The ability to understand, speak, read, and write the German language. The word is usually used in the plural (Deutschkenntnisse).
example
Für diese Stelle sind sehr gute Deutschkenntnisse erforderlich.
Very good German language skills are required for this position.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'Deutsch' (German) and 'Kenntnis' (knowledge/skill). 'Kenntnis' comes from the verb 'kennen' (to know) and means knowledge or ability. 'Deutschkenntnisse' are therefore literally knowledge of the German language.
EXAMPLE
Um in Deutschland zu studieren, muss man ausreichende Deutschkenntnisse nachweisen.
To study in Germany, you have to prove sufficient German language skills.
Use in the plural
Although the singular 'die Deutschkenntnis' exists, the word is almost always used in the plural 'die Deutschkenntnisse' (German language skills). This is common when talking about a person's general language level.
EXAMPLE
In meinem Lebenslauf habe ich meine Deutschkenntnisse angegeben.
I listed my German language skills on my résumé.
Typical collocations
To describe the level, the word is often combined with adjectives such as 'grundlegende' (basic), 'gute' (good), 'sehr gute' (very good), or 'ausgezeichnete' (excellent) Deutschkenntnisse. Typical verbs are 'haben' (to have), 'verbessern' (to improve), 'nachweisen' (to prove), and 'erfordern' (to require).
EXAMPLE
Ich möchte meine Deutschkenntnisse mit einem Sprachkurs verbessern.
I would like to improve my German language skills with a language course.