01
erklingen
to resound
To begin to sound or ring out, often in a solemn or loud way. Used for music, voices, or bells.
example
Pünktlich um Mitternacht erklangen die Glocken des Doms.
Right at midnight, the bells of the cathedral resounded.
erklingen
to resound
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
'Erklingen' (to resound) is an inseparable verb. The prefix 'er-' often describes the beginning of an action. So the verb means 'to begin to sound'.
EXAMPLE
Als der Vorhang aufging, erklang die Ouvertüre.
When the curtain rose, the overture resounded.
Perfect tense with 'sein'
The verb 'erklingen' (to resound) forms the perfect tense with the auxiliary verb 'sein' (to be), because it describes a change of state from silence to sound.
EXAMPLE
Nach der Rede ist die Nationalhymne erklungen.
After the speech, the national anthem resounded.
Register and style
This word has an elevated, often poetic or solemn style. It is used for music, bells, or hymns, but not for everyday noises like a telephone.
EXAMPLE
Im Konzertsaal erklang eine wunderschöne Melodie.
A beautiful melody resounded in the concert hall.
Compare with
erklingen vs klingen
to sound
'klingen' and 'erklingen' are closely related because both describe an audible sound. 'klingen' is the normal, general word: something has a certain sound or produces a sound. 'erklingen' more often means that a sound begins and becomes audible. It is often used with music, voices, or bells and sounds a little more solemn. Learners may confuse the words because they look similar and both have to do with sound. In everyday language, 'klingen' is usually more natural; 'erklingen' fits especially well when music or a solemn sound begins.
erklingen
Beim Fest erklingt ein altes Lied, das viele Gäste kennen.
At the festival, an old song begins to play that many guests know.
klingen
Die Stimme des Sängers klingt heute etwas heiser.
The singer's voice sounds a little hoarse today.
In real life
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