Text
/tɛkst/
In German, the verb to text is Text.
While the provided phrase is listed as a verb meaning to send a text message, the form Text is a masculine noun. As a noun, it can refer to a book, tome or other set of writings. When you want to specifically refer to a brief written message transmitted between mobile phones, you may also use SMS.
Meaning: to send a text message to (verb)
Which one should you use?
The noun Text refers to a written work or set of writings, whereas SMS is used specifically for a brief written message sent between mobile phones.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun Text is a masculine noun. Related nouns include Schriftstück, which is also masculine and Kurznachricht, which is a feminine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/tɛkst/
Did you know?
- If a German speaker says they are texting using the verb texten, it can sometimes refer to the professional act of copywriting or writing lyrics for a song.
- The word Text shares the same Latin root as the English 'text', as both descend from the Latin textus, meaning 'a web' or 'a weaving'.
- The term SMS is far more common in everyday German conversation than in modern American English, where 'text' has almost entirely replaced it.
Examples in context
- Der Text ist zu lang.The text is too long.This sentence illustrates the use of Text to describe length.Tatoeba #1884048 by Zaghawa, translation #1537542 by CM
- Wovon handelt der Text?What's the text about?This sentence uses Text to ask about the subject matter.Tatoeba #2588665 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1531543 by erikspen
- Ohne Kontext kein Text.No context, no text.This sentence shows how Text is used in an idiomatic expression regarding context.Tatoeba #10521072 by Yorwba, translation #1443606 by sadhen
- Mein Text ist fertig.My text is finished.
- Kannst du mir die Nachricht vorlesen?Can you read the message to me?
- Das Schriftstück enthält wichtige Informationen.The document contains important information.
- 155 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Laura are planning to meet up.
- LukasIch kann gerade nicht telefonieren.I cannot talk on the phone right now.
- LauraDann Text mir einfach die Adresse.Then just text me the address.
- LukasAlles klar, das mache ich sofort.All right, I will do that immediately.
- LauraDanke, ich warte auf deine Nachricht.Thanks, I am waiting for your message.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Text, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Text, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
