Zahlen
/ˈtsaːln̩/
Zahlen is the German word for numbers.
Zahlen refers to symbols or words used to count or measure things. While it is the general term for numbers, if you are specifically referring to single digits from 0 to 9, the word Ziffer is more precise.
Which one should you use?
Zahlen is the plural form used for numbers in general, whereas Ziffer is used specifically for single digits.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of Zahlen is Zahl.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtsaːln̩/
Did you know?
- Because Zahlen can be both a plural noun and a verb, the meaning of a sentence can change entirely depending on whether the word is capitalized.
- In German, the verb zählen means 'to count', but it is also used to mean 'to matter' or 'to count' in a social or emotional sense.
- The German verb zahlen means 'to pay', which connects the act of counting money to the act of counting itself.
Examples in context
- Die Zahlen lügen nicht.The numbers don't lie.This sentence shows how to say that numbers do not lie using Zahlen.Tatoeba #3926613 by brauchinet, translation #10791835 by ddnktr
- Tom kann gut mit Zahlen.Tom is good with numbers.This sentence demonstrates being good with numbers using Zahlen.Tatoeba #11782223 by mashi, translation #7979922 by CK
- Bitte addiere die Zahlen.Please add up the numbers.This sentence is useful for requesting to add up numbers using Zahlen.Tatoeba #817928 by Zaghawa, translation #271026 by CK
- 63 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julian and Sarah are studying for a math test together.
- JulianIch verstehe diese Zahlen nicht.I don't understand these numbers.
- SarahWelche Zahlen meinst du genau, Julian?Which numbers exactly do you mean, Julian?
- JulianDie Zahlen in der zweiten Aufgabe.The numbers in the second task.
- SarahAch, diese Zahlen sind eigentlich ganz einfach.Oh, those numbers are actually quite simple.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry zahlen.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
