bequem
/bəˈkveːm/
The German word bequem means bequem (phrase).
bequem can describe physical comfort, such as a chair, but it can also describe a person who is lazy or someone who prefers the easy way out.
Which one should you use?
While bequem refers to physical comfort or a lack of effort, the word gemütlich is used to describe a cozy, warm and pleasant atmosphere or feeling.
How does it change in a sentence?
To form the comparative meaning 'more comfortable', add '-er' to the end of the word to get bequemer.
How do you pronounce it?
/bəˈkveːm/
Did you know?
- A German speaker might describe a 'comfortable' lie as eine bequeme Lüge, referring to a falsehood that is easier to believe than the truth.
- The Dutch word bekwaam, which looks similar to bequem, actually means 'skilled' or 'capable', showing how the same root shifted from 'suitability' to 'skill' in one language and 'comfort' in German.
Examples in context
- Das Sofa ist echt bequemThe sofa is really comfortable
- Der Zug hat breite, bequeme Sitze.The train has wide, comfortable seats.
- Der Sessel ist sehr bequem.The armchair is very comfortable.
- Ich trage gerne bequeme Kleidung.I like wearing comfortable clothes.
- Diese Schuhe sind wirklich bequem.These shoes are really comfortable.
Example conversation
Maximilian and Hannah are at a furniture store.
- MaximilianIst das Sofa bequem?Is the sofa comfortable?
- HannahJa, es ist sehr bequem.Yes, it is very comfortable.
- MaximilianDas gefällt mir gut.I like that a lot.
- HannahDann sollten wir es kaufen.Then we should buy it.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry bequem, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bequem, CC BY-SA 4.0.
