Guten Tag! If you’re looking to expand your German vocabulary and learn how to say “subtract,” you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore the various ways to express subtraction in German, both formally and informally. So, let’s dive in and discover how to subtract in German!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “Subtract”
When it comes to formal settings, such as academic or professional environments, it’s important to use the appropriate language. Here are some formal expressions for “subtract” in the German language:
- Subtrahieren: This is the most direct translation of “to subtract” in German. For example:
Um 10 von 20 abzuziehen, muss man 10 subtrahieren.
- Abschreiben: Although more commonly used to mean “to copy,” “abschreiben” can also be used to express “subtract” in a formal context. This term is often used in mathematics. For example:
Um 5 von 15 abzuschreiben, muss man 5 abschreiben.
Informal Expressions for “Subtract”
When conversing with friends, family, or in casual settings, you may opt for more informal ways to say “subtract” in German. Here are a few informal expressions:
- Abziehen: This informal term is commonly used when talking about subtraction in everyday conversations. For instance:
Ich muss 3 von 7 abziehen, um das Ergebnis zu bekommen.
- Wegnehmen: In informal situations, you can also use “wegnehmen” to express subtraction. Here’s an example:
Wenn ich 2 von 10 wegnehe, bleiben 8 übrig.
Regional Variations
The German language is rich with regional variations and dialects. While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood throughout the German-speaking regions, it’s worth noting that certain local variations may exist. Here are a couple of examples:
- Abzweierln: In some Austrian dialects, especially in Vienna, you might hear “abzweierln” to mean “subtracting 2” in a casual context. For example:
I mus 2 obzwirln, donn bleiben 5.
- Abmacheln: In parts of southern Germany, particularly in Bavarian dialects, “abmacheln” can be used to convey the concept of subtracting. Here’s an example:
Wemma 7 abmachelt, dann hamma no 3.
While these regional variations generally stem from dialects, the previously mentioned formal and informal expressions are understood universally in the German language.
Tips for Learning and Using German Expressions for “Subtract”
Here are some helpful tips to enhance your understanding and usage of German expressions for “subtract”:
- Practice Makes Perfect: Like any language skill, repetition and practice are key. So, use these expressions in your daily conversations or when solving mathematical problems to reinforce your learning.
- Pay Attention to Context: Ensure that you’re using the appropriate formality level based on the situation. Formal expressions belong in academic or professional environments, while informal ones are more suitable for casual settings.
- Listen and Observe: Watching movies or listening to native German speakers will help you gain exposure to various expressions, tones, and pronunciations used when discussing subtraction.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Broaden your knowledge by learning related mathematical terms in German, such as “addition” (Addition), “multiply” (multiplizieren), or “divide” (teilen).
Remember, language learning is a journey, and making mistakes is a natural part of the process. So, don’t be afraid to practice and embrace the joy of learning German!
Now that you’re familiar with both formal and informal expressions for “subtract” in German, as well as a few regional variations, you can confidently incorporate this vocabulary into your German conversations. Viel Glück (Good luck)!
