Hello! Hallo und Willkommen!
Starting something new is always exciting but can also be challenging. After four years of teaching German at various language schools, I have now taken the leap to start my own online language school. My goal is to create a space where learners feel supported, inspired, and motivated to improve their German skills. That’s why I created this blog as well. When I learn a language, I love to learn idiomatic expressions. So maybe you too have been looking for a German idiom blog. Well, look no further! On this blog, I will explain a German idiom each month to deepen your language learning. If you want to read a little more about me, check out our About page. I’m thrilled to share this journey with you!
German Idiom of the Month: Why “Aller Anfang ist schwer” Sounds Like a Complaint but Is Actually a Motivation
If you’ve ever felt frustrated when starting to learn a new language, you are not alone! In German, we have a saying: “Aller Anfang ist schwer”, which translates to “Every beginning is difficult.” This idiom perfectly captures the struggle that comes with starting something new, whether it’s learning a new language, moving to a new country, or beginning a new job.
The German phrase “Aller Anfang ist schwer” translates to “All beginnings are difficult.” Let’s break down each word to fully understand its meaning and grammar:
- Aller is the genitive plural form of alle (meaning “all”). In this context, it implies “of all things”. The noun it modifies (Dinge, meaning “things”) is omitted, but understood from context. This is a common construction in German, where implied words don’t need to be repeated if they’re understood by the listener or reader.
- Anfang means “beginning”. It is a masculine noun, with the article der Anfang. In this sentence, it serves as the subject. It’s worth noting that in German, all nouns are capitalized, regardless of their placement in the sentence.
- ist is the 3rd person singular form of the verb sein, which means “to be”. It matches the subject Anfang, and translates simply as “is”.
- schwer is an adjective meaning “difficult”. It describes the noun Anfang, giving us the sense that starting something is hard or challenging.
Now, it might sound like a complaint, someone frustrated by a difficult beginning might utter. However, it is actually meant in a motivational way. If your German speaking friend taps you on the shoulder saying “Aller Anfang ist schwer”, they might just want to remind you that your are not alone. Literally, all of us are experiencing it.
Furthermore, “Aller Anfang ist schwer” can remind us that the beginning is a step in our journey. The steps to come after will be easier as we adapt to the challenges we face and get more experienced. So, keep on going, it will be worth it!
A great way to overcome the difficulties of a new beginning is to stay consistent and celebrate small achievements — whether it’s understanding a first German conversation or having a first small talk with your neighbour or simply looking at an object around you and the German word comes to mind.
Cultural Events in Switzerland in Spring
Sechseläuten (April 28, Zurich)
A traditional spring festival where the “Böögg” (snowman figure) is burned to predict how good the summer will be. But it’s not just about the burning of the Böögg. You really shouldn’t miss the historically costumed guild members marching throught the city. There will be lots of flowers, horses and music too! Find more information here.
