronounced: s TRAHM. Zürich has 15 tram lines. 'Fahrt' = fährt (drives/goes). Trams are the backbone of Zürich public transport. Run frequently and on time.
de Bus
bus
De Bus chunnt in fööf Minute.
The bus comes in five minutes.
Pronounced: deh BOOS. Same as Standard German. 'Fööf' = fünf (five). Buses complement trams in Zürich and serve areas without tram lines. 'Minute' = Minuten.
de Zug
train
De Zug nach Bärn fahrt ab Gleis drü.
The train to Bern departs from platform three.
Pronounced: deh TSOOG. Same as Standard German. 'Bärn' = Bern (Swiss German pronunciation). 'Gleis' = platform/track. 'Drü' = drei (three). 'Fahrt ab' = fährt ab (departs).
d SBB
Swiss Federal Railways
Ich ha de SBB-App uf em Natel.
I have the SBB app on my phone.
Pronounced: d es-beh-BEH. Schweizerische Bundesbahnen / CFF / FFS (German/French/Italian). Switzerland's national railway. The SBB app is essential for schedules and mobile tickets.
s ZVV
Zürich Transport Network
S ZVV-Billett gilt für Tram, Bus und Zug.
The ZVV ticket is valid for tram, bus, and train.
Pronounced: s tset-fow-FOW. Zürcher Verkehrsverbund — the integrated transit network for the Zürich area. One ticket covers all modes of transport within your zone. 'Gilt' = ist gültig (is valid).
s GA
general travel pass (unlimited travel)
Mit em GA chasch überall fahre.
With the GA you can travel everywhere.
Pronounced: s geh-AH. Generalabonnement — unlimited travel on all Swiss public transport for a year. Expensive but beloved. 'Überall' = everywhere. About 500,000 Swiss have one.
s Halbtax
half-fare travel card
Häsch es Halbtax? — Ja, ich ha eis.
Do you have a Halbtax? — Yes, I have one.
Pronounced: s HAHLP-tahks. Half-fare card giving 50% discount on all Swiss public transport. Most popular travel card — over 3 million Swiss have one. 'Eis' = eins (one, pronoun).
s Velo
bicycle
Ich fahre s ganz Jahr mit em Velo.
I ride my bike all year long.
Pronounced: s VEH-lo. From French 'vélo'. Standard German: Fahrrad. 'S ganz Jahr' = das ganze Jahr (all year). Cycling is common in Swiss cities, with dedicated bike lanes.
de Veloweg
bike path / cycle lane
Bliib uf em Veloweg!
Stay on the bike path!
Pronounced: deh VEH-lo-veg. 'Velo' + 'Weg' (path). 'Bliib' = bleib (stay, imperative). 'Uf em' = auf dem (on the). Swiss cities have expanding networks of bike paths.
parkiere
to park
Wo chan ich do parkiere?
Where can I park here?
Pronounced: par-KEER-eh. From French 'parquer'. Standard German: parken. Parking in Swiss cities is limited and expensive. 'Blaui Zone' (blue zone) = free parking with time disc.
de Stau
traffic jam
Uf de Autobahn isch Stau.
There's a traffic jam on the highway.
Pronounced: deh SHTOW (au as 'ow'). Same as Standard German. 'Uf de Autobahn' = auf der Autobahn. Swiss highways require a Vignette (annual toll sticker, ~40 CHF). Gotthard tunnel jams are legendary.
umstii
to transfer / to change (transport)
Du muesch in Oerlikon umstii.
You have to transfer at Oerlikon.
Pronounced: OOM-shtee (long 'i'). Standard German: umsteigen. 'Umstii' is the Zürich form. 'Muesch' = musst (you must). Swiss transit connections are famously well-timed for transfers.
de Fahrplan
timetable / schedule
Lueg mol im Fahrplan.
Check the timetable.
Pronounced: deh FAR-plahn. Same as Standard German. 'Lueg mol' = schau mal (look/check). The SBB app or sbb.ch has all Swiss public transport schedules. Trains run like clockwork.
iistii
to board / to get on
Schnäll, mir müessed iistii!
Quick, we need to get on!
Pronounced: EE-shtee (long 'i'). Standard German: einsteigen. 'Ii' = ein (prefix). 'Schnäll' = schnell (quick). Opposite: 'usstii' = aussteigen (to get off).
usstii
to get off / to exit (transport)
Mir müessed bi de nöchschte Haltestell usstii.
We need to get off at the next stop.
Pronounced: OOSS-shtee (long 'i'). Standard German: aussteigen. 'Bi de nöchschte' = bei der nächsten (at the next). 'Nöchscht' = nächst (next). Remember to press the stop button!
de Verspaatig
delay
De Zug hät fööf Minute Verspaatig.
The train is five minutes late.
Pronounced: deh fair-SHPAH-tig (long 'a'). Standard German: Verspätung. '-ig' ending instead of '-ung'. Swiss trains are very punctual — even a 3-minute delay is noteworthy. 'Hät' = hat.
s ÖV-Billett
public transport ticket
Häsch dis ÖV-Billett?
Do you have your transit ticket?
Pronounced: s URV-bil-YEH (ö as 'ur'). 'ÖV' = öffentlicher Verkehr (public transport). 'Dis' = dein (your, neuter). Buy tickets BEFORE boarding — ticket inspectors ('Kontrolleur') give fines for riding without a ticket.
schaffe
to work
Ich schaffe vo achti bis föifi.
I work from eight to five.
Pronounced: SHAHF-feh. Standard German: arbeiten. 'Vo' = von (from). 'Achti' = acht Uhr (eight). 'Föifi' = fünf Uhr (five). Swiss work culture is punctual and efficient.
s Büro
office
Ich bi hüt im Büro.
I'm at the office today.
Pronounced: s bew-ROH (ü as 'ew'). Same as Standard German. 'Hüt' = heute (today). 'Im' = in dem. Swiss office culture values punctuality and efficiency. Open-plan offices are common.
d Sitzig
meeting
Ich ha no e Sitzig am Namittag.
I have another meeting in the afternoon.
Pronounced: d ZIT-sig. Standard German: Sitzung. Swiss German '-ig' ending. 'Am Namittag' = am Nachmittag (in the afternoon). 'No' = noch (still/another). Swiss meetings start on time.
de Fiiraabig
end of work / after work
Ich ha Fiiraabig, gömer go öppis trinke?
I'm done with work, shall we go for a drink?
Pronounced: deh FEER-ah-big. Standard German: Feierabend. 'Ich ha Fiiraabig' = I'm done for the day. A beloved concept. 'Gömer' = gehen wir (shall we go). The Fiiraabig-Bier is sacred.
s Wuchenänd
weekend
Was machsch am Wuchenänd?
What are you doing on the weekend?
Pronounced: s VOO-khen-end (ch light guttural). Standard German: Wochenende. 'Machsch' = machst du. A common conversation starter. Swiss weekends often involve outdoor activities, family time, or Apéro.
frei haa
to have a day off
Ich ha morn frei.
I have tomorrow off.
Pronounced: frye HAH (ei as 'eye', long 'a'). 'Frei haa' = frei haben (to have off). Switzerland has many public holidays plus 4-5 weeks vacation. 'Morn' = morgen (tomorrow).
d Lehre
apprenticeship
Si macht e Lehre als Chöchin.
She's doing an apprenticeship as a cook.
Pronounced: d LEH-reh. Switzerland's famous dual education system. About 2/3 of Swiss youth do apprenticeships. 'Chöchin' = Köchin (female cook), k→ch shift. Apprenticeships are highly respected.
de Kolleg
colleague (male)
Min Kolleg isch au us Züri.
My colleague is also from Zurich.
Pronounced: deh kol-LEG. Standard German: Kollege. 'Min' = mein (my, masculine). 'Au' = auch (also). 'Us Züri' = aus Zürich (from Zurich). Female: 'd Kollegin'. Can also mean 'friend'.
de Chef / d Chefin
boss (male/female)
De Chef isch hüt nöd da.
The boss is not here today.
Pronounced: deh SHEF / d SHEF-in. From French 'chef'. Same as Standard German. Swiss workplaces can be surprisingly flat in hierarchy, but respect for the Chef is expected.
Ferie
vacation / holidays
Mir gönd in d Ferie.
We're going on vacation.
Pronounced: FEH-ree-eh. Standard German: Ferien (always plural). 'In d Ferie' = in die Ferien. Swiss employees typically get 4-5 weeks vacation. School holidays vary by canton.
s Homeoffice
working from home
Ich bi hüt im Homeoffice.
I'm working from home today.
Pronounced: s HOHM-off-iss. English loanword commonly used in Swiss German. Became widespread during COVID. 'Im Homeoffice sii' = to be working from home. Many Swiss companies now offer flexible arrangements.
de Lohn
salary / wage
De Lohn in de Schwiiz isch hoch.
Salaries in Switzerland are high.
Pronounced: deh LOHN. Same as Standard German. 'In de Schwiiz' = in der Schweiz. 'Hoch' = high. Swiss salaries are among the highest globally, but so is the cost of living.
de Föhn
Föhn (warm dry wind)
Ich ha Chopfweh wäge em Föhn.
I have a headache because of the Föhn.
Pronounced: deh FURN (ö like 'ur' in 'fur'). Warm, dry wind that comes over the Alps. Many Swiss blame headaches, mood swings, and fatigue on Föhn weather. 'Chopfweh' = Kopfweh (headache), k→ch.
d Bise
Bise (cold northeast wind)
D Bise isch hüt cheibe chalt.
The Bise is damn cold today.
Pronounced: d BEE-zeh. Cold, dry wind from the northeast. Very common in the Swiss Plateau in winter. 'Cheibe' = verdammt (damn, intensifier). Can be biting cold.
chalt
cold
S isch chalt usse, zieh di warm aa!
It's cold outside, dress warmly!
Pronounced: KHAHLT (ch as strong guttural, like clearing throat). Standard German: kalt. k→ch shift. 'Usse' = draußen (outside). 'Zieh di warm aa' = zieh dich warm an (dress warmly). Swiss winters can be cold, especially with Bise.
warm
warm
Hüt isch es schön warm.
It's nice and warm today.
Pronounced: VAHRM. Same as Standard German. 'Schön warm' = pleasantly warm. Swiss summers are moderate but increasingly hot. Lake swimming is popular when it's warm.
heiss
hot
S isch huere heiss, gömer go bade?
It's really hot, shall we go swimming?
Pronounced: HYSS (ei as 'eye'). Same as Standard German. 'Go bade' = baden gehen (go swimming). Go-construction. 'Bade' in Swiss German often means swimming (in a lake or Badi).
es rägnet
it's raining
Es rägnet scho de ganz Taag.
It's been raining all day.
Pronounced: es REG-net (ä as in 'bed'). Standard German: es regnet. 'Scho' = schon (already). 'De ganz Taag' = den ganzen Tag (all day). Zürich gets about 130 rain days per year — bring an umbrella!
es schneit
it's snowing
Lueg, es schneit! Gömer go Schifahre?
Look, it's snowing! Shall we go skiing?
Pronounced: es SHNYTE (ei as 'eye'). Same as Standard German. 'Schifahre' = Ski fahren (to ski). Swiss winters bring snow, especially in the mountains. Skiing is practically a national sport.
s Wätter
weather
S Wätter isch hüt schön.
The weather is nice today.
Pronounced: s VET-ter (ä as in 'bed'). Standard German: Wetter. Swiss German replaces 'e' with 'ä' in many words. Weather is a constant topic in Swiss small talk. Check MeteoSchweiz for forecasts.
de Räge
rain
Nimm en Rägeschirm mit, es chunnt Räge.
Take an umbrella, rain is coming.
Pronounced: deh REH-geh (ä as in 'bed'). Standard German: Regen. 'Rägeschirm' = Regenschirm (umbrella). 'Nimm mit' = nimm mit (take along). Swiss weather can change quickly, especially near the Alps.
de Schnee
snow
Es hät vill Schnee in de Bärge.
There's a lot of snow in the mountains.
Pronounced: deh SHNEH. Same as Standard German. 'Es hät' = es hat/gibt (there is). 'In de Bärge' = in den Bergen (in the mountains). Swiss Alps get heavy snowfall from November to April.
de Näbel
fog
Im Herbscht gits vill Näbel.
In autumn there's a lot of fog.
Pronounced: deh NEH-bel (ä as in 'bed'). Standard German: Nebel. The Swiss Plateau ('Mittelland') is notorious for persistent autumn/winter fog ('Hochnebel'). 'Herbscht' = Herbst (autumn). People escape to the mountains for sun.
d Sunne
sun
D Sunne schiint, gömer use!
The sun is shining, let's go outside!
Pronounced: d ZOON-neh. Standard German: Sonne. 'Schiint' = scheint (shines). 'Gömer use' = gehen wir raus (let's go outside). Swiss people cherish sunny days, especially after foggy winters.
de Jass
Jass (Swiss card game)
Spielsch du au Jass?
Do you play Jass too?
Pronounced: deh YAHS. Switzerland's national card game, played with Swiss-German cards (Schilten, Schellen, Eicheln, Rosen). Variants: Schieber, Coiffeur, Differenzler. A social institution.
de Erst August
August 1st (Swiss National Day)
Am Erste Auguscht gits Füürwärk.
On August 1st there are fireworks.
Pronounced: deh AIRST OW-goosht. Swiss National Day, celebrating the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291. Celebrations: bonfires, fireworks, lantern parades, speeches. 'Füürwärk' = Feuerwerk.
de Apéro
aperitif / drinks & snacks gathering
Chömed zu eus zum Apéro!
Come to our place for aperitif!
Pronounced: deh ah-PEH-roh (French origin). From French. A social gathering with drinks and snacks (nuts, cheese, olives). Central to Swiss social life. 'Chömed' = kommt (imperative, plural). 'Zu eus' = zu uns (to our place).
s Openair
outdoor festival / concert
Gasch au as Openair?
Are you going to the outdoor festival too?
Pronounced: s OH-pen-air. English loanword. Switzerland has many summer Openair festivals (Openair Frauenfeld, Gampel, St. Gallen). 'Gasch' = gehst du (are you going). A summer highlight.
d Fasnacht
carnival / Fasnacht
D Basler Fasnacht isch am beschte.
Basel's Fasnacht is the best.
Pronounced: d FAHS-nakht (ch guttural). Pre-Lent carnival. Basel's Fasnacht (starts 4am on Monday after Ash Wednesday) is UNESCO heritage. Lucerne also famous. 'Am beschte' = am besten (the best).
s Schwinge
Swiss wrestling (Schwingen)
Am Schwingfäscht gits Sägemehl und Hoselupf.
At the wrestling festival there's sawdust and powerful throws.
Pronounced: s SHVING-eh. Traditional Swiss wrestling on sawdust. National sport alongside Jass. The 'Eidgenössisches Schwingfest' is the biggest event (every 3 years). 'Sägemehl' = sawdust.
s Wandere
hiking
Am Wuchenänd gömer go wandere.
On the weekend we're going hiking.
Pronounced: s VAHN-deh-reh. Hiking is Switzerland's most popular leisure activity. 65,000 km of marked trails. 'Go wandere' = wandern gehen. Yellow signs mark paths with estimated walking times.
d Badi
outdoor swimming pool / lido
Mir gönd in d Badi.
We're going to the outdoor pool.
Pronounced: d BAH-dee. Short for 'Badeanstalt'. Zürich has famous Badis along the lake and rivers. Social gathering spots in summer. Also for river swimming (Limmat, Sihl).
d Wohnig
apartment / flat
Mir sueched e grösseri Wohnig.
We're looking for a bigger apartment.
Pronounced: d VOH-nig. Standard German: Wohnung. '-ig' ending. 'Sueched' = suchen (looking for). 'Grösseri' = größere (bigger). Swiss housing market is competitive, especially in Zürich.
d Mieti
rent
D Mieti isch tüür in Züri.
Rent is expensive in Zurich.
Pronounced: d MEE-eh-tee. Standard German: Miete. 'Tüür' = teuer (expensive). Zürich is one of the most expensive cities for rent globally. Average 2-bedroom: ~2,500-3,500 CHF/month.
de Abwart
building caretaker / janitor
Frog de Abwart, er weiss Bescheid.
Ask the caretaker, he knows.
Pronounced: deh AHP-vart. Important person in Swiss apartment buildings. Manages maintenance, cleaning, and rules. 'Bescheid wüsse' = to be informed. The Abwart enforces quiet hours and recycling rules.
d Nebekoste
utilities / additional costs
D Nebekoste sind nöd im Mietzins.
Utilities are not included in the rent.
Pronounced: d NEH-beh-kos-teh. Standard German: Nebenkosten. Includes heating, water, maintenance. 'Mietzins' = Miete (rent, more formal Swiss term). Usually paid monthly on top of rent.
putze
to clean
Am Samschtig muess ich putze.
On Saturday I have to clean.
Pronounced: POOTS-eh. Same as Standard German 'putzen'. Swiss apartment buildings have 'Putzplan' — a rotating cleaning schedule for shared areas. Not following it will upset neighbors.
ufruume
to tidy up / to clean up
Chasch dii Zimmer ufruume?
Can you tidy up your room?
Pronounced: OOF-roo-meh. Standard German: aufräumen. 'Uf' = auf. 'Dii' = dein (your). Tidiness is valued in Swiss culture. 'Ruume' = räumen.
d Waschchuchi
laundry room (shared)
Ich ha hüt d Waschchuchi.
I have the laundry room today.
Pronounced: d VAHSH-khoo-khee (both ch guttural). Shared laundry rooms are standard in Swiss apartment buildings. Each tenant has assigned days/times. 'Wasch' + 'Chuchi' (wash + kitchen). Breaking the schedule is a serious social offense!
de Chäller
cellar / basement
D Velo stönd im Chäller.
The bikes are in the cellar.
Pronounced: deh KHEL-ler (ch guttural, ä as in 'bed'). Standard German: Keller. k→ch shift. Swiss apartments usually include a cellar storage space. 'Stönd' = stehen (stand/are located). Plural: 'Chäller'.
de Balkon
balcony
Mir hocked uf em Balkon.
We're sitting on the balcony.
Pronounced: deh bahl-KOHN. Same as Standard German. 'Hocked' = sitzen (sitting). Swiss apartments often have balconies. Grilling on the balcony is common but check house rules about smoke.
d Hüsornig
house rules
Lueg mol d Hüsornig, do staht alles drin.
Check the house rules, everything is in there.
Pronounced: d HEWS-or-nig (ü as 'ew'). Standard German: Hausordnung. Swiss apartment buildings have strict Hüsornig covering quiet hours (typically 10pm-7am), recycling, laundry, and cleaning duties.
d Rueh
quiet / peace
Ab zäni isch Nachtrueh.
After ten there's nighttime quiet.
Pronounced: d ROO-eh. Standard German: Ruhe. 'Nachtrueh' = Nachtruhe (nighttime quiet, 10pm-7am typically). Swiss noise rules are strict — no loud music, drilling, or laundry on Sundays!
genau
exactly / right
Genau, das han ich au dänkt.
Exactly, that's what I thought too.
Pronounced: geh-NOW (au as 'ow'). Swiss Germans use 'genau' very frequently as a conversation filler and agreement marker. 'Dänkt' = gedacht (thought). Often just 'Genau' alone as acknowledgment.
ebe / äbe
well / you see / just
Äbe, das isch s Problem.
Well, that's the problem.
Pronounced: EH-beh / EH-beh. One of the most characteristic Swiss German particles. Expresses resignation, confirmation, or explanation. 'Äbe nöd' = well, no / that's just not the case.
halt
just / simply (accepting particle)
Das isch halt so.
That's just how it is.
Pronounced: HAHLT. Indicates acceptance of something inevitable. Very Swiss attitude. 'Das isch halt d Schwiiz' = that's just Switzerland. Not translatable to one English word — it's a mindset.
oder
right? / or? (tag question)
Das isch guet, oder?
That's good, right?
Pronounced: OH-der. Used as a tag question at the end of statements. Very common in Swiss German conversation. Similar to 'gäll?' but slightly less dialectal. Also literally means 'or'.
gäll
right? / isn't it?
S Wätter isch schön, gäll?
The weather is nice, right?
Pronounced: GELL (ä as in 'bed'). Classic Swiss/South German tag question. More informal than 'oder'. Shows the speaker expects agreement. Very frequently used in everyday speech.
sicher
sure / of course / definitely
Chasch cho? — Sicher!
Can you come? — Of course!
Pronounced: ZIKH-er (ch guttural). Used as a strong affirmation. More emphatic than 'ja'. 'Sicher nöd!' = definitely not! Very common as a standalone response.
eifach
simply / just
Du muesch eifach fröge.
You just have to ask.
Pronounced: EYE-fakh (ei as 'eye', ch guttural). As adverb: 'simply/just'. As adjective: 'easy/simple'. 'Muesch' = musst (you must). Very commonly used to simplify advice or situations.
öppe
approximately / about
S chunnt öppe drüü Stund.
It takes about three hours.
Pronounced: UR-peh (ö like 'ur' in 'fur'). Standard German: etwa/ungefähr. 'Drüü' = drei (three). 'Stund' = Stunden (hours). Distinctly Swiss. Not to be confused with 'öpper' (someone) or 'öppis' (something).
öppis
something
Ich muess der öppis säge.
I have to tell you something.
Pronounced: UR-pis (ö like 'ur' in 'fur'). Standard German: etwas. 'Der' = dir (dative you). 'Säge' = sagen (to say/tell). Part of the öpp-family of Swiss German indefinite pronouns.
öpper
someone / somebody
Öpper hät aglüte.
Someone called.
Pronounced: UR-per (ö like 'ur' in 'fur'). Standard German: jemand. 'Aglüte' = angerufen (called on the phone). 'Hät' = hat. Negative: 'niemer' (nobody). Distinctly Swiss German.
niemer
nobody / no one
Niemer hät öppis gseit.
Nobody said anything.
Pronounced: NEE-mer. Standard German: niemand. 'Gseit' = gesagt (said). Double negative is NOT used in Swiss German: 'Niemer hät öppis gseit' (not 'niemer hät nüüt gseit').
nüüt
nothing
Da isch nüüt passiert.
Nothing happened.
Pronounced: NEWT (long ü as 'ew'). Standard German: nichts. 'Passiert' = passiert (happened). Very common: 'Nüüt Neus' = nichts Neues (nothing new). 'Nüüt los' = nichts los (nothing going on).
jetzt / jetz
now
Jetz isch gnueg!
That's enough now!
Pronounced: YETST. Standard German: jetzt. Often shortened to 'jetz'. 'Gnueg' = genug (enough). An expression of having had enough. Very commonly used temporal marker.
no
still / yet / more
Häsch no Zit?
Do you still have time?
Pronounced: NO. Standard German: noch. 'Zit' = Zeit (time). 'No' is one of the most frequently used words: 'no meh' (even more), 'no einisch' (once more), 'nomol' (again).
denn
then / well (question particle)
Was isch denn los?
What's going on then?
Pronounced: DEN. Question particle adding curiosity. 'Los' = happening/going on. 'Was isch denn das?' (What's that then?). Gives questions a more engaged, curious tone.
au
also / too
Ich chume au!
I'm coming too!
Pronounced: OW (like 'ow' in 'cow'). Standard German: auch. Very commonly used. 'Au' can also express pain: 'Au!' = Ouch! Context determines meaning.
Pronounced: no NEE. 'No' + 'nie' = noch nie (never yet). 'Gässe' = gegessen (eaten). Often used to express surprise: 'No nie?!' (Never?!). Past tense only.
de Abfall
garbage / waste
Muesch de Abfall trenni!
You have to separate the garbage!
Pronounced: deh AHP-fahl. Same as Standard German. 'Trenni' = trennen (separate). Swiss recycling is mandatory and taken very seriously. Trash bags (Kehrichtsäcke) must be purchased — they're taxed.
s Altglas
used glass (for recycling)
S Altglas chunnt in de Container.
Used glass goes in the container.
Pronounced: s AHLT-glahs. Glass must be sorted by color (green, brown, clear) and brought to public collection points. 'Container' = glass recycling container. No glass recycling on Sundays or at night!
de Chehrichtsack
official garbage bag
De Chehrichtsack choschtet zwee Franke.
The garbage bag costs two francs.
Pronounced: deh KHEH-rikh-zahk (both ch guttural). Standard German: Kehrichtsack. k→ch shift. In Switzerland, you MUST use official taxed garbage bags. Putting trash in regular bags is illegal and fined. 'Choschtet' = kostet (costs).
s Altpapier
waste paper (for recycling)
S Altpapier wird alli zwei Wuche abgholt.
Waste paper is collected every two weeks.
Pronounced: s AHLT-pah-PEER. Paper and cardboard collected separately, bundled with string. 'Alli zwei Wuche' = alle zwei Wochen (every two weeks). 'Abgholt' = abgeholt (collected). Check local schedule.
Schifahre
skiing
Im Winter gömer go Schifahre.
In winter we go skiing.
Pronounced: SHEE-fah-reh. Standard German: Skifahren. 'Schi' is the Swiss spelling. Skiing is deeply embedded in Swiss culture. Many Swiss learn as toddlers. Popular resorts: Zermatt, Verbier, Davos, Engelberg.
de Samichlaus
St. Nicholas (Dec 6th)
De Samichlaus chunnt am sächste Dezämber.
St. Nicholas comes on December 6th.
Pronounced: deh ZAH-mee-khlows (ch guttural, au as 'ow'). Swiss version of St. Nicholas. Comes with 'Schmutzli' (dark companion) on Dec 6th. Gives nuts, tangerines, and chocolate to children. 'Sächste' = sechste (sixth).
d Bundesfiir
National Day celebration
D Bundesfiir isch am Erste Auguscht.
The National Day celebration is on August 1st.
Pronounced: d BOON-des-feer. Official celebration on August 1st. Features speeches, lantern parades, bonfires, and fireworks. 'Fiir' = Feier (celebration). Many communities hold festivities.
s Rütli
Rütli meadow (founding site)
S Rütli isch de Geburtsort vo de Schwiiz.
The Rütli is the birthplace of Switzerland.
Pronounced: s REWT-lee (ü as 'ew'). Legendary meadow on Lake Lucerne where the Swiss Confederation was founded in 1291. 'Geburtsort' = birthplace. 'Vo de Schwiiz' = von der Schweiz (of Switzerland).
s Sächsilüüte
Sechseläuten (Zürich spring festival)
Am Sächsilüüte wird de Böögg verbrännt.
At Sechseläuten the Böögg is burned.
Pronounced: s SEX-ee-LEWT-eh (ä as in 'bed', ü as 'ew'). Zürich's spring festival (3rd Monday of April). A snowman figure (Böögg) stuffed with fireworks is burned — the faster it explodes, the better the summer. 'Verbrännt' = verbrannt (burned).
de Böögg
Böögg (snowman effigy at Sechseläuten)
De Böögg isch in 12 Minute explodiert!
The Böögg exploded in 12 minutes!
Pronounced: deh BURG (long ö like 'ur' in 'fur'). The snowman figure burned at Sechseläuten. Stuffed with fireworks, placed on a pyre. If the head explodes quickly (under 20 min), summer will be good. A Zürich tradition.
de Räbeliechtli-Umzug
turnip lantern parade
D Chind laufed mit Räbeliechtli durs Quartier.
The children walk through the neighborhood with turnip lanterns.
Pronounced: deh REH-beh-LYEKHT-lee OOM-tsoog. November tradition where children carve lanterns from turnips (Räbe) and parade through the streets. 'Durs' = durch das (through the). 'Quartier' = neighborhood.
s Hornusse
Hornussen (Swiss team sport)
Hornusse isch en typisch Schwiizerische Sport.
Hornussen is a typically Swiss sport.
Pronounced: s hor-NOOS-seh. Traditional Swiss team sport. One team launches a puck (Nouss/Hornuss) with a flexible whip, the other team catches it with large rackets (Schindel). 'Schwiizerisch' = schweizerisch.
s Fondue-Set
fondue set (pot and forks)
Mir händ es neus Fondue-Set übercho.
We got a new fondue set.
Pronounced: s fon-DEW SET. Essential Swiss kitchen equipment: Caquelon (pot), Réchaud (burner), and long forks. 'Übercho' = bekommen/erhalten (received). Many Swiss households own at least one set.
en Schwiizer
a Swiss person (male)
Er isch en Schwiizer, si isch e Schwiizerin.
He's Swiss (male), she's Swiss (female).
Pronounced: en SHVEET-ser (long 'i'). Standard German: Schweizer/Schweizerin. 'Schwiizer' with long 'ii'. The identity is complex: Swiss first, then cantonal (Zürcher, Berner, etc.), then linguistic region.
s Quartier
neighborhood / district
Ich wohne im Quartier Wiedikon.
I live in the Wiedikon district.
Pronounced: s kvar-TEER. Standard German: Viertel/Stadtteil. Swiss German uses the French-derived 'Quartier'. Zürich has 12 Kreise (districts) subdivided into Quartiere. Important for identity.
zuezügeln / zügle
to move (house)
Mir zügled nöchscht Monet.
We're moving next month.
Pronounced: TSOO-eh-TSEW-geln / TSEW-gleh (ü as 'ew'). Standard German: umziehen. 'Zügle' = umziehen (to move). 'Nöchscht Monet' = nächsten Monat (next month). Moving day is typically the 1st or 15th of the month.
s TWINT
TWINT (Swiss mobile payment app)
Chan ich mit TWINT zahle?
Can I pay with TWINT?
Pronounced: s TVINT. Swiss mobile payment app, linked to bank accounts. Widely accepted at shops, restaurants, markets, and even for person-to-person payments. Very popular in Switzerland.
de Röstigrabe
Rösti divide (cultural/linguistic border)
De Röstigrabe isch d Gränze zwüsche dütsch und wälsch.
The Rösti divide is the border between German and French Switzerland.
Pronounced: deh RURSH-tee-GRAH-beh (ö like 'ur'). The cultural divide between German-speaking and French-speaking Switzerland. Named after Rösti (German Swiss food). 'Gränze' = Grenze (border). 'Wälsch' = French-speaking (Swiss).
wälsch
French-speaking (Swiss)
D Wälschschwiiz isch au schön.
French-speaking Switzerland is also beautiful.
Pronounced: VELSH (ä as in 'bed'). 'Wälsch' = Welsch (French-speaking). 'Wälschschwiiz' = Romandie (French Switzerland). Not pejorative. 'Wälsch' can also loosely mean Italian or generally 'Romance language-speaking'.
d Znacht-Iladig
dinner invitation
Mir händ e Znacht-Iladig bi de Nachbere.
We have a dinner invitation at the neighbors'.
Pronounced: d ts-NAKHT EE-lah-dig. 'Iladig' = Einladung (invitation). 'Nachbere' = Nachbarn (neighbors). Swiss etiquette: bring a gift (wine, flowers, chocolate). Be punctual! Arriving late is rude.
pünktlich
punctual / on time
In de Schwiiz muesch pünktlich sii.
In Switzerland you have to be punctual.
Pronounced: PEWNKT-likh (ü as 'ew', ch guttural). Same as Standard German. Punctuality is a core Swiss value. For social events: arrive within 5 minutes of the stated time. For work/appointments: be early.
de Grüezi-Bag
greeting bag (playful term for Swiss formality)
Grüezi! — Du bisch en richtige Grüezi-Bag!
Hello! — You're a real formal greeter!
Pronounced: deh GREW-etsi BAHG. Humorous/affectionate term for someone very formal in their greetings. Swiss people generally greet everyone — in elevators, shops, on hiking trails. Not greeting is considered rude.
zügeln
to move (apartment/house)
Mir händ letschti Wuche züglet.
We moved last week.
Pronounced: TSEW-geln (ü as 'ew'). Standard German: umziehen. 'Letschti Wuche' = letzte Woche (last week). 'Züglet' = past participle. Swiss moving dates are typically standardized (March/September).
de Schriiner
carpenter / joiner
De Schriiner chunnt morn d Tüür flicke.
The carpenter is coming tomorrow to fix the door.
Pronounced: deh SHREE-ner. Standard German: Schreiner/Tischler. 'Flicke' = reparieren (to repair/fix). 'D Tüür' = die Tür (the door). Swiss craftspeople (Handwerker) are skilled but expensive.
liisli
quietly / softly
Red liisli, s Chind schlaaft.
Speak quietly, the child is sleeping.
Pronounced: LEES-lee (long 'i'). Diminutive adverb from 'liis' (quiet/soft). The -li suffix even works on adverbs in Swiss German! Standard German: leise. 'Red' = rede (speak, imperative).
gschwind
quickly / fast
Chum gschwind, mir sind z spaat!
Come quickly, we're late!
Pronounced: g-SHVIND. Standard German: geschwind/schnell. 'Z spaat' = zu spät (too late). 'Chum' = komm (come, imperative). An older German word that survives in Swiss German.
langsam
slowly
Red langsam, ich bi am lerne.
Speak slowly, I'm learning.
Pronounced: LAHNG-zahm. Same as Standard German. 'Bi am lerne' = bin am lernen (am learning). This 'am + infinitive' progressive form is used in Swiss German for ongoing actions.
s Määrt-Gäldli
pocket money / allowance
S Chind überchunnt Määrt-Gäldli.
The child gets pocket money.
Pronounced: s MAIRT-GELD-lee (ä as in 'air'). 'Määrt' = Markt. 'Gäldli' = Geld + -li (little money). 'Überchunnt' = bekommt (receives). Swiss children traditionally receive weekly pocket money. Also called 'Sackgäld'.
s Biergärtli
beer garden
Im Summer hocked mir im Biergärtli.
In summer we sit in the beer garden.
Pronounced: s BEER-gairt-lee (ä as 'air'). Diminutive of 'Biergarten'. Swiss beer gardens are popular in summer. 'Hocked' = sitzen (sit). Less common than in Germany but growing in popularity.
de Stammtisch
regulars' table (pub)
Am Dunschtig isch Stammtisch in de Beiz.
On Thursday is the regulars' gathering at the pub.
Pronounced: deh SHTAHM-tish. A reserved table at a pub for regular patrons. A social institution. 'Dunschtig' = Donnerstag (Thursday). Swiss social life often centers around regular weekly meetups.
aluege
to look at / to check out
Chum, mir lueged eus das mol a.
Come, let's check that out.
Pronounced: AH-loo-eh-geh. Separable verb: 'a-luege' (an-schauen). 'Eus' = uns (ourselves). 'Mol' = mal (once). 'Lueged eus ... a' = schauen uns ... an (look at). Very commonly used.
abmache
to agree on / to arrange
Mir händ abgmacht, dass mir eus am Friitig träffed.
We agreed to meet on Friday.
Pronounced: AHP-mahkh-eh. Standard German: abmachen/vereinbaren. 'Abgmacht' = abgemacht (agreed). 'Friitig' = Freitag (Friday). Very common: 'Abgmacht?' = Deal?/Agreed?
aaruefe
to call (phone)
Ich ruefe di spööter aa.
I'll call you later.
Pronounced: AH-roo-eh-feh. Standard German: anrufen. 'Aa' = an. 'Di' = dich (you). 'Spööter' = später (later). Separable: 'Ich ruefe aa' (I call). Past: 'Ich ha aagruefe' (I called).
d SMS
text message
Schick mer e SMS!
Send me a text!
Pronounced: d es-em-ES. Swiss German still uses 'SMS' for text messages (also 'Nachricht' or 'Message'). 'Schick' = schick/sende (send, imperative). WhatsApp is now more common but 'SMS' persists in speech.
s WhatsApp
WhatsApp (messaging)
Ich schicke der das per WhatsApp.
I'll send you that via WhatsApp.
Pronounced: s VOTS-ep. WhatsApp is the dominant messaging platform in Switzerland. 'Per' = via. 'Der' = dir (to you). Often used as a verb: 'Ich whatsappe der' (I'll WhatsApp you).
de Schueh
shoe
Zieh d Schueh us bim Iitritt!
Take off your shoes when entering!
Pronounced: deh SHOO. Standard German: Schuh. 'Zieh us' = zieh aus (take off). 'Bim Iitritt' = beim Eintritt (upon entering). In Swiss homes, shoes are ALWAYS removed at the door. Very important custom!
d Finke
slippers / house shoes
Wotsch Finke? — Ja, merci.
Do you want slippers? — Yes, thanks.
Pronounced: d FINK-eh. Uniquely Swiss German word for slippers/house shoes. Standard German: Hausschuhe/Pantoffeln. Hosts often offer Finke to guests (since outdoor shoes are removed).
Ängeliziitig
witching hour / fussy time (for babies)
Am Oobe hät s Chind Ängeliziitig.
In the evening the baby has its fussy time.
Pronounced: ENG-eh-lee-TSEE-tig. 'Ängeli' = little angel + 'Ziitig' = Zeit (time). The period (usually late afternoon/evening) when babies are fussy. A charming Swiss German expression. No Standard German equivalent.
de Bünzli
uptight Swiss person / petty bourgeois
Sei nöd so en Bünzli!
Don't be such a stick-in-the-mud!
Pronounced: deh BEWNTS-lee (ü as 'ew'). A Swiss archetype: overly rule-following, complaining about noise, obsessed with order. Self-deprecating humor. 'Sei nöd so' = sei nicht so (don't be such). Both affectionate and critical.
s Nöchberland
neighboring country
D Schwiiz hät vier Nöchberländer.
Switzerland has four neighboring countries.
Pronounced: s NURKH-ber-lahnd (ö like 'ur', ch guttural). 'Nöchber' = Nachbar (neighbor). Switzerland borders Germany, France, Italy, and Austria (plus tiny Liechtenstein). 'Länder' = countries. Each border brings cultural influence.
d Chranke-Kasse
health insurance
D Chranke-Kasse isch obligatorisch.
Health insurance is mandatory.
Pronounced: d KHRAHNG-keh KAHS-seh (ch guttural). Standard German: Krankenkasse. Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland. Premiums vary by canton and plan. 'Obligatorisch' = mandatory/compulsory. Average ~350-400 CHF/month.
de Franchise
deductible (health insurance)
Mini Franchise isch 2500 Franke.
My deductible is 2500 francs.
Pronounced: deh frahn-SHEEZ (French origin). The annual deductible on Swiss health insurance. Higher franchise = lower monthly premiums. Options: 300 to 2500 CHF. 'Mini' = meine (my). Important for expats to understand.
de Stüüre
taxes
D Stüüre sind je nach Kanton anders.
Taxes vary depending on the canton.
Pronounced: deh SHTEW-reh (long ü as 'ew'). Standard German: Steuern. Tax rates vary significantly between cantons and municipalities. Swiss residents file an annual tax declaration. 'Je nach' = depending on.
d Uusländerbewillig
residence permit
Häsch dini Uusländerbewillig scho?
Do you have your residence permit yet?
Pronounced: d OOSS-len-der-beh-VIL-ig. Standard German: Ausländerbewilligung. Types: B (residence), C (permanent), L (short-term). 'Dini' = deine (your). Essential for foreign workers in Switzerland.
d AHV
Swiss pension system (1st pillar)
D AHV wird vom Lohn abzoge.
AHV is deducted from the salary.
Pronounced: d ah-hah-FOW. Alters- und Hinterlassenenversicherung — the state pension. Deducted from salary. Part of Switzerland's 3-pillar pension system. 'Abzoge' = abgezogen (deducted).
d Schuelferrie
school holidays
D Schuelferrie sind vo Kanton zu Kanton verschide.
School holidays differ from canton to canton.
Pronounced: d SHOOL-feh-ree-eh. 'Schuel' = Schule. 'Ferrie' = Ferien. Swiss school holidays are set by each canton, so they vary. 'Verschide' = verschieden (different). Summer holidays: ~5 weeks.
de Fiirabigbier
after-work beer
Chum, mir gönd go es Fiiraabigbier trinke.
Come, let's go have an after-work beer.
Pronounced: deh FEER-ah-big-beer. 'Fiiraabig' + 'Bier'. The ritual after-work beer. Often at a Beiz or outdoor terrace. 'Gönd go trinke' = gehen trinken (go to drink). A valued Swiss tradition.
s Schnitzel
schnitzel
Es Schnitzel mit Pommes, bitte.
A schnitzel with fries, please.
Pronounced: s SHNIT-sel. Same as Standard German. A classic Swiss restaurant dish. Often served with 'Pommes' (fries) or 'Nüdeli' (noodles). Zürich-style: 'Züri-Gschnetzeltes' (sliced veal in cream sauce).
s Züri-Gschnetzeltes
Zürich-style sliced veal
S Züri-Gschnetzeltes isch en Klassiker.
Zürich-style sliced veal is a classic.
Pronounced: s TSEW-ree g-SHNET-sel-tes (ü as 'ew'). Zürich's signature dish: sliced veal in cream and mushroom sauce, served with Rösti. 'Klassiker' = classic. Found in traditional restaurants ('Beize'). A must-try in Zürich.
d Bratwurscht
bratwurst / sausage
E Bratwurscht mit Brot, bitte.
A bratwurst with bread, please.
Pronounced: d BRAHT-voorsht. Standard German: Bratwurst. The St. Gallen Bratwurst is legendary (eaten without mustard!). In Zürich, a classic 'Wurschtsalat' (sausage salad) is popular. 'Brot' = bread.
s Birchemüesli
Bircher muesli (original recipe)
S Birchemüesli hät de Bircher-Benner erfunde.
Bircher muesli was invented by Bircher-Benner.
Pronounced: s BIR-kheh-MEWS-lee (ch guttural, ü as 'ew'). The original Swiss muesli recipe by Dr. Maximilian Bircher-Benner (1900). Oats soaked in milk/yogurt with apple, lemon juice, and nuts. 'Erfunde' = erfunden (invented).
s Schoggi
chocolate
Schwiizerisch Schoggi isch d bescht!
Swiss chocolate is the best!
Pronounced: s SHOG-ee. Standard German: Schokolade. 'Schoggi' is the beloved Swiss abbreviation. Famous brands: Lindt, Toblerone, Sprüngli, Cailler. 'D bescht' = die beste (the best, feminine).
de Chüechli
little cake / pastry
D Luxemburgerli sind mini Liebligs-Chüechli.
Luxemburgerli are my favorite little pastries.
Pronounced: deh KHEWKH-lee (both ch guttural, ü as 'ew'). Diminutive of 'Chuche' (Kuchen, cake). 'Luxemburgerli' are famous Sprüngli macarons. 'Liebligs' = Lieblings (favorite). Swiss bakeries (Bäckereie/Konditoreie) are excellent.
de Nüssli-Salat
lamb's lettuce / corn salad
En Nüssli-Salat als Vorspiis, bitte.
A lamb's lettuce salad as starter, please.
Pronounced: deh NEWS-lee zah-LAHT (ü as 'ew'). Also called 'Feldsalat' in Standard German. 'Nüssli' = little nut (the shape of the leaves). 'Vorspiis' = Vorspeise (starter/appetizer). Very common in Swiss restaurants.
de Kafi Lutz
coffee with schnapps
Am Sunntig trinkt de Grossvatter en Kafi Lutz.
On Sunday, grandpa drinks a coffee with schnapps.
Pronounced: deh KAH-fee LOOTS. Coffee with a shot of schnapps (usually Kirsch or Pflümli). A traditional Swiss drink. 'Grossvatter' = Großvater (grandfather). 'Lutz' — origin debated. Also: 'Kafi Schnaps'.
d Baadi-Charte
swimming pool membership card
Ich ha e Baadi-Charte fürs ganze Jahr.
I have a pool membership card for the whole year.
Pronounced: d BAH-dee KHAR-teh (ch guttural). 'Baadi' = Badi variant spelling. 'Charte' = Karte (card). Annual pool passes are popular — families use them all summer. 'Fürs ganze Jahr' = for the whole year.
de Wanderweg
hiking trail
De Wanderweg isch guet markiert.
The hiking trail is well marked.
Pronounced: deh VAHN-der-veg. Same as Standard German. Swiss hiking trails are marked with yellow signs (easy), white-red-white (mountain), and white-blue-white (alpine). 'Markiert' = marked. 65,000 km of trails!
d Berghütte
mountain hut / refuge
Mir übernachted in ere Berghütte.
We're staying overnight in a mountain hut.
Pronounced: d BAIRG-hewt-teh (ü as 'ew'). Alpine huts run by the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC). 'Übernachted' = übernachten (stay overnight). 'In ere' = in einer (in a). Offer beds, food, and stunning views. Book ahead!
de Grillplatz
barbecue area / grill spot
Am See gits en Grillplatz.
By the lake there's a barbecue area.
Pronounced: deh GRILL-plahts. Switzerland has public barbecue spots in parks and by lakes. Free to use. 'Am See' = am See (by the lake). Bring your own Cervelat and bread! Leave the spot clean.
de Velohelm
bike helmet
Vergiss de Velohelm nöd!
Don't forget the bike helmet!
Pronounced: deh VEH-lo-helm. 'Velo' + 'Helm'. Not mandatory for adults in Switzerland (unlike e-bikes over 25 km/h) but recommended. 'Vergiss nöd' = vergiss nicht (don't forget).
d Tageskarte
day pass (transport)
E Tageskarte isch günstiger als Einzelbillett.
A day pass is cheaper than single tickets.
Pronounced: d TAH-ges-kar-teh. Day pass for unlimited travel in a zone. 'Günstiger' = cheaper. 'Einzelbillett' = single ticket. Also: 'Gemeinde-Tageskarte' — discounted day passes sold by municipalities.
de Velostriife
bike lane
Bliib uf em Velostriife!
Stay in the bike lane!
Pronounced: deh VEH-lo-SHTREE-feh. 'Velo' + 'Striife' (Streifen, stripe). Painted bike lanes on roads. 'Bliib' = bleib (stay, imperative). 'Uf em' = auf dem (on the). Zürich is expanding its bike infrastructure.
s E-Bike
electric bicycle
Immer meh Lüüt fahred E-Bike.
More and more people are riding e-bikes.
Pronounced: s EE-byke. E-bikes are extremely popular in Switzerland, especially for commuting and hills. 'Immer meh' = immer mehr (more and more). 'Fahred' = fahren (they ride). Helmet required above 25 km/h.
blöterle
to splash around / paddle
D Chind blöterled im Wasser.
The children are splashing in the water.
Pronounced: BLUR-ter-leh (ö like 'ur' in 'fur'). Uniquely Swiss German. Describes playful splashing in water. No Standard German equivalent. 'Im Wasser' = im Wasser (in the water). Very common in summer at the Badi or lake.
sünnele
to sunbathe
Mir gönd id Badi go sünnele.
We're going to the pool to sunbathe.
Pronounced: ZEWN-neh-leh (ü as 'ew'). Uniquely Swiss German. From 'Sunne' (sun) + '-ele' suffix (frequentative). Standard German: sich sonnen/sonnenbaden. Very popular activity at Swiss Badis in summer.
grilliere
to barbecue / to grill
Am Wuchenänd grilliere mir im Garte.
On the weekend we barbecue in the garden.
Pronounced: gril-LEER-eh. Standard German: grillen. Swiss German adds '-iere' suffix (French influence). 'Im Garte' = im Garten (in the garden). Swiss grilling: Cervelat, Bratwurst, Steak.
d Chilbi
fair / funfair / church festival
D Chilbi isch nöchscht Wuche!
The fair is next week!
Pronounced: d KHIL-bee (ch guttural). From 'Kirchweih' (church consecration). Local fairs with rides, food stands, and games. 'Nöchscht Wuche' = nächste Woche (next week). Each village has its annual Chilbi.
de Flohmi
flea market
Am Samschtig isch Flohmi am Bürkliplatz.
On Saturday there's a flea market at Bürkliplatz.
Pronounced: deh FLOH-mee. Short for 'Flohmarkt'. Bürkliplatz flea market is Zürich's largest (May-November). 'Am Samschtig' = am Samstag. Great for secondhand finds and Trödel (bric-a-brac).
de Samschtig
Saturday
Am Samschtig schlafe ich lang.
On Saturday I sleep in.
Pronounced: deh ZAHM-shtig. Standard German: Samstag. Swiss German weekday names: Mäntig, Ziischtig, Mittwuch, Dunschtig, Friitig, Samschtig, Sunntig. 'Lang schlafe' = ausschlafen (to sleep in).
de Sunntig
Sunday
Am Sunntig sind d Läde zue.
On Sunday the shops are closed.
Pronounced: deh ZOON-tig. 'Sunntig' = Sonntag. 'Zue' = zu/geschlossen (closed). Swiss Sunday closing laws are strict — almost all shops close. Only train station shops, gas stations, and some tourist areas stay open.
de Mäntig
Monday
Am Mäntig gaht s wider los.
On Monday it starts again.
Pronounced: deh MEN-tig (ä as in 'bed'). Standard German: Montag. 'Wider' = wieder (again). 'Los gaht' = losgeht (starts/begins). Swiss German day names have unique spellings but are easily recognizable.
de Ziischtig
Tuesday
Am Ziischtig han ich Dütschkurs.
On Tuesday I have German class.
Pronounced: deh TSEESH-tig. Standard German: Dienstag. 'Dütschkurs' = Deutschkurs (German class). Many expats take Swiss German or Standard German courses. 'Han ich' = habe ich (I have).
de Dunschtig
Thursday
Am Dunschtig isch Märt in de Altstadt.
On Thursday there's a market in the old town.
Pronounced: deh DOON-shtig. Standard German: Donnerstag. 'Altstadt' = old town. Many Swiss cities have weekly markets on specific days. 'Isch' = ist (is/there is).
de Friitig
Friday
Am Friitig gömer früener hei.
On Friday we go home earlier.
Pronounced: deh FREE-tig. Standard German: Freitag. 'Früener' = früher (earlier). 'Hei' = heim/nach Hause (home). Some Swiss companies allow early Friday finishes.
de Kanton
canton (Swiss state)
D Schwiiz hät 26 Kantön.
Switzerland has 26 cantons.
Pronounced: deh kahn-TOHN. Switzerland's federal states. Each canton has its own constitution, government, and laws. 'Kantön' = plural. Zurich is both a city and a canton. Cantons have significant autonomy.
s Dorf
village
Ich wohne in emene chline Dorf.
I live in a small village.
Pronounced: s DORF. Same as Standard German. 'In emene' = in einem (in a). 'Chline' = kleinen (small). Many Swiss live in villages and commute to cities. Village life is valued.
d Gmeind
municipality / commune
D Gmeind bestimmt d Stüüre.
The municipality determines the taxes.
Pronounced: d g-MYND (ei as 'eye'). Standard German: Gemeinde. Swiss municipalities have significant power, including tax rates. 'Bestimmt' = determines. There are about 2,100 Gemeinden in Switzerland.
aamelded
registered (at municipality)
Bisch scho bi de Gmeind aamelded?
Are you already registered with the municipality?
Pronounced: AH-mel-det. Standard German: angemeldet. 'Bi de Gmeind' = bei der Gemeinde. Mandatory registration within 14 days of moving. Required for residence permit and tax purposes.
s Hallenbad
indoor swimming pool
Im Winter gömer is Hallenbad.
In winter we go to the indoor pool.
Pronounced: s HAHL-len-bahd. Same as Standard German. 'Is' = ins (into the). Indoor pools operate year-round. Many municipalities have both a Hallenbad and a Badi (outdoor pool).
de Znüni-Sack
snack bag (for school)
Häsch de Znüni-Sack ipackt?
Did you pack the snack bag?
Pronounced: deh ts-NEW-nee ZAHK. 'Znüni' + 'Sack'. Swiss children bring a Znüni to school daily (fruit, bread, cheese). 'Ipackt' = eingepackt (packed). Parents take the Znüni very seriously!
zmittag
at noon / lunch (time)
Zmittag ässe mir zäme.
At noon we eat together.
Pronounced: ts-MIT-tahg. 'Zmittag' = zu Mittag (at noon/lunch). 'Zäme' = zusammen (together). In Swiss schools, children often go home for lunch. 'S Zmittag' = das Mittagessen (lunch meal).
s Dessert
dessert
Nämed er no es Dessert?
Would you like a dessert?
Pronounced: s deh-SAIR (French origin). Same as Standard German but with French pronunciation (day-SAIR). 'Nämed er' = nehmen Sie (formal, would you take). 'No' = noch (still/also). Common Swiss desserts: Meringue, Tiramisù, Coupe.
d Glacé
ice cream (variant spelling)
E Chugele Glacé, bitte.
One scoop of ice cream, please.
Pronounced: d GLAHS (French origin, rhymes with 'class'). Also spelled 'Glace'. 'E Chugele' = eine Kugel (one scoop). 'Chugele' with k→ch shift. Ice cream scoops counted as 'Chugele' (balls). A summer staple.
s Trinkwasser
drinking water
S Trinkwasser us em Hahne isch tip top.
The tap drinking water is excellent.
Pronounced: s TRINK-vahs-ser. Same as Standard German. 'Us em Hahne' = aus dem Hahn (from the tap). Swiss tap water comes from lakes and springs and is among the world's best. Free at public fountains too!
de Gschänk
gift / present
Bruuchsch no es Gschänk für d Iladig?
Do you still need a gift for the invitation?
Pronounced: deh g-SHENK (ä as in 'bed'). Standard German: Geschenk. When invited to a Swiss home, always bring a Gschänk: wine, flowers, or chocolate. 'Bruuchsch no' = brauchst du noch (do you still need). Important etiquette!
de Abfallkalender
waste collection calendar
Lueg im Abfallkalender, wenn s Grüenabfuehr isch.
Check the waste calendar for when green waste pickup is.
Pronounced: deh AHP-fahl-kah-LEN-der. Every Swiss municipality publishes an annual waste collection calendar. 'Grüenabfuehr' = Grünabfuhr (green waste collection). Recycling schedules are taken very seriously.
s Sonntig-Gsetz
Sunday law / Sunday rest rules
S Sonntig-Gsetz verbietet Lärm am Sunntig.
The Sunday law prohibits noise on Sunday.
Pronounced: s ZONN-tig g-ZETS. 'Gsetz' = Gesetz (law). No mowing, drilling, or loud activities on Sundays. Even laundry may be restricted. 'Verbietet' = verbietet (prohibits). 'Lärm' = noise. Taken very seriously!