gleich
/ɡlaɪ̯ç/
The German word for "same" is gleich.
gleich is primarily used as an adjective to describe things that are similar or identical in quality, such as having the same color or size. In certain contexts, it can also function as an adverb meaning "immediately" or "in a moment."
Meaning: not different as regards self, identical (adj)
Which one should you use?
Use gleich when you are describing two or more things that are similar or identical in quality. If you are referring to one single, specific entity that is not different from itself (the very same one), use the related forms derselbe, dieselbe or dasselbe.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
When you use the word as a noun to mean "the same thing", it is written as das Gleiche, which is capitalized and takes a neuter article.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɡlaɪ̯ç/
Did you know?
- While gleich describes similarity, the related word ebenso is often used as a polite reply meaning 'the same to you' when receiving a greeting.
- The word gleich is a cognate of the English word 'like', as both descend from a Proto-Germanic root meaning 'similar'.
- In mathematical contexts, gleich is used to express that two values are equal, serving the same purpose as the '=' sign.
Examples in context
- Ihr seht gleich aus.You guys look the same.This example shows how to use gleich to describe an appearance.Tatoeba #1020513 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #679855 by ulyssemc1
- Tun Sie das gleiche!Do the same.This example shows the use of gleich as an instruction to do the same action.Tatoeba #13015945 by Waldelfe, translation #8018370 by OsoHombre
- Ich täte das Gleiche.I'd do the same thing.This example shows the use of the noun form das Gleiche meaning "the same thing".Tatoeba #4249420 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2547318 by CK
- Die beiden Stühle sind gleichThe two chairs are the same
- Ich trage dasselbe Kleid wie gesternI am wearing the same dress as yesterday
- Ich habe denselben Beruf. Ebenfalls LehrerI have the same profession. Likewise, I am a teacher
- Genau, ich auchExactly, me too
- Schönes Wochenende – GleichfallsHave a nice weekend – Same to you
- Wir haben das Gleiche im KühlschrankWe have the same thing in the fridge
- Die beiden Schuhe sehen gleich ausThe two shoes look the same
- Wir haben genau dieselben InteressenWe have exactly the same interests
- Wir haben das Gleiche bestelltWe ordered the same thing
- 1069 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julian and Hannah are ordering food at a restaurant.
- JulianIch nehme die Pizza.I'll have the pizza.
- HannahIch nehme das Gleiche.I'll have the same.
- JulianMöchtest du auch ein Getränk?Do you want a drink too?
- HannahJa, bitte das gleiche Wasser.Yes, the same water, please.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry gleich, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gleich, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
