Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Zeitplan | masculine | |
| Termin | /tɛʁˈmiːn/ | masculine |
| Programm | /proˈɡram/ | neuter |
In German, the word you choose for schedule depends on whether you are referring to a timeline of events, a specific appointment or an agenda for an event. Use Zeitplan for a sequence of operations or a timeline. Use Programm when discussing a schedule of events like a conference or a performance. Use Termin when the concept of a schedule refers to a specific appointment or a deadline.
What does it mean word for word?
The word Zeitplan is a compound noun made of Zeit, meaning time and Plan, meaning plan.
Which one should you use?
There are distinct differences between the available forms: Zeitplan refers to a time schedule or a sequence of events over a specific period. Termin refers to the individual time slots or specific appointments within a schedule. Programm is used for a schedule of events, such as a performance or a conference program, rather than personal time management.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Zeitplan and Termin are masculine nouns. Programm is a neuter noun.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using Termin to mean a general schedule or a timetable. In German, Termin specifically refers to a fixed appointment or a deadline. Using it for a general plan is a common error for English speakers.
Did you know?
- The German word Programm can refer to a schedule of events, but it is also used to describe a political party's platform or manifesto.
- The word Programm shares a root with the English word 'program', which both derive from the Ancient Greek word for a public notice or announcement.
- A common mistake for learners is using Termin to mean a general timetable, like a bus schedule. For a transport timetable, you must use Fahrplan, which combines 'drive' and 'plan'.
Examples in context
- Wir liegen im Zeitplan.We're on schedule.This sentence shows how to express being on schedule using Zeitplan.Tatoeba #9969406 by wolfgangth, translation #1111606 by Scott
- Ich hätte gern einen Termin.I'd like to schedule an appointment.This sentence is useful for requesting an appointment using Termin.Tatoeba #3853938 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #3853879 by CK
- Standest du unter Termindruck?Were you on a tight schedule?This sentence demonstrates how to ask about being under time pressure or a tight schedule using Termin.Tatoeba #8836689 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #4013415 by CK
- Der Terminplan für die Konferenz ist fertigThe schedule for the conference is ready
- Ich habe meinen Terminplan für die Woche bereits organisiertI have already organized my schedule for the week
- Der Ablaufplan der Veranstaltung ist klar und detailliertThe schedule of the event is clear and detailed
- Kannst du mir bitte deinen Ablaufplan für den Tag geben?Can you please provide me with your schedule for the day?
- Bitte schicken Sie mir den Zeitplan für das ProjektPlease send me the schedule for the project
- Lass uns einen Plan für das Wochenende machenLet's make a schedule for the weekend
- Der Ablauf der Feier steht noch nicht festThe schedule of the celebration is not yet fixed
- Was für ein Programm hast du für den Abend geplant?What schedule/program do you have planned for the evening?
- 56 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two colleagues are discussing a construction project.
- FelixHannah, hast du den neuen Zeitplan gesehen?Hannah, have you seen the new schedule?
- HannahJa, Felix, er sieht sehr kompliziert aus.Yes, Felix, it looks very complicated.
- FelixWir müssen diesen Zeitplan unbedingt einhalten.We absolutely must stick to this schedule.
- HannahIch werde mein Bestes geben, ihn zu befolgen.I will do my best to follow it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “schedule” translations and entries Zeitplan, Termin, Programm, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Programm, Termin, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
