01
bloß
just / only
Used as an adverb in the sense of 'nur' (only) or 'lediglich' (merely) to limit a statement.
example
Ich wollte bloß fragen, ob du kurz Zeit hast.
I just wanted to ask whether you have a moment.
bloß
just / bare
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The word 'bloß' is related to the verb 'entblößen' (to uncover something, to make naked). The basic idea of 'bloß' is therefore always something that is 'uncovered', 'reduced', or 'pure'.
EXAMPLE
Er stand mit bloßen Füßen im Gras.
He stood in the grass in bare feet.
Particle for emotions
In questions or requests, 'bloß' often expresses an emotion such as impatience, worry, or a warning. The meaning here is not literal, but colored by emotion.
EXAMPLE
Was hat er bloß vor?
What on earth is he planning?
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'uncovered', 'bloß' is often used in fixed phrases. Common examples are 'mit bloßen Händen' (with bare hands), 'mit bloßem Auge' (with the naked eye), or 'mit bloßen Füßen' (in bare feet).
EXAMPLE
Der Stern ist mit bloßem Auge kaum zu erkennen.
The star is barely visible to the naked eye.
Abstract use
As an adjective, 'bloß' can also reduce an abstract idea to its core. Common combinations are 'die bloße Tatsache' (the mere fact), 'der bloße Gedanke' (the mere thought), or 'der bloße Anblick' (the mere sight).
EXAMPLE
Der bloße Gedanke an die Prüfung machte sie nervös.
The mere thought of the exam made her nervous.
Compare with
bloß vs auch
also / even
'auch' and 'bloß' can both make a statement stronger in requests or warnings. But the tone is different. 'auch' often sounds like a reminder or an urgent wish: you want something to really happen. 'bloß' sounds stronger and often like a warning or threat: something must not happen under any circumstances. Learners may confuse them because both are small words and change the mood of a sentence. Pay special attention to the tone: 'auch' reminds, 'bloß' warns.
bloß
Vergiss bloß nicht den Arzttermin am Montag!
Whatever you do, don't forget the doctor's appointment on Monday!
auch
Bring zur Prüfung auch deinen Ausweis mit!
Be sure to bring your ID to the exam too!
In real life
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