German Conversation · Level 108
57 words
German word
Kerl
Pronunciation
IPA/kɛɐ̯l/
Meaning
- masculine nounguy
Example
Der Kerl hat mir geholfen.
The guy helped me.
More examples
Ein richtiger Kerl hilft, ohne zu zögern.
A real guy helps without hesitation.
Core concept
A male person viewed as a recognizable, familiar character rather than as a formal individual.
Common phrases
ein richtiger Kerl
a real guy
was für ein Kerl
what a guy
ein zäher Kerl
a tough guy
Similar words
Mann: A neutral term for an adult male.
Typ: A casual spoken term for a person, viewed in a general way.
Herr: A polite form of address for a man, often used before his surname.
Junge: A term for a boy or young man.
Definition in German
Locker gebräuchlich für einen Mann; kann freundschaftlich oder spöttisch klingen.
Word origin
Kerl comes from Middle High German kerl and is related to the Germanic word for a man or fellow.
Usage tips
- Kerl is masculine and colloquial, so formal contexts usually favor Mann, Herr, or the person's name.