Length matters - can your language beat it?

Skybird · 06-03-13, 12:54 PM

German language has just lost its longest words (63 letters). Due to changed administrational practices, the Rindfleischetikettierungsüberwachungsaufgabenübert ragungsgesetz (short RkReÜAÜG) is no more. In English that would translate into: beef labelling monitoring assessment assignment law. Typical English, no sense for linguistic ergonomy, it needs six words where efficient Germans need just one.

The longest German word now is again the locally famous Dampfschifffahrtsgesellschaftskapitänswitwe (Danube steamship company captain's widow). Third is Kraftfahrzeug-Haftpflichtversicherung (vehicle liability insurance).

P.S. The gap in the word above is unintentional. It seems the forum software refuses to display this monster as one single word. Some internal limitations, you see.

06-03-13, 12:54 PM	#1
Skybird Soaring Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: the mental asylum named Germany Posts: 42,616 Downloads: 10 Uploads: 0	Length matters - can your language beat it? German language has just lost its longest words (63 letters). Due to changed administrational practices, the Rindfleischetikettierungsüberwachungsaufgabenübert ragungsgesetz (short RkReÜAÜG) is no more. In English that would translate into: beef labelling monitoring assessment assignment law. Typical English, no sense for linguistic ergonomy, it needs six words where efficient Germans need just one. The longest German word now is again the locally famous Dampfschifffahrtsgesellschaftskapitänswitwe (Danube steamship company captain's widow). Third is Kraftfahrzeug-Haftpflichtversicherung (vehicle liability insurance). P.S. The gap in the word above is unintentional. It seems the forum software refuses to display this monster as one single word. Some internal limitations, you see. __________________ If you feel nuts, consult an expert.