das Geschoss
floor
A floor or story in a building.
EXAMPLE
Wir wohnen im dritten Geschoss des neuen Wohnblocks.
We live on the third floor of the new apartment block.
das Geschoss
floor / projectile
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Meanings
das Geschoss
projectile
An object that is fired from a firearm or a similar device.
EXAMPLE
Das Geschoss traf die Zielscheibe genau in der Mitte.
The projectile hit the target right in the middle.
Usage tips
Word family
The word 'Geschoss' (projectile / floor) is derived from the verb 'schießen' (to shoot). A 'Geschoss' is therefore literally something that is 'geschossen' (shot). This origin directly explains the meaning as a projectile and historically also the meaning as a floor or story (the height that people used to be able to build or, figuratively, 'shoot upward').
EXAMPLE
Der Jäger lud ein neues Geschoss in sein Gewehr.
The hunter loaded a new projectile into his rifle.
Context clue
The two meanings can be easily distinguished by context. If people are talking about buildings, apartments, or addresses, a floor is meant. If it is about weapons, the military, or crime, a projectile is meant.
EXAMPLE
Das Büro befindet sich im obersten Geschoss.
The office is located on the top floor.
Typical collocations
In connection with floors, there are fixed terms: the lowest floor is the 'Erdgeschoss' (ground floor), the floors above it are 'Obergeschosse' (upper floors), and the floor directly under the roof is the 'Dachgeschoss' (attic floor / top floor).
EXAMPLE
Die Wohnung im Erdgeschoss hat einen eigenen Garten.
The apartment on the ground floor has its own garden.
Correct preposition
To indicate a location, you use 'im Geschoss' (on/in the floor; dative). To express movement to that place, you use 'ins Geschoss' (to/into the floor; accusative).
EXAMPLE
Der Aufzug fährt bis ins zehnte Geschoss.
The elevator goes up to the tenth floor.
Compare with
Geschoss vs Ebene
plain / level
Both words can refer to a level in a building or structure. Ebene is more general and also suits open or differently organized areas, while Geschoss specifically refers to the structural unit between ceilings. Use “Geschoss” for a clearly defined floor and “Ebene” for a broader division.
Geschoss
Das dritte Geschoss des Gebäudes wird gerade renoviert.
The building's third floor is currently being renovated.
Ebene
Die offene Galerie liegt auf der oberen Ebene des Gebäudes.
The open gallery is on the upper level of the building.
In real life
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