Why do yiddish people put schm- in front of a word?

The use of "schm-" in Yiddish is a linguistic phenomenon called "intensification" or "diminutivization." It's not about being Yiddish people specifically, but rather a way to add a humorous or ironic twist to a word, similar to how we might use "so-called" or "wannabe" in English.

Here's how it works:

* Diminutivization: "Schm-" can be used to make a word less important, less serious, or even a bit ridiculous. For example, "schmuck" (meaning "jerk") is a less serious insult than "asshole".

* Irony: It can also be used to express sarcasm or skepticism, often in a playful way. For example, "schmucky" could be used to mean "not really" or "not impressive."

* Emphasis: Sometimes, it's simply used to emphasize a word or make it stand out.

It's important to note:

* "Schm-" is not always used with negative connotations. It can also be used humorously or affectionately.

* The specific meaning of "schm-" can vary depending on the context.

Ultimately, the use of "schm-" is a subtle and nuanced way to express a variety of emotions in Yiddish. It's a playful and expressive element of the language that adds a touch of humor and irony.