Schreibtisch
/ˈʃʁaɪ̯pˌtɪʃ/masculine
The English word "desk" is translated into German as Schreibtisch.
Schreibtisch refers to a table specifically used for writing, reading or study-related tasks.
Meaning: table for writing and reading (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of schreiben (to write) and Tisch (table), literally meaning "writing desk".
Which one should you use?
While Tisch is the general word for any table, Schreibtisch is used specifically for a desk used for work or study.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Schreibtisch is Schreibtische.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʃʁaɪ̯pˌtɪʃ/
Did you know?
- A very small, often decorative desk used in historical settings might be called a Sekretär in German, rather than a Schreibtisch.
- In German, if you say you are 'sitting at the desk' using am Schreibtisch, it implies you are currently working, not just physically located there.
- If you are working from home, you might use a Stehschreibtisch, which literally translates to 'stand-writing-desk' or a standing desk.
Examples in context
- Tom aß am Schreibtisch.Tom ate at his desk.This sentence shows how to use Schreibtisch to describe where someone is eating.Tatoeba #6971420 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #6887043 by Hybrid
- Das ist mein Schreibtisch.This is my desk.This sentence is useful for identifying a piece of furniture using Schreibtisch.Tatoeba #817801 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #55622 by CK
- Mein Schreibtisch ist alt.My desk is old.This sentence demonstrates how to describe the condition of a Schreibtisch.Tatoeba #1352767 by Esperantostern, translation #250633 by CK
- In der Chefetage finden Sie den Schreibtisch des Geschäftsführers.You will find the CEO's desk in the executive suite.
- Ich habe mein Buch auf dem Schreibtisch liegen lassen.I left my book on the desk.
- Kannst du mir einen Stift vom Tisch geben?Can you pass me a pen from the desk?
- Ich mache meine Hausaufgaben am Küchentisch anstatt am Schreibtisch.I do my homework at the kitchen table instead of the desk.
- 372 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Felix and Hannah are in a home office.
- FelixIst das dein neuer Schreibtisch?Is that your new desk?
- HannahJa, er ist sehr groß.Yes, it is very large.
- FelixEr sieht sehr modern aus.It looks very modern.
- HannahDanke, Felix.Thanks, Felix.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “desk” translations and entries Schreibtisch, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
