buzzing / grumbling
das Brummen
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buzzing
A deep, usually steady and prolonged sound produced by people, animals, or technical devices.
Das gleichmäßige Brummen des Kühlschranks war nachts deutlich zu hören.
The steady buzzing of the refrigerator was clearly audible at night.
grumbling
Quiet, indistinct speech in a deep voice used to express dissatisfaction or annoyance.
Mit einem unzufriedenen Brummen beschwerte er sich über die zusätzliche Arbeit.
He complained about the additional work with a dissatisfied grumble.
| gender | neuter das |
|---|---|
| genitive | des Brummens |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | das Brummen | – |
| accusative | das Brummen | – |
| dative | dem Brummen | – |
| genitive | des Brummens | – |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Das Brummen' (buzzing / grumbling) belongs to the word family of the verb 'brummen' (to buzz / to grumble) and, depending on the context, refers either to the sound produced or to the action or utterance itself. This connection helps you recognize the noun in new compounds and descriptions as well.
Das Brummen des Motors wurde mit der Zeit immer lauter.
The buzzing of the engine grew louder and louder over time.
For technical or animal sounds, more specific descriptions are often used, such as 'gleichmäßiges Brummen' (steady buzzing), 'lautes Brummen' (loud buzzing), or 'Brummen des Motors' (the buzzing of the engine). It is also common to indicate where the buzzing comes from.
Das tiefe Brummen der Klimaanlage störte ihn beim Einschlafen.
The deep buzzing of the air conditioner disturbed him as he was falling asleep.
The meaning of 'Brummen' (grumbling) as an utterance can usually be recognized from the fact that a person is the source and that verbs of speaking or reacting establish the context. Words such as 'unzufrieden' (dissatisfied), 'ärgerlich' (annoyed), or 'vor sich hin' (to oneself) also point to this meaning.
Nach der langen Besprechung hörte man nur noch sein ärgerliches Brummen.
After the long meeting, all you could hear was his annoyed grumbling.
