setzen
/ˈzɛtsən/
To set or to place is setzen in German.
The verb setzen means to set or to place something in a specific position, or to cause someone to sit down.
Which one should you use?
setzen is a transitive verb, which means it requires a direct object. You are performing the action of placing something or someone. It is different from sitzen, which describes the state of being seated rather than the action of placing.
How does it change in a sentence?
The third person singular present tense form is setzt. The simple past tense is setzte and the past participle is gesetzt.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈzɛtsən/
Did you know?
- In German, the word setzen is used to describe the act of planting a flower or a tree, such as einen Baum setzen.
- In German, you do not just 'set' a table, you use den Tisch decken, using a verb that implies covering or spreading.
- In German, the term Satz (a noun derived from setzen) can mean a sentence, a set of things, or even a mathematical equation.
Examples in context
- Bitte setzen Sie sich.Please take a seat.
- Sie sollten Ihre Prioritäten richtig setzen.You should set your priorities right.
- Setz dich auf die Couch.Sit on the couch.
- Setz die Tasse bitte vorsichtig ab.Please set the cup down gently.
- Wir setzen die Figuren auf das Brett.We are placing the pieces on the board.
Example conversation
Laura is helping Lukas arrange the living room.
- LauraWo soll ich die Lampe setzen?Where should I place the lamp?
- LukasSetzen Sie sie bitte in die Ecke.Please place it in the corner.
- LauraDas sieht jetzt viel besser aus.That looks much better now.
- LukasJa, Lukas danke für deine Hilfe.Yes, thank you for your help.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry setzen, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
