01
das Alphabet
alphabet
The fixed order of all the letters of a written language. Each language has its own alphabet for forming words.
example
Kinder lernen in der ersten Klasse das Alphabet.
Children learn the alphabet in first grade.
das Alphabet
alphabet
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Origin of the word
The word 'Alphabet' (alphabet) comes from Greek. It is made up of the names of the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: 'Alpha' (α) and 'Beta' (β).
EXAMPLE
Das deutsche Alphabet basiert auf dem lateinischen Alphabet.
The German alphabet is based on the Latin alphabet.
Sentence structure and use
If you want to describe an order, you use the phrase 'nach dem Alphabet' (in alphabetical order). A common activity is sorting alphabetically.
EXAMPLE
Bitte sortieren Sie die Namensliste nach dem Alphabet.
Please sort the list of names in alphabetical order.
Typical verbs
In connection with the sequence of letters, 'Alphabet' (alphabet) is often used with verbs like 'lernen' (to learn), 'aufsagen' (to recite), 'können' (to know/be able to), or 'ordnen' (to arrange).
EXAMPLE
Die Kinder üben, das Alphabet fehlerfrei aufzusagen.
The children are practicing reciting the alphabet without mistakes.
Context clue
You can recognize the figurative meaning 'Grundlagen' (basics) by the fact that it is almost always followed by an addition that names the topic. This is often expressed with the genitive or with 'von' (of), for example 'das Alphabet der Höflichkeit' (the basics of politeness).
EXAMPLE
Pünktlichkeit und Zuverlässigkeit gehören zum Alphabet eines guten Mitarbeiters.
Punctuality and reliability are part of the basics of being a good employee.
Compare with
Alphabet vs Schrift
writing / script
'Schrift' and 'Alphabet' both have to do with the written signs of a language. 'Schrift' means the whole system used to write a language, that is, the signs and how they are used. 'Alphabet' refers more specifically to the ordered list of letters, for example from A to Z. Learners may confuse the words because an alphabet can be part of a script. But a script is more than just the sequence of letters. When you are talking about the writing system of a language, 'Schrift' fits. When you mean the letters in their order, 'Alphabet' is correct.
Alphabet
Vor der Reise übt Lisa das griechische Alphabet.
Before the trip, Lisa practices the Greek alphabet.
Schrift
Im Museum sieht Mehmet eine alte Schrift, die er nicht lesen kann.
In the museum, Mehmet sees an old script that he cannot read.
In real life
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