das ABC
/das ˌa(ː)beˈtseː/word by word
The English phrase "the abc's" is translated into German as das ABC.
Did you know?
- If you are learning the basics of a new subject, a German might say you are learning das A und O, which literally translates to 'the A and O'.
- When singing the alphabet in German, the letter 'W' is pronounced like the English 'V', which can make the 'ABC' song sound unfamiliar to English ears.
- The article das is a relative of the English word 'that'. They both descend from the Proto-Germanic word *þat.
Examples in context
- Das ABC ist die Basis für alles.The ABC's are the basis for everything.
- Sie lernt gerade das ABC.She is learning the ABC's right now.
- Kannst du mir das ABC vorsagen?Can you recite the ABC's to me?
Example conversation
Laura is helping Lukas study for a language test.
- LauraHast du das ABC schon gelernt?Have you learned the ABCs already?
- LukasNein, das ABC ist noch schwierig.No, the ABCs are still difficult.
- LauraIch kann dir dabei helfen.I can help you with that.
- LukasDanke, Laura, das ist nett.Thanks, Laura, that is nice.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (das, ABC) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries das, CC BY-SA 4.0.
