What’s up with the «li» in Switzerland? An explanation for the Swiss German diminutive

What’s up with the «li» in Switzerland? An explanation for the Swiss German diminutive

Swiss German is characterized by the frequent use of the diminutive. This means that nouns are usually “reduced in size” by adding the suffix “li” to them. The counterpart in High German is the ending “chen/lein”. If you don’t speak

Share this:

With those Swiss German words you will survive

With those Swiss German words you will survive

In Switzerland we speak Swiss German. Although it comes from High German, it is a dialect of its own. A German from Stuttgart may still understand us, but a German from Hamburg has no chance. Although High German is his

Share this:

Arriving in Switzerland

Arriving in Switzerland

How beautiful is Switzerland? As one of the most beautiful regions on this planet, Switzerland offers more than many might realize. From the majestic peaks of the Alps, to the numerous lakes and streams that provide 6% of Europe with

Share this:

Moving from the US to Switzerland

Moving from the US to Switzerland

If you are planning on moving to Switzerland from the United States, you will want to be well prepared. It is very important that you take the time to learn about the area and the culture, the language, and the

Share this:

Studying in Switzerland

Studying in Switzerland

Depending on what you plan on studying, studying abroad can provide you with an education and also an amazing experience. There are a number of different programs in Switzerland that allow you to study abroad on behalf of some of

Share this:

What is the official language of Switzerland?

What is the official language of Switzerland?

Due to its high quality of life and above-average wages, Switzerland is considered to be an attractive location. This is why many people aspire to relocate to this small Alpine country. In June 2004, the legal framework of the Swiss

Share this:

Why is Swiss German a dialect and not a language of its own?

Why is Swiss German a dialect and not a language of its own?

If you ask why Swiss German is not a language of its own, but rather ‘mere’ a dialect, you are also asking about the difference between what is termed a language and what is a dialect. This requires some clarification.

Share this:

Is speaking Standard Swiss German enough to live in Switzerland?

Is speaking Standard Swiss German enough to live in Switzerland?

Switzerland’s linguistic diversity Switzerland is certainly one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. The diversity of the landscape, it’s history, cultural background and linguistic diversity make this country an unusual place. There is no other place in the world

Share this:

Top 10 tips to learn Swiss German

Top 10 tips to learn Swiss German

Whether English, Spanish, French or Swiss German – it is hard to learn a language and harder still to speak it fairly fluently. No doubt, there are some people who are linguistic whizzes, but most people find it difficult to

Share this: