Outdoor term in German: JWD (pronounced 'yanz vait drossen'), meaning 'far out there'.
In the vibrant city of Berlin, a colloquial expression known as "Janz weit draussen" has become a defining part of the local dialect. The phrase, which translates to "completely out there" or "way off," carries a unique cultural significance that goes beyond its literal meaning.
### Origin
Rooted in the characteristic Berlin dialect, "Janz weit draussen" is a playful modification of standard German words. The term "janz" is a Berlinish variation of the standard German "ganz" (meaning "whole" or "entire/very"), while "draussen" means "outside" or "out there" in standard German. Together, "janz weit draussen" literally translates to "very far outside" or "completely out there."
### Usage
In everyday speech, "janz weit draussen" is used to describe someone or something that is off in terms of thinking, behavior, or location—often implying that an idea is far-fetched, someone is not in touch with reality, or something is geographically remote. For example, if someone suggests an unrealistic or absurd plan, a Berliner might say, "Det is janz weit draussen," meaning "That's way out there (crazy/stupid)."
### Cultural Significance
The phrase embodies the straightforward, humorous, and somewhat irreverent attitude typically associated with Berliners. It highlights how regional dialects enrich the German language, carrying local identity and character beyond the standard language. The phrase can reflect cultural or social distancing—not only physical but mental, critiquing ideas or attitudes that don't resonate with Berliners' direct style.
"Janz weit draussen" can also be a marker of Berlin’s unique linguistic identity and its characteristic blunt, humorous worldview. It often appears in films, TV shows, and literature to evoke a specific local atmosphere or to typify the Berlin working-class persona.
Interestingly, the phrase "Janz weit draussen" is also part of the JWD phrase, which means "way out in the middle of nowhere." Incorrect German would use "ganz weit draussen" instead.
Outside Berlin, the phrase can serve as a way to bond with locals or Germans over the unique dialect and culture of the city. For instance, the airport in Berlin, while not near Frankfurt as one might expect, is located 120 kilometers away, in a remote area, often referred to as "am Arsch der Welt" (the arse-end of the world) by Germans not from Berlin.
In Berlin, the dialect often swaps a "G" at the beginning of a word for a "J," such as in the case of "JWD" instead of "GWD" (ganz weit draussen). This quirk can be a fascinating topic of conversation for those learning the language or simply interested in local culture. If you're not in Berlin, you can even use "JWD" ironically to bond with others over the peculiarities of Berliners.
Fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts might find outdoor-living climbing gear or gardening apparel that fits the "Janz weit draussen" lifestyle, as the phrase embodies a non-conformist and humorous attitude typical of Berliners. At home-and-garden shops, locals often look for items that reflect this unique perspective, such as quirky planters or functional furniture with bold designs.
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