![]() ![]() There are also a large number of indigenous words, many of which differ regionally. There are many French and a few Italian loan words, so basic knowledge of French is a boon. Many sounds are produced in the rear of the throat. The pronunciation is similar to that of Dutch. ![]() The 'ch' pronunciation is well known beyond the borders of the country. The syntax is freer than in standard German, and sometimes subject to small regional variations. Relative clauses are simplified using a simple word 'wo'. ![]() There is no genitive cause in Swiss German, and the accusative and nominative case look the same. For example, there are only three tenses: present simple, present perfect, and conditional. Knowing the local language is a key to these treasures.Ĭompared to standard German, Swiss German comes with a radically simplified grammar. There is a great deal of local music, traditional folk songs, and poetry in Swiss German. Just like there are local customs, there are local variations. Swiss German is closely linked to cultural traditions in the country. The main dialects are of the north west (Basel), the western region, the area around Berne, the area around Fribourg, the Valais, the Ticino, central Switzerland (Lucerne), north east and Liechtenstein, as well as around Zurich. There are regional variations which are very distinct from each other. Switzerland, Liechtenstein, along the borders in Austria and Germany. Switzerland, and then only the German speaking part. Learn to pronounce the notorious 'Chuchichäschtli' and your hosts in Switzerland will be impressed. Swiss German is not a common language to learn, it's probably more exotic than many others. English is widely spoken in Switzerland, and many people are keen to show off their skills. The different dialects in different regions may be offputting at first, but it's the only way to dive deeply into the culture. Everyone learns standard German at school, although not everyone is comfortable speaking it. Useful only in the German speaking part of Switzerland. There are a relatively large number of French loan word. After a while, learners tend to find some patterns in how the pronunciation varies, but indigenous words are more difficult to learn. As a learner of German, the Swiss dialects may be surprisingly different, maybe initially completely incomprehensible. There are a variation of Alemannic dialects used in the German speaking part. In case this if of interest, here's a beginning for Swiss German.Ĭontrary to common understanding, there is not one single Swiss German dialect. Message 1 of 423 March 2005 at 4:31am | IP Logged ![]()
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