Toilettenartikel
The English phrase "toiletries" is translated into German as Toilettenartikel.
Toilettenartikel is most commonly used in retail contexts, such as when writing a shopping list or reading a sign in a store.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound noun consisting of Toiletten (toilet/bathroom) and Artikel (articles/items).
Which one should you use?
While Toilettenartikel is the standard term for toiletries, you can also use Körperpflegeprodukte to describe personal care or body care products.
How does it change in a sentence?
Toilettenartikel is a singular noun that can also function as a plural noun without changing its ending.
Did you know?
- While Toilettenartikel is used for shopping, Germans often use the term Kulturbeutel (literally 'culture bag') to describe the specific toiletry bag used for travel.
- The term Toilette entered German from the French word toilette, which originally referred to the cloth used to cover a dressing table.
- The word Körperpflegeprodukte is an example of a German 'Bandwurmwort' (tapeworm word), a compound noun that can be extended almost indefinitely by adding more descriptors.
Examples in context
- Ich suche nach BadezimmerartikelnI am looking for toiletries
- Ich bevorzuge natürliche PflegeprodukteI prefer natural personal care items
- Wo finde ich die Pflegeprodukte?Where can I find the personal care items?
- Können Sie mir sagen, wo ich die Hygieneartikel finde?Can you tell me where I can find the hygiene products?
- Ich muss noch Toilettenartikel kaufen.I still need to buy toiletries.
- Sind alle Toilettenartikel im Koffer?Are all the toiletries in the suitcase?
- Vergiss die Toilettenartikel nicht.Don't forget the toiletries.
Example conversation
Hannah and Julian are packing for a weekend trip.
- HannahHast du die Toilettenartikel eingepackt?Did you pack the toiletries?
- JulianJa, alles ist bereit.Yes, everything is ready.
- HannahGut, dann können wir losfahren.Good, then we can go.
- JulianIch nehme auch meine Zahnbürste mit.I'll take my toothbrush too.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Toilettenartikel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
