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Austrian German vs Standard German – Key Differences Explained | German Everywhere

Updated: Oct 7

The difference between Austrian German and Standard German (often called Hochdeutsch) lies in vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and cultural nuances. Both are forms of High German and are mutually intelligible, but Austria’s unique history, geography, and identity have shaped its language.


At German Everywhere, we’ll break it down for you:


Vocabulary


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Austrian German has unique words and expressions, often influenced by neighboring languages like Czech, Hungarian, and Italian, as well as regional dialects (e.g., Austro-Bavarian).


Examples:

  • Jänner (Austria) vs Januar (Germany) – January

  • Paradeiser vs Tomate – Tomato

  • Sackerl vs Tüte – Small bag

These differences often stem from Austria’s historical ties to the Austro-Hungarian Empire.


Pronunciation


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Austrian German tends to sound softer and more melodic compared to northern Germany’s sharper tones:


  • “R” is typically rolled or softer in Austrian German, guttural in Germany.

  • Vowels like “a” and “o” can be more open or rounded.

  • Harsh “ch” sounds (as in ich) are softer or sometimes omitted.



Grammar


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While grammar is largely similar, Austrian German has some quirks:


  • Past tense: Austrians prefer the perfect tense (Ich habe gemacht) over the preterite (Ich machte), even in formal writing.

  • Politeness: Austrian German often uses more formal constructions, reflecting cultural emphasis on courtesy. Subjunctive (Konjunktiv) is more frequent, especially in official contexts.


Influence of Dialects


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Austria’s regional dialects (e.g., Viennese, Tyrolean, or Styrian) are closer to everyday Austrian German than the dialects in Germany are to Standard German. In Germany, Standard German (*Hochdeutsch*) is more standardized and detached from regional dialects like Saxon or Swabian. In Austria, even formal speech can carry a dialectal flavor.




Cultural Context


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Austrian German reflects Austria’s distinct culture:


  • Food terms like Krapfen (doughnut) or Marille (apricot) are uniquely Austrian.

  • Official vocabulary includes Habsburg-era bureaucratic terms, different from Germany’s Prussian-influenced administration.



Austrian German and Standard German are like siblings: very similar but with distinct personalities. Austrian German is shaped by the Alps, multicultural history, and a slightly more formal tone. Standard German is more uniform and influenced by northern Germany’s linguistic trends. Knowing one will get you far with the other, but asking for a Tomate in Vienna might raise an eyebrow!


Learn Austrian German Online


Want to explore Austrian German vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar with a native-speaking teacher? At German Everywhere, we offer online German lessons tailored to your goals. Practice real-life phrases, understand cultural nuances, and gain confidence in everyday conversation.



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