interjection
Common
der
dur
Der (interjection) means used sarcastically to point out that something just said is obvious or was already known. Example: “The sun rises in the east." "Der, everyone knows that!" laughed his sister.”
interjection
1
Used sarcastically to point out that something just said is obvious or was already known.
""The sun rises in the east." "Der, everyone knows that!" laughed his sister."
""Your phone won't work if it's switched off." "Der!" she replied."
""You need water to survive." "Der, obviously.""
2
Used to mock someone for saying or doing something foolish.
"He tripped over his own shoelaces and everyone went "der!""
"She walked straight into the glass door and her brother said "der!" with a grin."
"After he tried to open the door by pushing the "pull" sign, they all muttered "der"."
How to use der
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sarcastic "duh" — said when something is painfully obvious or someone says something silly.
When to use it
Very informal slang, mainly spoken.
Easily confused with
duh →
dur
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Word forms
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"The sun rises in the east." "_____, everyone knows that!" laughed his sister.
Etymology
An imitative sound, mimicking a slow or dim-witted response; related in spirit to "duh" and "dur."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “der” mean?
The word “der” means used sarcastically to point out that something just said is obvious or was already known. In plain terms, a sarcastic "duh" — said when something is painfully obvious or someone says something silly.
How do you pronounce “der”?
“Der” is pronounced dur (/dɜː/ in IPA).
How do you use “der” in a sentence?
Here is “der” used in a sentence: “"You need water to survive." "Der, obviously.".”
What is another word for “der”?
Words with a similar meaning to “der” include duh.
What part of speech is “der”?
“Der” is an interjection.
Is “der” a common word?
“Der” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “der” have?
“Der” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: used sarcastically to point out that something just said is obvious or was already known.
What is the difference between "der" and "duh"?
Both are interjections used sarcastically to point out that something just said is obvious. "Duh" is the more widespread spelling, while "der" is a variant common in British and Australian informal speech.
Is saying "der" rude?
It can be, since "der" is used sarcastically to mock someone for stating the obvious or doing something foolish. It is playful among friends but can sound dismissive or insulting in serious or formal situations.
When would you say "der" to someone?
People say "der" as a joking response when someone points out something everyone already knows, meaning "of course" or "obviously." It is very casual slang best kept to informal conversation.
Is "der" formal or informal?
"Der" is highly informal slang and would look out of place in writing or professional speech. In formal contexts you would say "obviously" or "that is well known" instead.
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