das Wetter ist schön
The English phrase 'the weather is nice' is translated into German as das Wetter ist schön.
This phrase is used to state that the current weather is pleasant. You might also use Das Wetter ist gut to express that the weather is good, or simply say Sonnig if you want to say it is sunny.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase das Wetter ist schön breaks down into das Wetter (the weather), ist (is) and schön (beautiful or nice).
Which one should you use?
In the context of describing weather, schön is the standard way to say the weather is 'nice' or 'pleasant', even though it can also mean 'beautiful'.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you wish to use 'nice weather' as a noun phrase (for example, to say 'We have nice weather'), you should use the form schönes Wetter to ensure the adjective matches the neuter noun Wetter.
Did you know?
- The word Wetter comes from an ancient root meaning 'instrument', effectively describing the weather as the 'tool' or 'means' by which the wind blows.
- Even though 'the weather is nice' is a simple statement, Germans often use it as a safe, polite 'small talk' starter to avoid deeper topics with strangers.
- In some German contexts, saying Das Wetter ist schön can be used sarcastically during a rainstorm to express frustration with the irony of the situation.
Examples in context
- Das Wetter ist schön heute.The weather is nice today.
- Schau mal, das Wetter ist schön!Look, the weather is nice!
Example conversation
Felix and Sarah are walking in a park on a sunny afternoon.
- FelixDas Wetter ist schön, oder?The weather is nice, isn't it?
- SarahJa, es ist wirklich warm.Yes, it is really warm.
- FelixWir sollten im Park bleiben.We should stay in the park.
- SarahGute Idee, Felix.Good idea, Felix.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Wetter, das, schön, CC BY-SA 4.0.
