sammeln
/ˈzaml̩n/
To gather in German is to say sammeln. Wiktionary also lists versammeln.
Meaning: to bring together, to collect (verb)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA |
|---|---|
| sammeln | /ˈzaml̩n/ /ˈzaməln/ (standard) |
| versammeln | /fɛʁˈzaməln/ |
The verb is used to describe bringing things together or collecting them. It can also be used to describe things that naturally accumulate.
Which one should you use?
sammeln is the appropriate choice when you are gathering inanimate objects or information. In contrast, if you are talking about people assembling or gathering together in a group, you should use versammeln.
How does it change in a sentence?
sammeln is a weak verb. When describing people gathering together, the reflexive form sich versammeln is frequently used.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈzaml̩n/
Did you know?
- In German, if you are gathering your thoughts or your courage, you use sammeln as in Mut sammeln.
- When people gather for a protest or a rally, the phrase sich versammeln is often associated with the legal right of assembly known as Versammlungsfreiheit.
- The prefix 'ver-' in versammeln transforms the basic act of collecting into a more organized or intentional act of bringing a group together.
Examples in context
- Hier sammeln sich Obdachlose.Homeless people gather here.This sentence shows how people might gather in a specific location using sammeln.Tatoeba #13209758 by octobaguette, translation #9951081 by ddnktr
- Wir müssen Informationen sammeln.We have to gather information.This sentence demonstrates using sammeln for gathering information.Tatoeba #562291 by Zaghawa, translation #268519 by CK
- Du musst mehr Informationen sammeln.You must gather further information.This sentence provides another example of using sammeln to gather information.Tatoeba #450699 by al_ex_an_der, translation #30428 by Alkrasnov
- Wir müssen uns versammeln, um über dieses wichtige Thema zu sprechenWe need to gather to discuss this important topic
- Wir sollten uns bald treffen, um eine Strategie zu entwickelnWe should gather soon to develop a strategy
- Wir möchten Sie alle bitten, sich am Samstag um 14:00 Uhr im Gemeindezentrum zusammenzufindenWe kindly ask you all to gather at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday in the community center
- Lasst uns am See zusammenfinden und ein spontanes Picknick machenLet's gather at the lake and have a spontaneous picnic
- 11 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Maximilian and Laura are picking mushrooms in the forest.
- MaximilianWir sollten hier viele Pilze sammeln.We should gather many mushrooms here.
- LauraHast du einen Korb dabei, Maximilian?Do you have a basket with you, Maximilian?
- MaximilianJa, ich kann sie darin sammeln.Yes, I can gather them in it.
- LauraDann fangen wir jetzt an!Then let's start now!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “gather” translations and entries sammeln, versammeln, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
