Zeichnung
/ˈt͡saɪ̯çnʊŋ/
The English word 'drawing' is translated into German as Zeichnung.
Zeichnung refers to the act of producing a picture.
Meaning: act of producing a picture (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound consisting of zeichnen (to draw) and the suffix -ung, which turns a verb into a feminine noun.
Which one should you use?
While Zeichnung refers to the finished product, the verb zeichnen refers to the act of drawing.
How does it change in a sentence?
Zeichnung is a feminine noun. Its plural form is Zeichnungen. In the nominative case, the definite article is die, but it changes to der in the genitive or dative cases.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtsaɪ̯çnʊŋ/
Did you know?
- In the context of a lottery or raffle, the process of 'drawing' a winner is expressed using the verb ziehen, meaning to pull, rather than zeichnen.
- In German legal or formal contexts, the verb zeichnen is used to mean 'to sign' a document, treating a signature as a formal drawing of one's name.
- The word Zeichnung can refer to the natural patterns or 'grain' found in wood or marble, describing the material's innate visual lines as a drawing.
Examples in context
- Das ist Toms Zeichnung.That's Tom's drawing.This sentence is useful for showing possession with Zeichnung.Tatoeba #9936351 by GaryGaryGary, translation #2235908 by CK
- Ist die Zeichnung fertig?Is the drawing finished?This sentence is useful for asking if a Zeichnung is finished.Tatoeba #6565897 by Esperantostern, translation #10573230 by sundown
- Seine Zeichnung gefällt mir.I like his drawing.This sentence is useful for expressing a preference for a Zeichnung.Tatoeba #2969490 by kroko, translation #11788273 by sundown
- 12 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
At an art studio, Julian and Laura are looking at art.
- JulianIst das deine neue Zeichnung?Is that your new drawing?
- LauraJa, ich habe heute daran gearbeitet.Yes, I worked on it today.
- JulianDeine Zeichnung ist wirklich wunderschön.Your drawing is truly beautiful.
- LauraVielen Dank, Julian!Thank you very much, Julian!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Zeichnung, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
