How do you distinguish Germans from other Europeans? (program, Polish, olive)

[Neuling]

Actually, that's the stereotypical south Bavarian, not the stereotypical German. But many foreigners seem to think that is the same, as if the stereotypical Texan were the stereotypical American
I am from southern Bavaria myself, but I have never worn Lederhosen in my whole life, nor anyone in my family. Actually, I have only met one single person who wore Lederhosen, and oddly it was a sassy female student at the university Nor have I eaten sausages or drunk beer in decades

[GER308]

Originally Posted by Neuling

Actually, that's the stereotypical south Bavarian, not the stereotypical German. But many foreigners seem to think that is the same, as if the stereotypical Texan were the stereotypical American

Stimmt natrurlich. You live In a really nice place, I love South Baveria.

[Neuling]

I never liked it there, glad I moved away But I do remember it

[bjh]

Was für ein Stereotyp!

[Neuling]

Hehe Lots of those at the Oktoberfest

[french user]

Originally Posted by nicesinging1

Hello. I am Asian American living in U.S. I have a number of European American friends and often get it wrong on guessing their ancestry. For instance, I can't distinguish between Germans and Irish or between Spanish and Portuguese.

Without relying upon their last name for guessing their nationality, do you know a way to accurately determine how to distinguish German Americans from other European Americans? For instance, what is the typical facial feature of Germans in distinction with other Europeans? On one more note, is it true that Germans are almost never late to a meeting?

Thanks in advance for any insights.

They speak German and have a german passport.

[cieronh]

I am an adopted person. I have recently learnt of my German ancestry. For that reason, I would submit it's legitimate, and not necessarily racist, to ponder questions on the topics of physiognomy and behaviours whereas ethnicity are concerned.

For the longest time, I honestly thought I might be a Celt.

I'm not very tall, or average height, with a slight build. I have a fair complexion, freckles, grey-green eyes, and very dark (almost black) hair. And as someone mentioned previously in this thread, I have an almost pathological compulsion towards promptness. I'm very tidy and organised. I like simple, well-made things and modest dress.

[bjh]

I don't have to distinguish Germans. They distinguish themselves by being some of the smartest people on earth.

[KsStorm]

Interesting thread! I am 1st generation American on my dad's side, he is full German, came here at age 7 after Oma married an American soldier after divorcing his father after WWII. He is short, heavy w/ dark hair & eyes, and skin that tans easily. His parents were German ( his birth father was a Nazi & they had to prove their lineage however far back) and although he never knew his birth father, his mother had bright red hair & I am blonde with very fair skin.

[Tobiashen]

In my experience, the overall air, or aura, about a person perks up my instincts -- not the physical/facial features. Someone mentioned Germans as being proud and intelligent (or at least like to think of themselves that way), and I agree. There's something a little standoffish, slightly remote, slightly "correct" (which would include punctuality, among other things, like orderliness, a vague feeling of carefully keeping emotions in check) regarding those I've met with a strong German lineage. But again, this is only my perspective, which may be completely skewed. I certainly can't speak for anyone else at all.