01
abseits
away from
Used as a preposition with the genitive to express spatial distance or separation from something.
example
Wir machten ein Picknick abseits der lauten Straße.
We had a picnic away from the noisy road.
abseits
offside / away
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'abseits' (away from/off to the side) derives from 'ab' (away) and 'Seite' (side). So it literally describes a position that is away from the side or from the center.
EXAMPLE
Das Haus liegt etwas abseits, mitten im Wald.
The house is located somewhat out of the way, in the middle of the forest.
Preposition vs. adverb
'Abseits' (away from/off to the side) can be used as a preposition with a noun or as a stand-alone adverb. As a preposition, it introduces a location; as an adverb, it describes a position without a direct object.
EXAMPLE
Wir saßen abseits des Trubels auf einer Parkbank.
We sat on a park bench away from the hustle and bustle.
Preposition with genitive
When 'abseits' (away from) is used as a preposition, it requires the genitive. In colloquial speech, the dative with 'von' is sometimes used incorrectly, but in written language the genitive is correct.
EXAMPLE
Ihr Ferienhaus liegt abseits der großen Touristenorte.
Their holiday home is located away from the major tourist resorts.
Compare with
abseits vs dabei
there / with you
'dabei' and 'abseits' form a contrast here. 'dabei' means that someone is present at an event or with a group, or is taking part. 'abseits' means that someone is not directly involved in the main action or is standing some distance away. So 'dabei' fits when someone is part of the situation. 'abseits' fits when someone tends to stay separate from the others or is not really taking part.
abseits
Sofia steht auf der Feier abseits und spricht mit niemandem.
Sofia is standing off to the side at the party and is not talking to anyone.
dabei
Am Samstag ist der neue Gast beim Ausflug dabei.
On Saturday, the new guest is coming along on the outing.
In real life
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