Preußen
/ˈprɔʏ̯sən/neuter
The English phrase 'Prussia' is translated into German as Preußen. If unsure, use Preußen.
Meaning: former German province (name)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Preußen | /ˈprɔʏ̯sən/ | neuter |
| Preussen | Liechtenstein, Switzerland, neuter |
Preußen is the name of the former German province and state.
Which one should you use?
Preußen is the standard spelling used in Germany. The spelling Preussen is used in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The spelling Preussen is specific to Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
How does it change in a sentence?
As a proper noun for a state, Preußen remains unchanged in the accusative and dative cases, such as in the phrases nach Preußen or in Preußen.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈprɔʏ̯sən/
Did you know?
- While it sounds German, the name Preußen is actually derived from the Proto-Baltic word *Prūsai.
- In modern German, calling someone preußisch is often a subtle dig at their personality, implying they are excessively punctual, stiff or overly formal.
- The term preußische Tugenden describes a set of 'Prussian virtues' including frugality and duty, which remains a relevant topic in modern German sociology.
Examples in context
- Der Militarismus war in Preußen allgegenwärtig.Militarism was ubiquitous in Prussia.This sentence is useful for discussing the presence of militarism in Preußen.Tatoeba #10037555 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #10466944 by sundown
- Friedrich der Große hat die Kartoffel in Preußen eingeführt.Frederick the Great introduced the potato to Prussia.This sentence is useful for mentioning how Frederick the Great introduced the potato to Preußen.Tatoeba #1399837 by Esperantostern, translation #1399843 by CK
- Euer Herrscher ist der König von Preußen und Deutsche Kaiser.Your sovereign is king of Prussia and emperor of Germany.This sentence is useful for describing the sovereignty of the king of Preußen.Tatoeba #2755992 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2755985 by shekitten
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Hannah are looking at an old map in a library.
- LukasWo liegt Preußen auf dieser Karte?Where is Prussia located on this map?
- HannahPreußen war ein sehr großes Gebiet.Prussia was a very large area.
- LukasStimmt, die Grenzen von Preußen waren weitläufig.True, the borders of Prussia were extensive.
- HannahDas ist faszinierend zu sehen.That is fascinating to see.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “prussia” translations and entries Preußen, Preussen, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Preußen, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
