Taschenrechner
masculine
The German word for calculator is Taschenrechner. Wiktionary also lists Rechner.
Meaning: electronic device that performs mathematical calculations (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Taschenrechner | masculine | |
| Rechner | /ˈʁɛçnɐ/ | masculine |
The term refers to an electronic device used to perform mathematical calculations.
What does it mean word for word?
Taschenrechner is a compound noun made of Tasche, meaning pocket and Rechner, meaning calculator or computer.
Which one should you use?
Taschenrechner specifically describes a handheld calculator. In contrast, Rechner is a broader term that can refer to a calculator, a computer or a general calculating machine.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word is a masculine noun. In the genitive singular case, the form becomes Taschenrechners, which translates to "calculator's".
Did you know?
- German uses the same root word rechnen for both the mathematical act of calculating and the act of expecting or counting on something to happen.
- The term Rechner can also be found in the word Rechenmeister, a historical term for someone who was a master of mental arithmetic.
- The -n- in Taschenrechner is a connecting element called a 'Fugenlaut' that makes the compound word easier to pronounce.
Examples in context
- Das ist mein Taschenrechner.This is my calculator.This sentence shows how to identify a calculator.Tatoeba #9352629 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #7714038 by MisterBrown
- Ich brauche einen neuen Taschenrechner.I need a new calculator.This sentence is useful for expressing a need for a new calculator.Tatoeba #8691626 by Luiaard, translation #6270608 by CK
- Mein Taschenrechner hat sich verrechnet.My calculator made a mistake.This sentence demonstrates using Taschenrechner to describe a device making a calculation error.Tatoeba #3104472 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #3104470 by Hybrid
- Kann ich deinen Taschenrechner ausleihen?Can I borrow your calculator?
- Ich brauche einen Rechner für die Matheprüfung.I need a calculator for the math exam.
- 20 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Hannah are studying in a library.
- LukasHast du einen Taschenrechner dabei?Do you have a calculator with you?
- HannahJa, mein Taschenrechner liegt hier in der Tasche.Yes, my calculator is lying here in the bag.
- LukasKann ich ihn kurz benutzen?Can I use it briefly?
- HannahNatürlich, nimm ihn dir einfach.Of course, just take it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “calculator” translations and entries Taschenrechner, Rechner, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
