murmeln
The English verb 'mutter' is translated into German as murmeln.
murmeln means to speak under one's breath.
Meaning: speak under one's breath (verb)
Which one should you use?
While 'mutter' in English means to speak indistinctly, the German word mutter is a noun meaning 'mother'. In German, murmeln is the standard way to express speaking softly or indistinctly. The noun Murren refers specifically to muttering in a complaining or discontented manner, whereas Murmeln is more neutral and refers to soft, indistinct sounds.
Related words
Did you know?
- A German speaker might use murmeln to describe the sound of a stream, not just a person's voice.
- The German word murmeln is considered onomatopoeic, meaning the word itself is intended to mimic the actual sound of soft, indistinct speech.
- The root of murmeln is linked to the sound of a brook or a stream, emphasizing the flowing, continuous nature of the sound.
Examples in context
- Hey Mutti, hast du Zeit für eine Tasse Kaffee?Hey Mom, do you have time for a cup of coffee?
- Er begann leise vor sich hin zu murmeln.He began to mutter quietly to himself.
- Bitte hör auf, so zu murmeln.Please stop muttering like that.
Example conversation
Julian and Sarah are waiting for a late bus.
- JulianDer Bus ist schon wieder zu spät.The bus is late again.
- SarahIch glaube, wir sollten ein Taxi nehmen.I think we should take a taxi.
- JulianNicht schon wieder murmeln, sag es laut!Stop muttering, say it out loud!
- SarahOkay, wir nehmen ein Taxi.Okay, we'll take a taxi.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “mutter” translations and entries murmeln, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries murmeln, CC BY-SA 4.0.
