der Gebrauch
use
The act of using or applying something; the use or utilization of something.
EXAMPLE
Der Gebrauch von Mobiltelefonen ist während der Prüfung verboten.
The use of mobile phones is prohibited during the exam.
der Gebrauch
use / custom
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Meanings
Gebrauch machen von
to make use of
A fixed expression that means to use something or take advantage of an opportunity.
EXAMPLE
Sie sollten von Ihrem Recht Gebrauch machen, einen Anwalt zu konsultieren.
You should make use of your right to consult a lawyer.
der Gebrauch
custom
A traditional custom or practice that is usual in a community or culture.
EXAMPLE
Es ist ein alter Gebrauch, zu Ostern Eier zu färben.
It is an old custom to dye eggs at Easter.
Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'der Gebrauch' (use) belongs to the word family of the verb 'gebrauchen' (to use). Both words have the root 'brauchen' (to need), which shows the close connection to the idea of use and necessity.
EXAMPLE
Der richtige Gebrauch dieses Werkzeugs erfordert etwas Übung.
The correct use of this tool requires some practice.
Formal style
The word 'Gebrauch' (use) is often used in formal, written, or technical contexts, for example in instructions, contracts, or official notices.
EXAMPLE
Der Gebrauch von Hilfsmitteln ist in der Prüfung nicht gestattet.
The use of aids is not permitted in the exam.
Typical collocations
A very common phrase is the instruction 'vor Gebrauch schütteln' (shake before use), which appears on many liquid products. 'Für den täglichen Gebrauch' (for daily use) is also a common expression.
EXAMPLE
Diese Salbe ist nur für den äußerlichen Gebrauch bestimmt.
This ointment is intended for external use only.
Fixed expression
The phrase 'von etwas Gebrauch machen' (to make use of something) is a formal way to say that you are using an opportunity. It is always formed with the preposition 'von' (of/from) and the dative.
EXAMPLE
Bitte machen Sie von der Möglichkeit Gebrauch, Fragen zu stellen.
Please make use of the opportunity to ask questions.
Context clue
When 'Gebrauch' (custom) means a custom or tradition, it often appears with adjectives like 'alt' (old), 'lokal' (local), or 'traditionell' (traditional). Without such clues, the meaning is usually 'Verwendung' (use).
EXAMPLE
Das Schenken von Brot und Salz beim Einzug ist ein schöner alter Gebrauch.
Giving bread and salt when someone moves in is a lovely old custom.
Compare with
Gebrauch vs Verwendung
use
Verwendung and Gebrauch can both refer to using an object. Verwendung focuses more on the purpose or manner in which it is used. Gebrauch focuses more strongly on the act of using it itself.
Gebrauch
Beim Gebrauch dieses Messers sollte man vorsichtig sein.
You should be careful when using this knife.
Verwendung
Die Verwendung dieses Messers zum Brotschneiden ist vorgesehen.
This knife is intended for cutting bread.
In real life
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