unbenutzt
The English word "unused" is translated into German as unbenutzt. Wiktionary also lists ungebraucht.
Meaning: not used (adj)
Ways to say it
| German |
|---|
| unbenutzt |
| ungebraucht |
This word describes something that has not been used. It is typically applied to objects that are in a new or pristine state because they have not been used yet.
What does it mean word for word?
The word unbenutzt is composed of the prefix un- (not) and benutzen (to use).
Which one should you use?
unbenutzt is typically used for objects that are in a new or pristine state because they have not been used yet.
Did you know?
- The root verb benutzen can be used as a harsh insult when applied to people. To say someone is benutzt suggests they were manipulated and discarded for another's gain.
- While unbenutzt refers to objects, you would never use it to describe an unused talent or ability. For those, Germans use ungenutzt, implying a potential that has not been tapped into.
- German distinguishes between benutzen and verwenden for the act of using. While both can lead to the adjective unbenutzt, benutzen typically refers to using a tool for its intended purpose and verwenden to using a material or resource.
Examples in context
- Warum haben fast alle Männer ein reines Gewissen? Weil es unbenutzt ist.Why have almost all people got a clean conscience? Because it is unused.This sentence is useful for illustrating how unbenutzt can be used metaphorically in the context of a conscience.Tatoeba #1915146 by Esperantostern, translation #7791076 by sharris123
- Die unbenutzten Bücher stehen seit Monaten im Regal.The unused books have been sitting on the shelf for months.
- Bitte beachten Sie, dass die ungebrauchte Ware innerhalb von 30 Tagen zurückgeschickt werden muss.Please note that the unused merchandise must be returned within 30 days.
- Hast du den unbenutzten Grill schon ausprobiert?Have you tried the unused grill yet?
- Ich habe einen neuen Schreibtisch, aber er ist immer noch unbenutzt.I have a new desk, but it is still unused.
- Das Buch ist noch unbenutzt.The book is still unused.
- Ich habe einen unbenutzten Stift für dich.I have an unused pen for you.
Example conversation
Maximilian and Hannah are in an office looking for supplies.
- MaximilianHast du einen unbenutzten Notizblock?Do you have an unused notepad?
- HannahJa, hier ist einer für dich.Yes, here is one for you.
- MaximilianVielen Dank, Hannah!Thanks a lot, Hannah!
- HannahGerne, Maximilian.You're welcome, Maximilian.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “unused” translations and entries unbenutzt, ungebraucht, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
