Blitz
/blɪts/masculine
The English phrase "lightning bolt" is translated into German as Blitz.
Blitz refers specifically to a single visible lightning discharge.
Meaning: single visible lightning discharge (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Blitz is Blitze. When used as a direct object in a sentence, the masculine noun changes to einen Blitz.
How do you pronounce it?
/blɪts/
Did you know?
- In German, a 'flash' of inspiration is called a Geistesblitz, which literally translates to a 'spirit-lightning' or 'mind-bolt'.
- The German word Blitz shares a common ancestor with the English words 'bleach' and 'bleak'. Both sets of words describe things that are bright, shining, or remarkably white.
- In German, a 'Blitzkrieg' is a term that literally translates to 'lightning war'. It describes a specific military tactic involving highly concentrated, sudden, and overwhelming force.
Examples in context
- Ich habe einen Blitz gesehen.I saw a lightning bolt.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use Blitz as a direct object.Tatoeba #11037600 by carlosalberto, translation #11021396 by shekitten
- Der Blitzschlag hat das Gebäude beschädigt.The lightning bolt damaged the building.
- Wow, der Blitz war wirklich hell!Wow, the lightning bolt was really bright!
- Schau mal, dieser Blitz war riesig!Look, this lightning bolt was huge!
- Ein heller Blitz erhellte den Himmel.A bright lightning bolt illuminated the sky.
- Der Blitz schlug direkt in den Baum ein.The lightning bolt struck directly into the tree.
Example conversation
Felix and Laura are watching a storm from the window.
- FelixHast du diesen Blitz gerade gesehen, Laura?Did you just see that lightning bolt, Laura?
- LauraJa, er war wirklich sehr nah!Yes, it was really very close!
- FelixJetzt kommt sicher gleich der Donner.Now the thunder will surely come soon.
- LauraDas stimmt, Felix. Ich habe Angst.That's true, Felix. I am scared.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “lightning bolt” translations and entries Blitz, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Blitz, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
