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das Gebot
commandment
A binding rule, command, or regulation, often with a moral or religious background.
example
Das fünfte der Zehn Gebote lautet „Du sollst nicht töten“.
The fifth of the Ten Commandments is 'You shall not kill.'
das Gebot
commandment / bid
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Das Gebot' is closely related to two verbs, which explains its meanings. It comes from 'gebieten' (to command), which leads to 'Gebot' as a rule, and from 'bieten' (to offer/bid), which leads to 'Gebot' as an offer at an auction.
EXAMPLE
Er hat bei der Auktion ein hohes Gebot für das Bild abgegeben.
He placed a high bid for the picture at the auction.
Typical collocations
In the context of an auction or sale, 'Gebot' (bid) is often used with the verbs 'abgeben' (to place/submit), 'machen' (to make), or 'erhöhen' (to raise). A typical combination is also 'das höchste Gebot' (the highest bid).
EXAMPLE
Ich möchte mein Gebot um 100 Euro erhöhen.
I would like to raise my bid by 100 euros.
Context: morality and religion
In the meaning 'Regel' (rule) or 'Vorschrift' (regulation), 'Gebot' (commandment) almost always has a moral or religious context. The best-known combination is 'die Zehn Gebote' (the Ten Commandments).
EXAMPLE
Gastfreundschaft ist in vielen Kulturen ein wichtiges Gebot.
Hospitality is an important commandment in many cultures.
Fixed expression
The expression 'das Gebot der Stunde' (the need of the hour) is a fixed phrase. It is used as a complete block to express what is most important right now.
EXAMPLE
In dieser Krise ist Solidarität das Gebot der Stunde.
In this crisis, solidarity is the need of the hour.
Compare with
Gebot vs Regel
rule / period
'die Regel' and 'das Gebot' can both say what you should or must do. 'Regel' is the normal, general word for rules in everyday life, school, work, or games. 'Gebot' sounds stronger and more serious. It fits especially when talking about morality, religion, or a very binding obligation. Learners can confuse the words because both guide behavior. In everyday language, however, people usually say 'Regel'; 'Gebot' is used more when something is considered especially important or obligatory.
Gebot
Ehrlichkeit ist für sie ein wichtiges Gebot im Umgang mit anderen Menschen.
For her, honesty is an important commandment in dealing with other people.
Regel
Vor der Reise erklärt Ali seinem Bruder die wichtigste Regel im Hotel.
Before the trip, Ali explains the most important rule at the hotel to his brother.
In real life
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