Marktplatz
/ˈmaʁktˌplat͡s/masculine
The English word 'marketplace' is translated into German as Marktplatz.
Marktplatz refers to an open area in a town that houses a public market.
Meaning: open area in a town housing a public market (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of Markt (market) and Platz (place/square), literally meaning 'market place'.
How does it change in a sentence?
Marktplatz is a masculine noun. In the singular, it takes the genitive ending -es to become Marktplatzes (of the marketplace). The plural form of the word is Marktplätze.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmaʁktˌplats/
Did you know?
- In many German towns, the Marktplatz was historically the site of the 'Pranger', a pillory used for public shaming and punishment.
- In many German-speaking regions, the Marktplatz is the traditional site for the 'Maibaum' ceremony. Every May, a large decorated tree is erected in the square to celebrate spring and community spirit.
- In German, the word Platz within Marktplatz can also mean 'seat' or 'space'. This creates a linguistic connection between a public square and the literal physical room or seating available in a venue.
Examples in context
- Wo ist der Marktplatz?Where's the marketplace?This sentence is useful for asking for the location of the Marktplatz.Tatoeba #1503723 by Esperantostern, translation #7857745 by shekitten
- Es ist nicht weit vom Marktplatz.It's not far from the marketplace.This sentence is useful for describing the distance from the Marktplatz.Tatoeba #11182633 by Boshnjanin, translation #12119351 by sundown
- Der Marktplatz ist der zentrale öffentliche Platz der Stadt.The marketplace is the city's central public square.This sentence is useful for defining the Marktplatz as a central public square.Tatoeba #1251631 by al_ex_an_der, translation #8838633 by sundown
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hannah and Maximilian are planning their afternoon in the city.
- HannahGehen wir heute auf den Marktplatz?Are we going to the marketplace today?
- MaximilianJa, ich möchte dort Obst kaufen.Yes, I want to buy fruit there.
- HannahDer Marktplatz ist am besten am Vormittag.The marketplace is best in the morning.
- MaximilianEinverstanden, lass uns jetzt losgehen.Agreed, let's go now.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “marketplace” translations and entries Marktplatz, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
