01
die Bürste
brush
A tool with bristles that is used for cleaning, arranging, or smoothing surfaces or hair.
example
Ich brauche eine neue Bürste, um meine Schuhe zu putzen.
I need a new brush to clean my shoes.
die Bürste
brush
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'die Bürste' (brush) is the basis for the verb 'bürsten' (to brush). This verb describes exactly the activity you do with a brush.
EXAMPLE
Er bürstete den Staub von seiner Jacke.
He brushed the dust off his jacket.
Typical compounds
The word 'Bürste' (brush) is very often used as the base word in compound nouns. The first part of the word then describes the exact purpose it is used for.
EXAMPLE
Für die Reinigung der Flasche brauchst du eine spezielle Flaschenbürste.
You need a special bottle brush to clean the bottle.
Context clue
When 'Bürste' (crew cut) is used in connection with hair, hairstyle, or appearance, it often refers to the short haircut. Typical verbs in this context are 'tragen' (to wear) or 'sich schneiden lassen' (to have cut).
EXAMPLE
Er trägt seit seiner Zeit beim Militär eine Bürste.
He has worn a crew cut since his time in the military.
Fixed expression
The expression 'jemandem eine Bürste verpassen' means to sharply criticize or reprimand a person. The person receiving the criticism is always in the dative.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem verlorenen Spiel hat der Trainer der Mannschaft eine ordentliche Bürste verpasst.
After the lost game, the coach gave the team a proper dressing-down.
Compare with
Bürste vs Kamm
comb / ridge / crest
'der Kamm' and 'die Bürste' are both objects you can use to arrange hair. The difference lies in their shape and use. A 'Kamm' has firm teeth and is good for parting, detangling, or precisely styling hair. A 'Bürste' has many bristles and is also used for smoothing hair or cleaning surfaces. Learners may confuse the words because you use both in the bathroom in the morning. For hair, both are possible, but for shoes, clothing, or the floor, you normally say 'Bürste', not 'Kamm'.
Bürste
Zu Hause habe ich mit der Bürste die nassen Haare geglättet.
At home, I smoothed my wet hair with the brush.
Kamm
Nach dem Duschen zieht Max mit dem Kamm einen geraden Scheitel.
After showering, Max uses the comb to make a straight part.
In real life
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