A2Informal

Jemanden übers Ohr hauen

To rip someone off; to swindle someone

In German

Jemanden übers Ohr hauen

ˈjeːmandn̩ ˈyːbɐs oːɐ̯ ˈhaʊ̯ən
Literal Translation
To hit someone over the ear
Meaning
To rip someone off; to swindle someone

Equivalent:"To rip someone off; to swindle someone"

Origin:This idiom likely comes from the ancient practice of 'Ohrenfeigen' (ear slaps), which were sometimes used to confirm a deal or to punish someone. 'Übers Ohr hauen' could imply a cunning trick that leaves the victim disadvantaged.

Example Sentences

  1. 1

    Der Verkäufer hat mich übers Ohr gehauen, das war viel zu teuer.

    The salesperson ripped me off, that was way too expensive.

  2. 2

    Lass dich nicht übers Ohr hauen, überprüfe immer den Preis.

    Don't let yourself be ripped off, always check the price.

FAQ

How do you say "To rip someone off; to swindle someone" in German?

"To rip someone off; to swindle someone" in German is "Jemanden übers Ohr hauen" (ˈjeːmandn̩ ˈyːbɐs oːɐ̯ ˈhaʊ̯ən). Example: Der Verkäufer hat mich übers Ohr gehauen, das war viel zu teuer..

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