Schalter
/ˈʃaltɐ/masculine
The English word 'switch' can be translated into German as Schalter.
Schalter is a masculine noun used to describe a device that turns electric current on and off. A common specific type of this device is a Lichtschalter, which is a light switch.
Meaning: device to turn electric current on and off (noun)
Which one should you use?
Use Schalter when you are referring to the physical device (the switch) itself. To describe the action of switching or operating a device, use the verb schalten.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Schalter remains Schalter.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈʃaltɐ/
Did you know?
- The word Schaltjahr refers to a leap year, literally translating to a 'switching year' because of the way the calendar is adjusted.
- While Schalter is an electrical switch, it is also the word for a service counter or ticket window at a station or post office.
- In German, the expression umschalten is used for switching channels on a television, but it can also mean to suddenly change one's mood or attitude.
Examples in context
- Der Schalter ist ausgeschaltet.The switch is off.This sentence shows how to say the switch is turned off using Schalter.Tatoeba #1108961 by Manfredo, translation #52433 by CK
- Lass mich den Schalter reparieren.Let me fix the switch.This sentence is useful for talking about repairing the Schalter.Tatoeba #783461 by Hans_Adler, translation #249689 by CK
- Er knipste den Schalter an und tauchte den Raum in Helligkeit.He flipped the switch and threw the room into brightness.This sentence describes the action of flipping the Schalter.Tatoeba #485454 by Espi, translation #319558 by CK
- Kann jemand bitte den Schalter umlegen?Can someone please switch (flip) the switch?
- Die Umstellung auf erneuerbare Energien ist ein wichtiges Ziel.The switch to renewable energy is an important goal.
- Ich möchte bitte den Fernseher umschalten.I would like to switch the TV channels, please.
- Kannst du bitte den Radiosender wechseln?Can you please switch the radio station?
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A man and a woman are standing in a dark room during a power outage.
- LauraWo ist der Schalter?Where is the switch?
- MaximilianDer Schalter ist an der Wand.The switch is on the wall.
- LauraIch finde den Schalter nicht.I cannot find the switch.
- MaximilianHier ist er, ich drücke den Schalter.Here it is, I am pressing the switch.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “switch” translations and entries Schalter, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
