das Girokonto das ȚIRO-kon-to
the current account
“Das Girokonto” = the everyday current account. Payments between accounts go through “die Überweisung” (transfer), using the “IBAN”. In Germany cash still matters a lot — many places do NOT take cards.
die EC-Karte di E-ȚE-kar-te
the debit card
“Die EC-Karte” (officially “Girocard”) = the standard German debit card, linked to the “Girokonto”. Many still say “EC-Karte” out of habit. It's NOT a credit card (“die Kreditkarte”), which is less common here.
der Geldautomat der GHELT-au-to-mat
the ATM
“Der Geldautomat” = ATM (colloquially also “der Automat”). Other banks' ATMs may charge “Gebühren” (fees). Look for one belonging to your bank or a fee-free network to withdraw cash.
die PIN di PIN
the PIN
“Die PIN” = the secret 4-digit code. After 3 wrong tries, “die Karte ist gesperrt” (the card is blocked). When paying by card you're often asked “Mit PIN oder Unterschrift?” (PIN or signature).
die Gebühr di ghe-BÜÜR
the fee / charge
“Die Gebühr” = the fee/charge. When exchanging money you ask about “der Wechselkurs” (the rate) and “die Gebühr”. Tip: withdrawing cash from an ATM is often cheaper than exchanging at a counter (“die Wechselstube”).
ScenaLingua
