Das ergibt Sinn
The English phrase "that makes sense" is translated into German as Das ergibt Sinn.
Use this phrase to describe the logical coherence of an argument or situation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is built from Das (that), ergibt (yields/results in) and Sinn (sense).
Which one should you use?
While Das ergibt Sinn refers to logical coherence, you should use Das ist sinnvoll when describing an action or a thing that is useful or sensible.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often say Das macht Sinn by literal translation, but Das ergibt Sinn is the more standard and grammatically correct way to express this in German.
Did you know?
- The verb ergibt comes from ergeben, which can also mean 'to surrender' or 'to confess' in different contexts.
- The German word Sinn can also refer to the physical senses, such as sight or hearing, meaning the phrase is built on the same root as 'sensory' perception.
- In German, the word Sinn can be used in the phrase Sinn und Verstand, which translates to 'sense and understanding' to describe someone with common sense.
Examples in context
- Das ergibt Sinn.That makes sense.This sentence shows how to use Das ergibt Sinn.Tatoeba #1523182 by User4473, translation #780859 by sacredceltic
Example conversation
Felix explains a new rule at work to Hannah.
- HannahWarum müssen wir die Dokumente jetzt digitalisieren?Why do we have to digitize the documents now?
- FelixEs spart uns langfristig viel Zeit und Papier.It saves us a lot of time and paper in the long run.
- HannahDas ergibt Sinn, danke für die Erklärung.That makes sense, thanks for the explanation.
- FelixGerne, Hannah.You're welcome, Hannah.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
