Sprache ändern
/ˈʃpʁaːxə ˈʔɛndɐn/word by word
In German, change language as a menu or settings option is Sprache ändern.
Sprache ändern is the standard label on a button or setting in software and on websites. In a settings menu you may also see Sprache & Region for language and region.
What does it mean word for word?
Sprache means language and ändern means to change or alter.
Which one should you use?
Sprache wechseln is a common alternative that stresses switching from one language to another. The verb umstellen is also used, as in ich würde gerne die Sprache umstellen, I would like to switch the language.
How does it change in a sentence?
For a status message saying the language has been changed, use the past participle, Sprache geändert. To ask someone politely, say Könnten Sie bitte die Sprache ändern? or with a friend Kannst du bitte die Sprache ändern?
How do you pronounce it?
In IPA it is /ˈʃpʁaːxə ˈʔɛndɐn/. The s at the start of Sprache sounds like the sh in ship.
Did you know?
- German uses the word Sprache to describe not only human languages but also the 'language' of animals or computer programming.
- The word Sprache is actually a close relative of the English word 'speech', as both share a common Germanic ancestor.
- The verb ändern is closely linked to the word anderer, which means 'other'.
Examples in context
- Ich möchte die Sprache ändern.I want to change the language.
- Kann ich hier die Sprache ändern?Can I change the language here?
- Du musst zuerst die Sprache ändern.You have to change the language first.
Example conversation
Lukas is helping Laura with the settings on her new smartphone.
- LauraWie kann ich die Sprache ändern?How can I change the language?
- LukasGeh einfach in die Einstellungen.Just go into the settings.
- LauraDanke, Lukas!Thanks, Lukas!
- LukasGerne, Laura.You're welcome, Laura.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (Sprache, ändern) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Sprache, ändern, CC BY-SA 4.0.
