das Armutszeugnis
Translation
a poor showing, a sign of inadequacy, a disgrace, a damning indictment
Examples
Das ist ein Armutszeugnis für die Politik.
That is a poor showing for the politicians.
Sein Verhalten war ein einziges Armutszeugnis.
His behaviour was a complete disgrace.
Grammar Patterns
ein Armutszeugnis für j-n/et4 sein to be a poor showing for sb./sth. The result is a poor showing for the team.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Blamage (disgrace), Schande (shame)
Etymology
A compound noun from 'Armut' (poverty) and 'Zeugnis' (certificate, report card). Literally a 'poverty certificate', referring to a poverty of skill or morality.
Memory Tips
Imagine getting a report card ('Zeugnis') that certifies you are 'poor' ('Armut') in skills, not money. It's a sign of failure.