Schnur
/ʃnuːr/feminine
The German word for string is Schnur.
Schnur refers to a long, thin structure made from twisted threads. It is used for functional, thin cords used for tying or hanging things, rather than decorative thread (Faden).
Meaning: long, thin structure made from twisted threads (noun)
Which one should you use?
While Schnur refers to a general string or cord, the word Seil is used for much thicker, heavier ropes.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Schnur is a feminine noun. The plural of Schnur is Schnüre.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʃnuːr/
Did you know?
- A German musician might refer to a 'string instrument' as a Saiteninstrument. They use the word Saite for the strings on a violin or guitar rather than Schnur.
- The word Schnur is a distant relative of the English word 'snare'. Both words trace back to the same ancient Germanic roots describing something twisted or coiled.
- If you want to say something is 'on a string' in a figurative sense, such as being controlled, Germans might use the term an der Leine halten, which literally means 'to hold on a leash'.
Examples in context
- Das ist eine feste Schnur.This string is strong.This sentence shows how to describe a strong Schnur.Tatoeba #712378 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #60603 by CK
- Schnur wird meterweise verkauft.String is sold by the metre.This sentence illustrates that Schnur can be sold by the metre.Tatoeba #2851160 by al_ex_an_der, translation #10516010 by sundown
- Schneide bitte diese Schnur durch.Please cut this string.This sentence shows how to ask someone to cut a Schnur.Tatoeba #11166678 by brauchinet, translation #11166014 by CK
- Kannst du bitte die Schnur festbinden?Can you please tie the string securely?
- Meine Schnürsenkel sind immer wieder locker.My shoelaces keep coming untied.
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Julia are packing a box for a move.
- LukasHast du eine Schnur für den Karton?Do you have a string for the box?
- JuliaJa, ich habe eine blaue Schnur hier.Yes, I have a blue string here.
- LukasIst die Schnur lang genug?Is the string long enough?
- JuliaJa, sie reicht völlig aus.Yes, it is completely sufficient.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “string” translations and entries Schnur, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Schnur, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
