In monotheistic religions (such as Christianity, Judaism, Islam), the supreme supernatural being worshipped as the creator and ruler of the universe.
example
Viele Menschen beten zu Gott, wenn sie Hilfe brauchen.
Many people pray to God when they need help.
Usage tips
Context clue
In a monotheistic context, 'Gott' (God) is often used like a proper name without an article. When speaking about one of many gods (polytheism), the article 'der Gott' (the god) or 'ein Gott' (a god) is usually used.
EXAMPLE
Sie glaubt an Gott.
She believes in God.
Fixed expression
The expression 'Gott sei Dank' (thank God) is a very common idiom used to express relief. It is also used by non-religious people in everyday life.
EXAMPLE
Gott sei Dank, du bist wieder da! Ich habe mir Sorgen gemacht.
Thank God, you're back! I was worried.
Typical collocations
In a religious context, 'Gott' (God) is often combined with the verbs 'an Gott glauben' (to believe in God) and 'zu Gott beten' (to pray to God).
EXAMPLE
Er betet jeden Abend zu Gott.
He prays to God every evening.
Figurative meaning
When a person is referred to as 'Gott' (god), it is a strong metaphor for extreme admiration. This is often found in the context of music, art, or sports.
EXAMPLE
Für die Fans ist dieser Fußballer ein Fußballgott.
For the fans, this footballer is a football god.
Fixed exclamation
'Mein Gott!' (My God!) is a common exclamation used to express strong amazement, fright, or annoyance. It is a fixed expression.
EXAMPLE
Mein Gott, was ist denn hier passiert?
My God, what happened here?
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Gott vs Herr
gentleman / Mr.
'Gott' and 'der Herr' can both refer to the same supreme being in a religious context, especially in Christianity. 'Gott' is the direct and general term. 'der Herr' is a religious form of address or term and sounds more solemn or biblical. Learners may confuse the words because 'Herr' can also simply mean a man or a formal form of address. Outside religious language, 'der Herr' is therefore usually not the same as 'Gott'.
Gott
Viele Menschen beten zu Gott, wenn sie Angst haben oder Hilfe suchen.
Many people pray to God when they are afraid or looking for help.
Herr
Im Gottesdienst dankt die Gemeinde dem Herrn für seine Hilfe.
During the church service, the congregation thanks the Lord for his help.