‘Das crazy’ is the German Youth Word of the Year 2025

‘Das crazy’ is the German Youth Word of the Year 2025

## “Das Crazy” Crowned German Youth Word of the Year, Reflecting Evolving Linguistic Landscape

**Berlin, Germany** – The German language, renowned for its precision and complexity, continues to evolve, particularly within the vibrant subcultures of its youth. This year, the annual “Jugendwort des Jahres” (Youth Word of the Year) competition has crowned “das crazy” as the winner, signaling a shift in how young Germans express astonishment, disbelief, or simply, the unconventional. The selection, made by a jury of linguists, journalists, educators, and youth representatives, highlights the dynamic interplay between traditional language and emerging slang.

“Das crazy,” a direct borrowing and adaptation of the English adjective “crazy,” is used in German to describe something as outlandish, unbelievable, or simply cool. Its victory underscores the increasing influence of English on German youth vernacular, a phenomenon that has sparked both fascination and debate among language purists and sociolinguists alike. While the adoption of foreign words is not new to the German language, the widespread integration of English terms into everyday speech, particularly among younger generations, is a notable trend.

The competition, organized by the Langenscheidt publishing house, aims to capture the pulse of youth language and provide insights into the cultural values and trends shaping the younger generation. This year’s selection process involved a multi-stage process, beginning with nominations submitted by the public. A shortlist of the top ten most frequently nominated words was then presented to the jury, who deliberated based on criteria such as originality, creativity, and prevalence of usage.

While “das crazy” ultimately took the top spot, the other shortlisted contenders offered a glimpse into the diverse landscape of German youth slang. “Goonen,” a term derived from online gaming culture, refers to being deeply engrossed or “in the zone,” often associated with intense focus or immersion in a particular activity. “Checkst du,” a direct translation of the English phrase “Do you check?” or “Do you understand?” reflects the ongoing influence of English and the desire for clear communication within peer groups.

The choice of “das crazy” has already ignited discussion across social media platforms and within academic circles. Some critics argue that the adoption of English loanwords weakens the German language and diminishes its unique character. Others contend that it is a natural and inevitable process, reflecting the interconnectedness of global cultures and the constant evolution of language to meet the needs of its speakers.

Professor Erika Schmidt, a sociolinguist at the Humboldt University of Berlin, commented on the selection: “The victory of ‘das crazy’ is not simply about adopting an English word; it’s about adapting it and integrating it into the German grammatical structure. The addition of the neuter article ‘das’ transforms it into a noun, giving it a distinctly German flavor. This illustrates the creative ways in which young people are shaping and reshaping the language to express their own experiences and perspectives.”

The “Jugendwort des Jahres” competition serves as a valuable barometer of cultural change and linguistic innovation. It highlights the ever-evolving nature of language and the vital role that young people play in shaping its future. While the prevalence of “das crazy” may eventually fade, its selection as the Youth Word of the Year 2025 provides a fascinating snapshot of contemporary German youth culture and the ongoing dialogue between tradition and innovation in the linguistic landscape. The adoption and adaptation of “das crazy” speaks volumes about the evolving way young people communicate and connect with the world around them, reflecting a globalized society where language barriers are increasingly porous and the boundaries of expression are constantly being redefined.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.