
Key Phrases
Auf ihrem Weg zum Horizont
On their way to the horizon
Hielt man für Ufos aus dem All
Believed to be UFOs from outer space
Nur 99 Luftballons
Only 99 balloons
Skills You'll Learn
Understanding metaphorical language
Metaphorische Sprache verstehen
Translating phrases with multiple meanings
Phrasen mit mehreren Bedeutungen übersetzen
Comprehending contextual cues in a sentence
Kontextuelle Hinweise in einem Satz verstehen
Lesson Vocabulary & Phrases
Auf ihrem Weg
On their way
The word 'Weg' can mean 'way' or 'path'. Context will help you determine which.
In Germany, walking is a popular activity, and the term 'Weg' is frequently used in daily conversations.
Zum Horizont
To the horizon
Note that 'zum' is a contraction of 'zu dem', a common occurrence in German.
The horizon is often associated with dreams and aspirations, much like in this song.
Auf ihrem Weg zum Horizont
On their way to the horizon
Combining prepositions like 'auf' and 'zu' with destinations reflects movement towards something.
The horizon suggests limitless possibilities, an idea captured beautifully in the song.
Hielt man
It was thought to be
'Hielt' is the past tense of 'halten', which means 'to hold' or 'to think'.
Speculation about unidentified objects was a common Cold War theme.
Für Ufos
UFOs
'Für' means 'for' or 'as'; here it indicates what something is mistaken for.
UFO sightings peaked during the Cold War, reflecting cultural anxieties.
Aus dem All
From outer space
'All' in German refers to the cosmos or universe.
Outer space captivated public imagination, especially during the space race.
Hielt man für Ufos aus dem All
Believed to be UFOs from outer space
German often uses past tense in narratives, compared to English's preference for present.
UFO speculations symbolized broader fears and hopes of the time.
Darum schickte
Therefore sent
'Darum' indicates causality, similar to 'therefore' or 'hence'.
This phrase underscores a reactive approach, common during tense political stand-offs.
Ein General
A general
The word 'General' in German is used similarly as in English, denoting high military rank.
Military authority figures, like generals, were often central in narratives about global tension.
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