Übung
/ˈyːbʊŋ/
The English word practice is translated into German as Übung.
Übung refers to the act of doing something repeatedly to improve a skill, or it can refer to a specific exercise, such as a drill or a math problem. To express the action of practicing, you can use the related verb üben.
Which one should you use?
While Übung describes the repetitive act of training or a specific drill, Praxis is used to describe the practical application of a theory or a professional business, such as a medical practice.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form is Übung. The plural form is Übungen, which means exercises or practices. In the genitive singular case, the form is der Übung.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈyːbʊŋ/
Did you know?
- Unlike in English, where 'practice' can mean a habit, German uses Gewohnheit for habits and reserves Übung for intentional improvement.
- In military or emergency contexts, a drill is called an Übung. This suggests a simulated scenario intended to test a team's readiness.
- The suffix '-ung' in Übung is a common way to turn a verb into a noun, similar to how English uses '-ing' to create gerunds.
Examples in context
- Es fehlt ihr an Übung.She lacks practice.This sentence shows how to express a lack of Übung.Tatoeba #2061543 by Tamy, translation #12062980 by sundown
- Ich brauche mehr Übung.I need more practice.This sentence expresses a need for more Übung.Tatoeba #3263753 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2387501 by CK
- Die Übung täte mir gut.I could use the practice.This sentence describes how Übung would be beneficial.Tatoeba #13566135 by Waldelfe, translation #2308193 by CK
- Es ist wichtig, regelmäßig Übungen zu machen, um deine Deutschkenntnisse zu verbessern.It is important to do regular practice to improve your German skills.
- Wir sollten öfter Deutsch üben, um fließend sprechen zu können.We should practice German more often to be able to speak fluently.
- Vor der Präsentation sollten wir unsere Reden gut einüben.Before the presentation, we should practice our speeches well.
- 35 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Julia are talking about learning a musical instrument.
- LukasSpielst du das Lied schon perfekt?Do you play the song perfectly already?
- JuliaNein, ich brauche noch viel Übung.No, I still need a lot of practice.
- LukasWillst du heute gemeinsam trainieren?Do you want to train together today?
- JuliaJa, das ist eine gute Idee.Yes, that is a good idea.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Übung, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
