01
das Futter
feed
Food intended for animals.
example
Vergiss nicht, dem Hund sein Futter zu geben.
Don't forget to give the dog its feed.
das Futter
feed / lining
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Context clue
The meanings of 'Futter' are very different. But the context always makes clear what is meant: are you talking about animals (animal feed), clothing (inner fabric), food (colloquial), or tools (technical)?
EXAMPLE
Der Bauer bringt das Futter für die Kühe.
The farmer brings the feed for the cows.
Compound formation
In the meaning of 'Tiernahrung' (animal food/feed), 'Futter' is a very productive base word. It is often combined with a type of animal to specify the kind of food, e.g. 'Hundefutter' (dog food), 'Katzenfutter' (cat food), or 'Vogelfutter' (bird food).
EXAMPLE
Im Supermarkt gibt es eine ganze Abteilung nur für Hundefutter.
At the supermarket there is a whole section just for dog food.
Colloquial language
When 'Futter' is used for food for people, it is always colloquial and often meant humorously. You should avoid this expression in formal situations.
EXAMPLE
Kommt schnell, das Futter wird kalt!
Come quickly, the grub is getting cold!
Technical language
The meaning of 'Futter' as a holding device for tools is a technical term. You will mainly encounter it in workshops or in instructions for machines such as drills.
EXAMPLE
Bitte zieh das Futter der Drehbank fest an, bevor du die Maschine startest.
Please tighten the chuck of the lathe firmly before you start the machine.
Compare with
Futter vs Essen
food / meal / eating
'das Essen' and 'das Futter' can both mean food, but they are normally used for different recipients. 'Essen' is the normal word for people. 'Futter' is mainly food for animals. You can also use 'Futter' jokingly or very colloquially for food for people, but that does not fit every situation. Learners may confuse the words because both mean something edible. The safe rule is: for people, almost always say 'Essen'; for animals, usually say 'Futter'.
Futter
Zu Hause gibt er dem Hund frisches Futter.
At home, he gives the dog fresh food.
Essen
Lea stellt das Essen für die Familie auf den Tisch.
Lea puts the food for the family on the table.
In real life
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