Plautdietsch word of the day: aunjeschmäa't
The situation: Jacob Rempel felt that he had been a bachelor long enough and decided on a mail-order bride. He thought that this might be the one time that he shouldn’t bargain shop and so he decided on the best available option. However, instead of a the bride that he expected, he only received the ladies girdle that was pictured on page 177 of the Eaton’s catalog. (and not the woman that he was expecting). For a brief moment, he thought that this was a clear case of false advertising.
Used in a sentence: Jacob haud sich eeint aunjeschmäa't.
What it means: Having dupped / fooled oneself. Not what was expected in any given situation.
(Jacob sent the girdle back to Eaton's and received his full refund of $3.98 which he promptly deposited back into the Credit Union). Ultimately, Jacob felt that he'd get a better return on his investment by leaving his money in the bank (based on compound interest at 2.75%).
Plautdietsch is such an interesting and enjoyable language as it contains so many nuances of humor in its translation and individual interpretation. Would you like to learn more Plautdietsch? The ultimate low German dictionary ever published is still available. This amazing dictionary is the most complete reference of a language that was only used verbally for almost 500 years. Professor Jack Thiessen undertook the immense project of putting together a definitive and comprehensive dictionary to preserve this unique language. It makes a great gift for the younger generation who would like to learn and understand the spoken low German language of their parents and grandparents. It also makes a great gift for those who have forgotten many of the unique words and Plautdietsch phrases that have been used by Mennonites in the past 5 centuries. Order your copy and enjoy Plautdietsch like never before!
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