Tackling the faux pas of the German language

From "döner murders" to "moors' heads," German is full of discriminatory terms. Each year, a jury of prominent linguists announces the "Faux Pas Word of the Year" - but there is no shortage to choose from. (15.01.2013) 

Kids' classics get a politically correct makeover

A German publisher has plans to rerelease a classic children's book - without the racist words found in the original. Experts are split on whether the past should be cleaned up, or preserved so it can be discussed. (11.01.2013) 

The 'du/Sie' dilemma in German

For those learning German, choosing between the informal "du" and the formal "Sie" to address someone can be tricky. But even for native German speakers, it's getting harder to decide - after all, language changes. (05.01.2013) 

Latin returns from the dead in German schools

For years, Latin has barely had a pulse as a subject of serious study. Now, a student-led renaissance is underway in Germany, with many schools playing catch-up. The trend, however, has not spread to other countries. (18.09.2012) 

EU targets jargon with clear writing campaign

The European Union can seem impenetrable to outsiders. But in the past few years, the EU has taken a number of active steps to improve transparency. They’ve started by tackling the issue of jargon-heavy language. (18.09.2012) 

Refugees learn German with Goethe on stage

Young refugees are learning German with the classics. Performing modified and modernized versions of works by Goethe gives them the courage and confidence they need to participate in a new, foreign society. (03.09.2012) 

Southern Europeans flock to German classes

German is often considered a difficult language with very confusing rules of grammar. But the European debt crisis seems to help German to some sort of a renaissance. Language courses are in high demand. (19.08.2012) 

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