was sich liebt, das neckt sich

/vas zɪç liːpt, das nɛkt zɪç/
proverbIntermediateproverb
What It Really Means
Affectionate teasing is a sign of love and closeness between people.
Literal Meaning
Those who love each other tease each other.
Literal Breakdown
was sich liebtthose who love each other+das neckt sichthey tease each other
Mental Image
The mental image of two people playfully teasing each other, showing their affection through humor and light-heartedness.
When to Use
A couple might say this after playfully arguing or teasing each other, to reassure that their actions are out of love.
Cultural Note
This proverb reflects the German cultural value of directness and the belief that affection can be expressed through playful teasing.
informal

A playful or teasing relationship is a sign of affection and closeness between people who love each other.

Zwischen den Geschwistern gibt es immer viel Neckerei, aber sie lieben sich trotzdem sehr.

There's always a lot of teasing between the siblings, but they love each other very much.

💡

This proverb emphasizes that affectionate teasing is a normal and healthy part of close relationships.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

Liebe und Streitproverb
Love and conflict often go hand in hand

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

In German culture, this proverb highlights the importance of playful interactions in relationships, showing that teasing can be a form of affection.

Gold Rule

Usage Rule

Use this proverb when explaining that teasing is a sign of affection, not hostility.

📖Word Origin

This proverb originates from German folklore and reflects the cultural understanding that affectionate teasing is a sign of closeness and trust.

📝Usage Notes

This expression is commonly used to describe relationships between lovers, friends, or family members where playful teasing is a sign of affection.

Word Breakdown

was sich liebt
those who love each other
phrase
+
das neckt sich
they tease each other
phrase
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