Querdenker
/ˈkveːɐ̯ˌdɛŋkɐ/noun★Intermediate
informal
A person who thinks outside the box, approaching problems from unconventional angles.
Die Firma sucht Querdenker, die innovative Ideen entwickeln können.
The company is looking for lateral thinkers who can develop innovative ideas.
💡
The term emphasizes creative, non-linear thinking and is often used in business and creative contexts.
Collocations
Querdenker seinto be a lateral thinkerQuerdenker gesuchtlateral thinkers wanted
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
querdenkenverb
to think laterally
💡Pro Tip
Usage in Business
In German business culture, 'Querdenker' is often valued for problem-solving roles.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While positive, overusing 'Querdenker' can imply recklessness or lack of structure.
📖Word Origin
From 'quer' (crosswise, oblique) + 'Denker' (thinker), emphasizing unconventional thinking.
📝Usage Notes
Often used in professional settings to describe individuals who challenge norms and propose original solutions.
Word Breakdown
quer
crosswise, oblique
prefixDenker
thinker
rootDeutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch