Natur
[naˈtuːɐ̯]feminine
The English phrase 'nature' is translated into German as Natur.
Natur refers to the natural world and its order. It can also be used to describe a person's innate character or disposition, such as in the phrase eine sanfte Natur (a gentle nature).
Meaning: the natural world and its order (noun)
Which one should you use?
While Natur is the standard word for the natural world, it also carries the meaning of a person's character.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun Natur is feminine. When you are referring to the natural world, it is almost always used with the definite article die (die Natur).
Did you know?
- While Natur is the general word, Germans often use the word Wald (forest) as a cultural shorthand for 'nature' because of the deep romanticization of woods in German history.
- While 'die Natur' refers to the outdoors, the German word 'natürlich' (the adjective form) is frequently used as an interjection meaning 'of course' in casual conversation.
- In German romanticism, 'Natur' was often personified as a living, breathing entity, a concept that deeply influenced German poetry and philosophy.
Examples in context
- Er mag die Natur.He likes nature.This sentence shows how to express that someone likes Natur.Tatoeba #10017352 by wolfgangth, translation #8479266 by CH
- Liebst du die Natur?Do you love nature?This sentence is a way to ask if someone loves Natur.Tatoeba #3521542 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #3070066 by Hybrid
- Die Natur ist schön.Nature is beautiful.This sentence describes the beauty of Natur.Tatoeba #3982844 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2239323 by Hybrid
- Der Schutz der Natur ist von großer Bedeutung.The protection of nature is of great importance.
- Die Natur bietet uns Ruhe und Erholung.Nature offers us peace and relaxation.
- In dieser Gegend gibt es viele schöne Naturparks.In this area, there are many beautiful nature parks.
- 214 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Laura and Maximilian are hiking in the mountains.
- LauraIch liebe es, in der Natur zu sein.I love being in nature.
- MaximilianIch auch, die Natur beruhigt mich immer.Me too, nature always calms me down.
- LauraSchau mal, wie schön die Natur hier ist!Look how beautiful nature is here!
- MaximilianJa, wir müssen die Natur wirklich schützen.Yes, we really have to protect nature.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nature” translations and entries Natur, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.