Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Kirche | /ˈkɪʁçə/ | feminine |
| Chilche | Alemannic German, feminine | |
| Kìrech | Alemannic German |
The word Kirche is used to refer to both the religious institution and the physical building itself. If you wish to specify only the physical structure, you may use der Kirchenbau.
Which one should you use?
While Kirche is the standard term, more specific words exist depending on the context. Use Kathedrale when referring to large and impressive cathedrals. For a highly formal tone, you might use Gotteshaus, which literally translates to house of God.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Austria, Dom is frequently used for cathedrals. In certain Swiss German dialects, you may encounter Kirchli or Kirchä. Additionally, the Alemannic-German forms Chilche and Kìrech are used in specific regions.
How does it change in a sentence?
When expressing that you are inside the church building, use the preposition in with the dative case, as in in der Kirche.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkɪʁçə/
Did you know?
- A Dom is not necessarily the largest church in a city but is specifically the seat of a bishop, reflecting a hierarchy of power over size.
- The word Dom is used for cathedrals, but it is not a shortened version of Domkirche. It comes from the Latin 'domus', meaning 'house'.
- In many German villages, the Kirchturm or church tower historically served as the primary timekeeper and warning system for the entire community.
Examples in context
- Wo ist die Kirche?Where's the church?This sentence is useful for asking for the location of the Kirche.Tatoeba #8084757 by Luiaard, translation #6357669 by CK
- Das ist eine Kirche.That's a church.This sentence is useful for identifying a Kirche.Tatoeba #934070 by Esperantostern, translation #1706368 by marcelostockle
- Ich gehe zur Kirche.I go to church.This sentence is useful for expressing movement toward the Kirche.Tatoeba #4105307 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #3825730 by CK
- Die Kirche in der Stadtmitte hat eine lange Geschichte.The church in the city center has a long history.
- 351 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Felix and Hannah are walking through a small village.
- FelixSiehst du die alte Kirche dort?Do you see the old church there?
- HannahJa, die Kirche ist sehr schön.Yes, the church is very beautiful.
- FelixSollen wir hineingehen?Should we go inside?
- HannahGerne, Felix.Gladly, Felix.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “church” translations and entries Kirche, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
