Rede
/ˈreːdə/feminine
The German word for speech is Rede. Wiktionary also lists Ansprache.
Meaning: an oration, session of speaking (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Rede | /ˈreːdə/ | feminine |
| Ansprache | feminine |
Both Rede and Ansprache are used to mean a speech or an oration, but they are applied in different contexts.
Which one should you use?
Rede refers to a general speech or oration. In contrast, Ansprache is used for a more formal, often shorter address or a ceremonial speech, such as a welcome address or a toast.
How does it change in a sentence?
Rede is a feminine noun. Its plural form is Reden. To say you are delivering or giving a speech, use the collocation eine Rede halten.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈreːdə/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use the verb machen to say you are making or giving a speech. Instead, use the phrase eine Rede halten.
Did you know?
- The German word Rede is a distant cousin of the English word 'rede', which survives today primarily in the archaic sense of 'counsel' or 'advice'.
- In German, the word for 'speech' as a faculty of language is Sprache, while Rede specifically refers to the act of delivering a discourse.
Examples in context
- Er hielt eine Rede.He delivered a speech.This sentence is useful for showing how to use the verb with Rede.Tatoeba #1318091 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #294104 by CK
- Tom hielt eine Rede.Tom gave a speech.This sentence shows another example of delivering a speech with Rede.Tatoeba #6701695 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1094032 by CK
- Seine Rede bewegte uns.His speech moved us.This sentence demonstrates how a speech can affect an audience using Rede.Tatoeba #1315478 by al_ex_an_der, translation #1075492 by CK
- Die Präsidentin hielt eine inspirierende Rede über soziale Gerechtigkeit.The president gave an inspiring speech about social justice.
- 250 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sarah and Maximilian are preparing for a wedding.
- SarahHast du deine Rede schon geschrieben?Have you written your speech yet?
- MaximilianNein, die Rede ist noch nicht fertig.No, the speech isn't finished yet.
- SarahSoll ich dir bei der Rede helfen?Should I help you with the speech?
- MaximilianJa, das wäre wirklich toll, Sarah.Yes, that would be really great, Sarah.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “speech” translations and entries Rede, Ansprache, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Rede, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
