01
die Bedeutung
meaning
The sense or content of a word, sign, gesture, or action.
example
Kannst du mir die Bedeutung dieses Fremdwortes erklären?
Can you explain the meaning of this foreign word to me?
die Bedeutung
meaning / importance
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word is derived from the verb 'deuten' (to indicate, to interpret). The ending '-ung' forms a feminine noun that describes the result or process of interpreting.
EXAMPLE
Die alten Schriften sind schwer zu deuten.
The old writings are difficult to interpret.
Context clue
You can recognize the two meanings from context. If it is about the sense of words or signs, the first meaning is intended. If it is about importance, you often find adjectives like 'groß' (great), 'gering' (minor), or the expression 'von Bedeutung sein' (to be of importance).
EXAMPLE
Was ist die Bedeutung von diesem Symbol?
What is the meaning of this symbol?
Typical collocations
When it is about the meaning of a word, verbs like 'nachschlagen' (to look up), 'erklären' (to explain), or 'kennen' (to know) are often used. Typical formulations are 'die Bedeutung eines Wortes nachschlagen' (to look up the meaning of a word) or 'die genaue Bedeutung kennen' (to know the exact meaning).
EXAMPLE
Ich muss die Bedeutung dieses Fachbegriffs im Wörterbuch nachschlagen.
I need to look up the meaning of this technical term in the dictionary.
Typical collocations
To express importance, 'Bedeutung' (meaning, importance) is often combined with verbs like 'haben' (to have), 'gewinnen' (to gain), 'verlieren' (to lose), or 'beimessen' (to attach). A very common expression is 'von Bedeutung sein' (to be of importance).
EXAMPLE
Dieses Projekt hat für uns an Bedeutung gewonnen.
This project has gained importance for us.
Compare with
Bedeutung vs Rolle
role / roll
'die Rolle' and 'die Bedeutung' can both express that something is important in a situation. 'die Rolle' fits especially when you are asking what function or influence a person or thing has in a context. 'die Bedeutung' tends to emphasize how important something is or what value it has. Learners may confuse the words because you can often say both 'Das spielt eine große Rolle' (That plays a major role) and 'Das hat große Bedeutung' (That is of great importance). A practical tip: for a function within a system or group, 'Rolle' sounds more natural; for importance in general, 'Bedeutung' often sounds more precise.
Bedeutung
Die Bedeutung dieses Termins wurde ihr erst am Abend klar.
The importance of this appointment only became clear to her in the evening.
Rolle
Die Rolle der Eltern ist bei der Entscheidung sehr wichtig.
The role of the parents is very important in the decision.
In real life
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