figures of speech – understand-culture

“an den Stellschrauben drehen”

When Germans say an den Stellschrauben drehen (literally to turn the adjusting screws), they mean making adjustments or fine-tuning levers or parameters to influence or optimize a situation or system.

Stellschrauben literally are adjusting screws or set screws used to finely tune mechanical devices. Metaphorically, die Stellschrauben drehen means to carefully adjust variables, factors, or levers that have influence over an outcome — usually in management, business, economics, or personal contexts.

It implies finding the right settings or making precise changes that have a meaningful impact. So, when Germans talk about adjusting the Stellschrauben, they mean fine-tuning critical control points or levers in a process or system to improve or change results.

“Air your grievances.”

“Air your grievances.” Encourages openly expressing complaints or accusations, typically in a forum where all parties are present.

“Tell it to my face.”

“Tell it to my face.” Demands that criticism or accusations be made directly, not behind someone’s back.

ein Bier trinken

Wir können uns streiten und danach ein Bier trinken gehen. We can argue and then go for a beer together.” This saying reflects the idea that professional disagreements do not impact personal relationships, and colleagues can remain friendly after a heated debate.

“What do you do?”

“What do you do?” This is often the first question Americans ask when meeting someone new, highlighting how work is central to personal identity in American culture.

“Have your day in court.”

“Have your day in court.” This phrase expresses the right and expectation to present one’s side of the story openly and directly before an impartial audience.

“Face the music.”

“Face the music.” Implies confronting criticism or accusations directly, rather than avoiding or deflecting them.

“Let’s clear the air.”

“Let’s clear the air.” Suggests addressing conflict or misunderstanding openly, often in a group or face-to-face setting.

“Give them a fair hearing.”

“Give them a fair hearing.”Means to listen to each side’s arguments or explanations openly and impartially.

First check, then commit.

Erst prüfen, dann zusagen. Literal translation: First check, then commit. Meaning: Emphasizes the importance of thoroughly reviewing all information before making a commitment.