der Halbstarke
Translation
hoodlum, tough guy, hooligan, punk
Examples
Eine Gruppe Halbstarker machte Ärger.
A group of hoodlums was causing trouble.
Er spielte in dem Film einen Halbstarken.
He played a tough guy in the movie.
Grammar Patterns
to be considered ((a hoodlum)) Er galt in der Schule als Halbstarker.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Rowdy, Rüpel; Antonyms: Gentleman
Etymology
Composed of 'halb' (half) and 'stark' (strong). It literally means 'half-strong', suggesting a youth who is only partially strong, i.e., putting on a tough facade.
Memory Tips
Visualize a teenager flexing their muscles but only being 'half strong', which helps remember the 'tough guy' persona.