A2 Informal Variety
„Bald dieses, bald jenes."
First one thing, then another.
What does „Bald dieses, bald jenes." mean in German?
„Bald dieses, bald jenes." means "First one thing, then another.." Literally: "Soon this, soon that.."
Literal Translation
"Soon this, soon that."
Bald Soon
dieses this
bald soon
jenes that
English Equivalent
"Now this, now that."
This English idiom conveys the same meaning as the German expression.
Grammar Notes
'bald...bald' = now...now
When is this idiom used?
Informal
This expression is used in informal, casual German conversation among friends and family.
Related Words
Quick Quiz — Test Yourself
Test your knowledge of Bald dieses, bald jenes.
Related Idioms
„Wer A sagt, muß auch B sagen."
In for a penny, in for a pound.
„Er kommt ab und zu."
He comes now and then.
„Er ist das Abbild (von) seiner Mutter."
He is the very image of his mother.
„Ich kann heute nicht abkommen."
I can't get away (off) today.
„Die Uhr ist abgelaufen."
The clock has run down.
„Wie wird das ablaufen?"
How will this turn out?
