Pampelmuse
/pampəlˈmuːze/feminine
The English word grapefruit can be translated into German as Pampelmuse or Grapefruit.
Meaning: fruit (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Pampelmuse | /pampəlˈmuːze/ | feminine |
| Grapefruit | feminine |
Both terms refer to the fruit. Grapefruit is a very common loanword from English used frequently in modern German, particularly when reading international menus or shopping in supermarkets. Pampelmuse is the traditional German term and is often used to refer specifically to the larger, sweeter varieties such as pomelos.
Which one should you use?
While both words refer to grapefruit, Grapefruit is a direct loanword from English, whereas Pampelmuse is the traditional German term.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural of Pampelmuse is Pampelmusen. Both terms are feminine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/pampəlˈmuːze/
Did you know?
- In some regional German dialects, Pampelmuse can be used colloquially to describe someone who is perceived as round or clumsy.
- The term Pampelmuse has a Dutch ancestor, pompelmoes, which entered the German language through trade.
Examples in context
- Ich mag keine Pampelmusen.I don't like grapefruit.This sentence is useful for expressing a dislike for the plural form of Pampelmuse.Tatoeba #10124950 by wolfgangth, translation #6270836 by CK
- Die Pampelmuse schmeckt sehr sauer.The grapefruit tastes very sour.This sentence is useful for describing the sour taste of a Pampelmuse.Tatoeba #2352015 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2259323 by _undertoad
- Ich mag Grapefruits und Mandarinen.I like grapefruit and mandarins.This sentence is useful for expressing a preference for the plural form of Grapefruit.Tatoeba #8991964 by Yorwba, translation #10055214 by sundown
- Magst du Grapefruitsaft?Do you like grapefruit juice?
- Hast du schon einmal eine Grapefruit probiert?Have you ever tried a grapefruit?
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Felix and Sarah are having breakfast in a bright kitchen.
- FelixMöchtest du heute eine Pampelmuse?Would you like a grapefruit today?
- SarahJa, die Pampelmuse wäre toll.Yes, the grapefruit would be great.
- FelixSoll ich sie für dich aufschneiden?Should I cut it open for you?
- SarahDas ist sehr lieb von dir, Felix.That is very kind of you, Felix.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “grapefruit” translations and entries Pampelmuse, Grapefruit, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Grapefruit, Pampelmuse, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
