Deutsch lernen
/dɔʏ̯t͡ʃ ˈlɛrnən/word by word
The English phrase "learning german" is translated into German as Deutsch lernen.
Deutsch lernen is used to describe the act of acquiring the ability to speak and understand the German language. If you want to imply a deeper or more active engagement with the language, you might instead use the phrase Sich mit der deutschen Sprache beschäftigen.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Deutsch lernen is composed of the noun Deutsch (German) and the infinitive verb lernen (to learn).
Which one should you use?
The more formal expression Das Erlernen der deutschen Sprache translates to "the learning of the German language".
How does it change in a sentence?
When using this as an infinitive construction or within a subordinate clause, such as in the sentence "It is fun to learn German", you must add zu before the verb to get Deutsch zu lernen.
How do you pronounce it?
/dɔʏ̯tʃ ˈlɛrnən/
When do people say it?
A common response is Viel Erfolg!, which means "Good luck!"
Did you know?
- The word Deutsch originally meant 'of the people' or 'popular' rather than a specific nationality. It comes from a root describing the common vernacular spoken by ordinary people, as opposed to the Latin used by scholars.
- In Germany, the process of Deutsch lernen often involves a specific legal certification called Integrationkurs for new residents to prove their language proficiency.
Examples in context
- Deutsch lernen ist wichtig.Learning German is important.This sentence shows how to use Deutsch lernen as the subject of a sentence.Tatoeba #9840273 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #9844707 by Ooneykcall
- Deutsch lernen kann Spaß machen.Learning German can be fun.This sentence shows how Deutsch lernen can be used to describe a potential experience.Tatoeba #7580724 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #8183011 by Ariel120292
- Wir wissen, dass Sie Deutsch lernen.We know that you're learning German.This sentence shows how to use Deutsch lernen within a subordinate clause.Tatoeba #7040138 by felix63, translation #11797185 by sundown
- In unserer Sprachschule bieten wir viele Kurse für das Erlernen der deutschen Sprache an.At our language school, we offer various courses for learning the German language.
- Der Deutschunterricht an dieser Universität ist hervorragend.The German language instruction at this university is excellent.
- Ich habe gerade angefangen, Deutsch zu lernen.I have just started learning German.
- Mein Bruder beschäftigt sich schon seit Jahren intensiv mit der deutschen Sprache.My brother has been actively engaged in learning the German language for years.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Hannah are talking about their weekend plans at a café.
- LukasMöchtest du am Samstag Deutsch lernen?Do you want to learn German on Saturday?
- HannahJa, das ist eine gute Idee.Yes, that is a good idea.
- LukasSollen wir in die Sprachschule gehen?Should we go to the language school?
- HannahGerne, ich freue mich darauf.Gladly, I am looking forward to it.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (Deutsch, lernen) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Deutsch, deutsch, lernen, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
