Did you know that...
The Swiss dialect (so-called Schweizerdeutsch) is spoken by the locals living in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. It is only used in speech, while the written language in the German-speaking part of Switzerland is the so-called Hochdeutsch, the standard variety of German. Hochdeutsch is also used for all classes in schools, universities, the press and most books are published and television programmes are broadcast in this dialect.
However, if you want to communicate freely with the Swiss and adapt faster in this community, the basics of Swiss German will certainly come in very handy!
If you already speak German at min. B1, we offer you a basic course in Swiss German. You will quickly learn the most common everyday phrases and pronunciation. Swiss German has its own grammar and vocabulary and is as easy to learn as any other European language—check it out and become a hit with the locals!
What our course includes
Basics of Swiss dialect: The course will focus on learning the Swiss dialect, also known as Schweizer Deutsch. You will have the opportunity to understand and use the expressions, vocabulary and accents characteristic of this dialect.
Communication in everyday situations: We will focus on the practical aspects of learning the language, such as communicating in a shop, restaurant, train station or at work. You will acquire the skills necessary to communicate freely in everyday situations of life in Switzerland.
Swiss culture and customs: In addition to the language, the course will also introduce you to Swiss culture, customs and traditions. You will learn interesting facts about Swiss history, art, music and cuisine.
Numbers: You will learn how to pronounce and write numbers in the Swiss dialect, from 0 to 100 and beyond. You will get the chance to practice the pronunciation and use of numbers in different contexts, such as giving your age, telling the time or expressing quantities.
Greetings and expressions of politeness: You will learn typical expressions of politeness, such as “Grüezi” (hello / good morning) or “Danke schön” (thank you very much). You will be able to practise using them in everyday situations and become familiar with the differences between dialect phrases and standard German.
Pronunciation of words: We will focus on typical features of pronunciation in the Swiss dialect. You will learn to distinguish sounds and accents specific to this dialect, such as the specific pronunciation of “ch” or differences in vowel sounds.
Differences between German and Swiss: We will discuss the most important differences between standard German and the Swiss dialect. We will touch on topics such as word variety, idiomatic phrases, word abbreviations and specific vocabulary. This will allow you to better understand and recognise the differences between them.
Work methods
Dialogue-based classes: Our classes focus on interactive dialogues that allow you to put Swiss dialect into practice in various communication situations. You will have the opportunity to practise listening comprehension and speaking the dialect.
Authentic materials: We use authentic materials such as recordings with Swiss interlocutors, videos or recordings from TV programmes. These will enable you to listen to the real Swiss dialect and understand the differences from standard German.
Real Swiss Muttersprachler: The classes are taught by authentic Swiss speakers from the various German-speaking areas of Switzerland.
