Erklärungsnot

Translating literally to either “explanation poverty” or “explanation emergency”, Erklärungsnot describes a state in which you are put on the spot without an explanation or excuse for your actions.

Once caught, you might be at a loss for words. Some situations that might arouse Erklärungsnot are cheating on a test, stealing, lying, or looking through someone’s phone – basically any and all situations that make it difficult for you to explain yourself.