das Fenster
window
An opening in a wall, usually fitted with glass, that lets light and air into a room.
EXAMPLE
Mach bitte das Fenster auf, es ist sehr warm hier drin.
Please open the window; it's very warm in here.
das Fenster
window
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Meanings
das Fenster
window
In computing, a rectangular area on the screen in which a program or certain content is displayed.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe zu viele Fenster geöffnet und mein Computer ist langsam.
I have too many windows open, and my computer is slow.
das Fenster
window
A limited period of time in which a certain action is possible or favorable. Often used as 'Zeitfenster' (time window).
EXAMPLE
Das Start-up hat nur ein kleines Fenster, um Investoren zu überzeugen.
The start-up has only a small window to convince investors.
Usage tips
Movement or position
Pay attention to the prepositions: 'ans Fenster' (to the window, with accusative) describes movement toward the window, while 'am Fenster' (at/by the window, with dative) describes a position.
EXAMPLE
Er geht ans Fenster, um die Vögel zu beobachten.
He goes to the window to watch the birds.
Typical verbs
In connection with a real window, the verbs 'öffnen' (to open), 'schließen' (to close), and 'putzen' (to clean) are often used. Colloquially, you also hear 'aufmachen' (to open) and 'zumachen' (to close).
EXAMPLE
Könntest du bitte das Fenster schließen? Es zieht.
Could you please close the window? There's a draft.
Context clue: computer
When talking about computers, programs, or the internet, 'Fenster' means a separate area on the screen. Typical verbs here are 'öffnen' (to open), 'schließen' (to close), or 'minimieren' (to minimize).
EXAMPLE
Schließe bitte alle unnötigen Fenster, damit der Computer schneller wird.
Please close all unnecessary windows so the computer gets faster.
Figurative meaning
In the figurative meaning, 'Fenster' describes a limited period of time. It is often used as 'Zeitfenster' (time window) to make this clear.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben nur ein kleines Zeitfenster, um das Projekt erfolgreich abzuschließen.
We have only a small time window to complete the project successfully.
Compare with
Fenster vs Fensterscheibe
windowpane
Fenster refers to the opening together with the complete unit, while Fensterscheibe refers only to the glass fitted into it. If the frame and glass are replaced together, Fenster is the appropriate term. If only the damaged glass is being replaced, Fensterscheibe is more precise.
Fenster
Nach dem Sturm ließ die Familie das Fenster komplett austauschen.
After the storm, the family had the entire window replaced.
Fensterscheibe
Nach dem Sturm ließ die Familie nur die Fensterscheibe austauschen.
After the storm, the family had only the windowpane replaced.
In real life
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