Hans Dampf in allen Gassen
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German[edit]
Alternative forms[edit]
Etymology[edit]
Literally, “John Steam in all alleys”. Used as a title of a story by Heinrich Zschokke (1771–1848), variation of the older Hans in allen Gassen.
Pronunciation[edit]
Noun[edit]
Hans Dampf in allen Gassen m (strong, genitive Hans Dampf in allen Gassen, no plural)
- (idiomatic) jack of all trades (talented and versatile person who is involved in many endeavours, implying initiative and great activity, but possibly also a certain rashness or recklessness)
- Synonyms: Tausendsassa, Universaltalent, Allrounder
Further reading[edit]
- “Hansdampf in allen Gassen” in Digitales Wörterbuch der deutschen Sprache