01
der Campus
campus
The grounds and buildings of a university, college, or sometimes a large company.
example
Die neue Bibliothek befindet sich direkt auf dem Campus.
The new library is located right on campus.
der Campus
campus
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Meanings
Usage tips
Origin of the word
'Campus' is a modern loanword from American English, originally from Latin, where it means 'field'. In German, it is used for the grounds of a university.
EXAMPLE
Viele Studierende verbringen ihre Pausen auf dem Campus.
Many students spend their breaks on campus.
Correct preposition
The word 'Campus' is almost always used with the preposition 'auf'. To describe a position, you use the dative ('auf dem Campus' = on campus). To describe movement there, you use the accusative ('auf den Campus' = onto/to the campus).
EXAMPLE
Die Mensa befindet sich auf dem Campus.
The cafeteria is located on campus.
Typical collocations
Common expressions are 'auf dem Campus leben' (to live on campus, in a student residence), 'der Campus der Universität' (the university campus), or 'ein großer/moderner/neuer Campus' (a large/modern/new campus).
EXAMPLE
Die Universität hat einen sehr modernen Campus mit vielen Grünflächen.
The university has a very modern campus with lots of green spaces.
Compare with
Campus vs Universität
university
'Universität' and 'Campus' can both have to do with the place where students learn and work. But 'Universität' first means the institution itself, that is, the organization for study and research. It can also mean the buildings and grounds. 'Campus' refers more specifically to the grounds and buildings of a university or higher education institution. When you are talking about degree programs, research, or qualifications, 'Universität' is more natural. When you are talking about paths, buildings, lawns, or meeting places on the grounds, 'Campus' fits better. The words are easy to confuse because in everyday language people often say they are 'an der Universität' (at the university), even though they are actually standing on campus.
Campus
Auf dem Campus gibt es eine Bibliothek, eine Mensa und viele Sitzplätze im Freien.
On campus there is a library, a cafeteria, and many outdoor seating areas.
Universität
Sie hat die Universität gewechselt, weil ihr neues Studienfach dort besser passt.
She changed universities because her new degree program is a better fit there.
In real life
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