

But "Schw-eye-z" is used in written language (and in High German) because it was borrowed from the German variant of the term, which underwent the German Diphthongisation. The German-speaking regions can further be characterised by diglossic features with both Swiss German (an umbrella term for myriad local dialectal varieties) and Standard/High German co-existing. You learn Swiss German dynamically and at your. on vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation. To conclude: "Schw-ee-z" is the original pronounciation, which is still used today in Swiss German. Learn or practice the Swiss German Language with ease and fun. Now it is time for vocabulary and grammar, everyone’s nightmare. The source does not mention the transition between "y/i" and "ei" but probably this was also a result of the German Diphthongisation in the middle ages. Acquire vocabulary and grammar efficiently. The main ones are the lack of genitive case, of past simple, of the letter and the doubling of certain verbs such as to come and to go, as well as the difference in the diminutives. Complete Grammar Guide to Swiss German: A practical guide with exercises for English speakers with a basic knowledge of Standard German Paperback Augby Joanna Dornbierer-Stuart (Author) 11 ratings See all formats and editions Paperback 26.23 3 New from 26.

For example, they took part in the famous Battle of Sempach in 1386 against the Habsburgs.Įven earlier, there was the Battle of Morgarten, where the soldiers from the canton of "Schwyz" made a lasting impression on southern Germans, who now began to use the terms "Switzer", "Switenses" or "Swicenses" for the whole Swiss cantonal alliance.ĭuring the German Diphthongisation, the pronounciation was altered and, interestingly, the Swiss themselves later took over the new notation but kept the native pronounciation. Swiss German grammar differs from the High German one in various aspects. This canton also took part in battles that helped to shape the unified Swiss national identity. The original name of Switzerland is probably derived from the name of one of the cantons taking part in the legendary "Rütlischwur"-oath, which today is pronounced as "Schwyz" (with ee). The main source for this answer is the Historical Dictionary of Switzerland. Swiss German ( Standard German: Schweizerdeutsch, Alemannic German: Schwiizerdtsch, Schwyzerdtsch, Schwiizerttsch, Schwizertitsch Mundart, note 1 and others) is any of the Alemannic dialects spoken in the German-speaking part of Switzerland and in some Alpine communities in Northern Italy bordering Switzerland.
