400mal

400mal is a German phrase that translates to "400 times" in English. It is often used as an informal expression to emphasize a large quantity or frequency, suggesting something has happened or been done an excessive number of times. The phrase is not a literal count but rather a hyperbole to convey a sense of repetition or abundance.

The exact origin of "400mal" is not definitively documented, but its usage is common in everyday German conversation. It can be employed in various contexts, from expressing frustration with a repeated task to highlighting the vastness of an experience. For example, someone might say they have explained a concept "400mal" to indicate they are tired of repeating themselves. Similarly, a person might describe a journey as having taken "400mal" to suggest it was exceptionally long or arduous.

While "400mal" is not a precise measurement, it serves as a rhetorical device to amplify a point. Its informal nature means it is typically used in casual settings rather than formal writing or academic discourse. The underlying sentiment is that the number of occurrences is significant and, in many cases, more than desired. The phrase is a versatile idiom that adds color and emphasis to spoken German.