Informatik
/ɪnfɔɐ̯ˈmaːtɪk/feminine
The German phrase for "computer science" is Informatik. Wiktionary also lists Computerwissenschaft.
Meaning: study of computers and their architecture (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Informatik | /ɪnfɔɐ̯ˈmaːtɪk/ | feminine |
| Computerwissenschaft | feminine |
Informatik refers to the study of computers and their architecture.
What does it mean word for word?
Informatik is a portmanteau of Information and the suffix -ik, which is used to form nouns denoting a science or discipline. It literally means the science of information.
Which one should you use?
Informatik is the standard and most common term used for the academic discipline and the field of study. In contrast, Computerwissenschaft is a literal translation of "computer science" and is much less common in everyday academic or professional German.
How does it change in a sentence?
Informatik is a feminine noun and takes the article die in the nominative case.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɪnfɔɐ̯ˈmaːtɪk/
Did you know?
- The term Informatik was coined in the 1950s by German scientists to create a distinct discipline that was not just a branch of mathematics or electrical engineering.
- In German universities, Informatik covers a much broader range of topics than 'computer science' in the US, often including systemic information theory and communication science.
- While English speakers use 'computer science' for both the degree and the job, a German professional in Informatik might describe themselves as an Informatiker or Informatikerin.
Examples in context
- Es ist wichtig, Informatik zu studieren.It's important to study computer science.This sentence is useful for expressing the importance of studying Informatik.Tatoeba #12742418 by Waldelfe, translation #9284515 by shekitten
- Tom liebt das Programmieren und die Informatik.Tom loves programming and computer science.This sentence shows how someone might express a love for both programming and Informatik.Tatoeba #10456799 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #5078322 by Hybrid
- Die Informatik hat in unserem Land große Fortschritte gemacht.Computer science has made rapid progress in our country.This sentence describes the progress made within the field of Informatik.Tatoeba #649619 by samueldora, translation #29188 by trieuho
- Ich habe ein Studium in Informatik absolviert.I completed a degree in computer science.
- Die Informatik hat eine große Bedeutung für die moderne Gesellschaft.Computer science has great significance for modern society.
- Die Veranstaltung behandelt verschiedene Themen der Informatik.The event covers various topics in computer science.
- Ich interessiere mich sehr für Computerwissenschaften.I am very interested in computer science.
- 9 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Felix and Laura are discussing their university majors.
- FelixWas studierst du an der Uni?What are you studying at the university?
- LauraIch studiere Informatik.I am studying computer science.
- FelixIst Informatik ein schweres Fach?Is computer science a difficult subject?
- LauraJa, aber es macht mir Spaß.Yes, but I enjoy it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “computer science” translations and entries Informatik, Computerwissenschaft, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
