Nudeln
/ˈnuːdl̩n/
The English word pasta is translated into German as Nudeln.
Nudeln is the general term used to refer to a dish or serving of noodles or pasta. While English speakers might use the word 'pasta' to specifically denote Italian-style varieties, Germans use Nudeln for all types of noodles.
Meaning: dish or serving (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Swabia region, a popular type of homemade pasta known as Spätzle is commonly used.
How does it change in a sentence?
Nudeln is a plural noun and is used with the plural definite article die.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈnuːdl̩n/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use the singular form Nudel when referring to a dish of pasta. In German, you should use the plural Nudeln to refer to the meal.
Did you know?
- While Nudeln is the standard term, the word Pasta has become a trendy loanword in German used specifically to signal an authentic Italian dining experience.
- In some regions, the word Teigwaren is used on packaging to describe 'pasta' or 'noodles', which literally translates to 'dough-wares'.
- In some German dialects, especially in the south, you might hear Nudeln used to refer to small dumplings rather than long strands of pasta.
Examples in context
- Tom ißt gerne Nudeln.Tom likes pasta.This sentence shows how to express a preference for eating Nudeln.Tatoeba #13636844 by Waldelfe, translation #8589545 by CK
- Ich habe Lust auf Nudeln.I fancy some pasta.This sentence is useful for expressing a craving for Nudeln.Tatoeba #10039732 by Yorwba, translation #10047103 by sundown
- Nudeln kochen ist einfach.Cooking pasta is easy.This sentence demonstrates a statement about the ease of cooking Nudeln.Tatoeba #2506152 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2503322 by Hybrid
- Ich liebe Nudeln mit Tomatensoße.I love pasta with tomato sauce.
- Könnten Sie mir bitte die Teigwaren empfehlen?Could you please recommend me the pasta?
- Sollen wir heute Abend Pasta kochen?Shall we cook pasta tonight?
- Die Pasta im italienischen Restaurant war vorzüglich.The pasta at the Italian restaurant was excellent.
- 25 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are deciding what to eat for lunch.
- SarahMöchtest du heute Nudeln essen?Would you like to eat pasta today?
- FelixJa, das klingt sehr gut.Yes, that sounds very good.
- SarahIch mache uns schnelle Nudeln.I will make us some quick pasta.
- FelixDanke, Sarah, du bist toll.Thanks, Sarah, you are great.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Nudeln, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
