Rote Bete
/ˌʁoːtəˈbeːtə/
The English phrase 'beets' is translated into German as Rote Bete.
Rote Bete refers to the edible root of a plant with red flesh.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Rote Bete literally translates to 'red beet'.
Which one should you use?
Rote Bete is the default form, while Rote Beete is a versatile alternative used in both formal and informal contexts. In some regions, you may also encounter the term Rote Rübe.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Rote Rübe is commonly used in Austria and parts of southern Germany.
How does it change in a sentence?
Rote Bete is a feminine noun phrase and takes the feminine article die. The plural form of the phrase is Rote Beten.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌʁoːtəˈbeːtə/
Did you know?
- Because the word Bete sounds almost identical to the German word Beten, which means 'to pray', some spoken puns can occur in humorous contexts.
- In German culinary contexts, Rote Bete is frequently paired with apples or horseradish to balance its earthy flavor profile.
- The word Bete shares an ancient root with the English word 'beet', making them distant linguistic cousins from the Proto-West Germanic period.
Examples in context
- Ich mag keine Rote Bete.I don't like beets.This sentence is useful for expressing a dislike of Rote Bete.Tatoeba #2558814 by mrtaistoi, translation #2271871 by CK
- Die Rote Bete ist reich an Vitaminen und Mineralstoffen.Beets are rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Haben Sie Rote Rüben im Gemüseregal?Do you have beets in the vegetable aisle?
- Hast du Lust, heute Rote Beete zu essen?Do you feel like eating beets today?
- Die Rote Bete schmeckt sehr gut.The beet tastes very good.
- Kaufen wir heute Rote Bete?Are we buying beets today?
Example conversation
Felix and Julia are at a grocery store.
- FelixBrauchen wir noch Rote Bete für den Salat?Do we still need beets for the salad?
- JuliaJa, nimm bitte zwei Packungen mit.Yes, please take two packs with you.
- FelixSoll ich auch Äpfel suchen?Should I look for apples too?
- JuliaDas wäre super, danke!That would be great, thanks!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Rote Bete, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Bete, Rote Bete, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
