Satz
/zat͡s/masculine
The German word for sentence is Satz.
Satz refers to a grammatically complete series of words consisting of a subject and a predicate. Depending on the context, it can also mean a 'set' (such as a set of tools) or a 'clause/maxim'.
Meaning: grammatically complete series of words consisting of a subject and predicate (noun)
Which one should you use?
While Satz is the standard term for a grammatical sentence, it is distinct from its other meanings like a 'set' or a 'maxim' which are determined by context.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Satz is Sätze. When using the genitive singular to say 'of the sentence', use des Satzes.
How do you pronounce it?
/zats/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Be careful not to use Satz when you mean to declare a judicial sentence on a convicted person. For that action, use the verb verurteilen.
Did you know?
- The German word Satz shares its roots with the Yiddish word זעץ (zets), which means 'a punch'.
- In the world of classical music, a Satz is the word used for a 'movement' of a symphony or sonata.
- A mathematical formula or a logical theorem is referred to as a Satz in German.
Examples in context
- Wo ist mein Satz?Where is my sentence?This sentence shows how to ask for the location of a specific Satz.Tatoeba #744885 by Vortarulo, translation #744890 by Vortarulo
- Was für ein Satz!What a sentence!This sentence is used to express exclamation about a Satz.Tatoeba #1391370 by al_ex_an_der, translation #370630 by saeb
- Das ist ein Satz.This is a sentence.This sentence is a simple identification of a Satz.Tatoeba #4776760 by Germic, translation #396738 by FeuDRenais
- Der Hund bellt.The dog barks.
- Mein Bruder spielt Fußball.My brother plays soccer.
- Morgen gehen wir ins Kino.Tomorrow we are going to the cinema.
- 897 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Sarah are studying together in a library.
- LukasSarah, wie findest du diesen Satz?Sarah, what do you think of this sentence?
- SarahDer Satz ist grammatikalisch korrekt.The sentence is grammatically correct.
- LukasGlaubst du, er ist zu kompliziert?Do you think it is too complicated?
- SarahNein, er ist gut verständlich.No, it is easy to understand.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sentence” translations and entries Satz, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Satz, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
