daneben
next to it
Indicates a position directly next to something or someone.
EXAMPLE
Der Tisch ist schön, aber der Stuhl daneben passt nicht.
The table is nice, but the chair next to it doesn't match.
daneben
next to it / off / additionally
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Meanings
daneben
off / inappropriate
Expresses that something is wrong, unsuitable, or inappropriate. Often used in the phrase 'sich daneben benehmen' (to behave badly).
EXAMPLE
Seine Bemerkung war wirklich völlig daneben.
His comment was really completely inappropriate.
daneben
besides / additionally
Means 'außerdem' (besides) or 'zusätzlich' (additionally) and refers to another activity or quality.
EXAMPLE
Er studiert Vollzeit und arbeitet daneben noch als Kellner.
He studies full-time and also works as a waiter on the side.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Daneben' is a pronominal adverb made up of 'da' and the preposition 'neben' (next to). It literally means 'next to that' or 'next to it' and refers to something that was mentioned earlier.
EXAMPLE
Dort steht mein Auto. Stell deins einfach daneben.
My car is standing there. Just park yours next to it.
Distinguishing meanings
The meaning depends strongly on context. The literal meaning is spatial ('next to something'). The figurative meaning expresses a negative judgment ('inappropriate'). A third meaning connects clauses and means 'additionally'.
EXAMPLE
Mein Schlüssel liegt auf dem Tisch und dein Handy liegt daneben.
My key is on the table and your phone is next to it.
Colloquial expression
In the meaning of 'inappropriate' or 'wrong', 'daneben' is colloquial. The phrase 'sich daneben benehmen' (to behave badly) is especially common and criticizes bad behavior.
EXAMPLE
Er hat sich bei dem Treffen total daneben benommen.
He behaved really badly at the meeting.
Compare with
daneben vs dabei
there / with you
Dabei refers to an accompanying action that takes place at the same time as another action. Daneben names an additional activity or another area of work that does not have to be carried out at the same moment. Dabei fits an immediate secondary action, while daneben is more suitable for another regular occupation.
daneben
Nora arbeitet im Büro und gibt daneben regelmäßig Abendkurse.
Nora works in an office and also regularly teaches evening classes.
dabei
Nora arbeitet im Büro und hört dabei Musik.
Nora works in an office and listens to music while doing so.
In real life
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