noun
die Lästerei, -en
pletykálás
The German word "Lästerei" is a noun meaning gossiping, slander, or backbiting.
- It is derived from the verb "lästern", which means to blaspheme, slander, or speak ill of someone.
- The suffix "-ei" turns it into a noun indicating the act or practice of something.
Similar words:
- Klatsch – gossip (often less malicious)
- Tratschen – chit-chat, gossip (informal)
- Verleumdung – defamation, slander (more formal/legal)
- Rufschädigung – damaging reputation (legal term)
Difference:
- Lästerei specifically conveys malicious or hurtful gossip about others.
- Klatsch and Tratschen can be light-hearted gossip without serious harm.
- Verleumdung and Rufschädigung are formal/legal terms focused on slander and reputation damage, often with legal consequences.
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Examples
Die Lästerei macht die Stimmung im Büro schlecht.noun
A pletykálás rossz hangulatot kelt az irodában.
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