01
der Freitag
Friday
The fifth day of the week in the usual counting, between Thursday and Saturday.
example
Nächsten Freitag treffen wir uns zum Abendessen.
Next Friday we're meeting for dinner.
der Freitag
Friday
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Meanings
Usage tips
Time expressions without an article
For repeated actions on this weekday, you add an '-s': 'freitags' (on Fridays). For a future or past Friday, you use 'nächsten' (next) or 'letzten' (last) without a preposition.
EXAMPLE
Freitags essen wir immer Pizza.
On Fridays we always eat pizza.
Time expression with 'am'
When you are talking about a specific, one-time Friday, you use the preposition 'am' (on).
EXAMPLE
Am Freitag habe ich einen wichtigen Termin beim Arzt.
On Friday I have an important doctor's appointment.
Origin of the word
The name 'Freitag' (Friday) does not derive from the word 'frei' (free), but from Frija, the Germanic goddess of love and marriage. Knowing the origin can help with learning.
EXAMPLE
In vielen Kulturen sind die Wochentage nach Göttern benannt.
In many cultures, the days of the week are named after gods.
Cultural context
The expression 'Freitag der Dreizehnte' (Friday the thirteenth) is very well known in German-speaking countries and refers to an unlucky day. It is often used in connection with bad luck or superstition.
EXAMPLE
Manche Leute bleiben an einem Freitag dem Dreizehnten lieber zu Hause.
Some people prefer to stay home on a Friday the thirteenth.
Compare with
Freitag vs Samstag
Saturday
'der Freitag' and 'der Samstag' are two days of the week that come directly after one another. 'der Freitag' comes after Thursday and is often the last workday of the week. 'der Samstag' comes after that and falls between Friday and Sunday. It is easy to confuse the words because both are close to the weekend. A practical tip: first comes Friday, then Saturday.
Freitag
Vor der Reise treffen wir uns am Freitag noch kurz im Büro.
Before the trip, we'll meet briefly at the office on Friday.
Samstag
Am Samstag schlafen wir länger und frühstücken zu Hause.
On Saturday, we sleep in and have breakfast at home.
In real life
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