German GCSE
False Friend
What False Friend means in German GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of False Friend
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain False Friend in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A word that looks similar to an English word but has a different meaning (e.g., das Gift = poison, not gift).
A word that looks like an English word but has a completely different meaning (e.g., das Gymnasium).
A word that looks like an English word but has a completely different meaning (e.g., Gymnasium).
A word that looks like an English word but means something different, like 'der Karton'.
Topics that use False Friend
- General vocabulary: Shape (AQA GCSE)
- Theme-based vocabulary (Foundation): Current and future study and employment (AQA GCSE)
- Theme-based vocabulary (Higher): Local, national, international and global areas of interest (AQA GCSE)
- Themes (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Cognate
- Infinitive
- Modal Verb
- Subordinating Conjunction
- Adjective Agreement
- Auxiliary Verb
- Dative Case
- Futur I
Using False Friend in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise German questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All German GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge