:::An unabridged dictionary gives a few definitions of "ass". One is "vulgar" meaning buttocks. I believe this is the common meaning in American colloquial English and want to avoid it. It is not a translation of Esel. Another meaning has to do with various species of the genus Equus, such as donkey, I doubt that there is an English word that combines the two meanings of German Esel, literal (animal) and figurative (stupid person). I will be happy if we   avoid "ass" but am not wedded to "simpleton". What about "oaf"? And I don't mind at all if people want to mention the German "Jeder Esel" that is being translated. I don't think that donkeys have a particular reputation for stupidity in the USA. I'm humbled by the editors I respect who have joined in this discussion