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schwatzen

to chatter, to gossip, to talk idly

verb SHVAT-tsen Rare
Communication Speech

Usage Note

schwatzen describes idle, gossipy chatter — talking a lot without saying much of importance. It can be used for casual chatting or for disapproved gossip. 'Schwatz nicht so viel!' (Stop chattering so much!). More southern and slightly old-fashioned than quatschen.

Examples

"Die alten Frauen schwatzten auf dem Marktplatz über das Dorfleben."

Natural Translation

The old women chatted about village life in the market square.

Literal Translation

The old women chattered on the market-square about the village-life.

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