ich bin groß
The German phrase for "I am tall" is ich bin groß.
You use ich bin groß to describe your own physical height as being above average.
What does it mean word for word?
The adjective groß literally means "big", "large" or "great", but it is the standard word used to mean "tall" when describing a person's stature.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using the word hoch to describe a person's height. While hoch means "high" or "tall" for inanimate objects like buildings or mountains, you must use groß when referring to people.
Did you know?
- In German, calling someone groß can refer to their height or their age. If a child is described as groß, it may mean they are 'grown up' rather than physically tall.
- The word groß is used in the phrase großartig, which means 'wonderful' or 'great', treating physical scale as a metaphor for quality.
- The word groß is a direct relative of the English word 'great'.
Examples in context
- Ich bin groß.I am tall.This sentence is useful for stating your height.Tatoeba #576296 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #436275 by lukaszpp
- Ich bin groß für mein Alter.I am tall for my age.
- Ich bin groß und sportlich.I am tall and athletic.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing their physical appearances.
- FelixBist du auch so groß wie ich?Are you also as tall as me?
- SarahNein, ich bin viel kleiner.No, I am much shorter.
- FelixIch bin groß, also brauche ich oft neue Hosen.I am tall, so I often need new pants.
- SarahDas verstehe ich, Felix.I understand that, Felix.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bin, groß, ich, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
