Kettensäge
/ˈkɛtn̩ˌzɛːɡə/feminine
The English word chainsaw is Kettensäge in German. Wiktionary also lists Motorsäge and Motorfuchsschwanz.
Meaning: saw with a power-driven chain (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Kettensäge | /ˈkɛtn̩ˌzɛːɡə/ /-ˌzeːɡə/ |
feminine |
| Motorsäge | feminine | |
| Motorfuchsschwanz | [ˈmoːtoːɐ̯ˌfʊksʃvant͡s] (narrow) | masculine |
The term refers to a saw that is operated by a power-driven chain.
What does it mean word for word?
Kettensäge is a compound noun consisting of Kette, meaning chain and Säge, meaning saw.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some regions of Germany, Kettensäge may be referred to as Motorsäge.
How does it change in a sentence?
Kettensäge is a feminine noun, and its plural form is Kettensägen.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkɛtn̩ˌzɛːɡə/
Did you know?
- One highly informal way to say 'chainsaw' is Motorfuchsschwanz, which literally translates to 'motor fox tail'.
- In German, the word Säge can be used in the idiom die Säge ansetzen, which means to start criticizing or nagging someone persistently.
- In the compound word Kettensäge, the 'n' between Kette and Säge is a joining element called a 'Fugenlaut' used to connect nouns smoothly.
Examples in context
- Ich muß eine Kettensäge kaufen.I need to buy a chainsaw.This sentence is useful for expressing the need to purchase a Kettensäge.Tatoeba #12594783 by Waldelfe, translation #10370381 by CK
- Er hat die Kettensäge repariert.He fixed the chainsaw.This sentence is useful for describing the repair of a Kettensäge.Tatoeba #13488927 by Waldelfe, translation #8303802 by Amastan
- Wozu brauchtest du eine Kettensäge?Why did you need a chainsaw?This sentence is useful for asking about the reason a Kettensäge was needed.Tatoeba #7470205 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #7470197 by CK
- Ich möchte gerne eine Kettensäge kaufen. Können Sie mir helfen?I would like to buy a chainsaw. Can you help me?
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julian is working in the garden while Julia watches from the house.
- JuliaIst die Kettensäge sehr laut?Is the chainsaw very loud?
- JulianJa, die Kettensäge macht viel Krach.Yes, the chainsaw makes a lot of noise.
- JuliaPass bitte auf dich auf!Please be careful!
- JulianKeine Sorge, ich habe die Kettensäge sicher im Griff.Don't worry, I have the chainsaw firmly under control.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “chainsaw” translations and entries Kettensäge, Motorsäge, Motorfuchsschwanz, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
