01
gratis
free
Without having to pay for it; free of charge.
example
Zu jeder Bestellung über 50 Euro erhalten Sie den Versand gratis.
With every order over 50 euros, you receive shipping for free.
gratis
free
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Meanings
Usage tips
Invariable form
The word 'gratis' (free) is a special adjective that does not change its form. It is not declined and does not take endings, even when it comes directly before a noun.
EXAMPLE
Im Museum gibt es heute gratis Eintritt für alle.
At the museum today, there is free admission for everyone.
Special sentence position
Unlike most adjectives, 'gratis' (free) can also stand directly after the noun it refers to. It also often appears at the end of a sentence.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben zwei Kinokarten gratis bekommen.
We got two movie tickets for free.
Everyday use
The word 'gratis' (free) is used very frequently in advertising and special offers. It always signals that something costs nothing and is meant to attract customers.
EXAMPLE
Kaufen Sie zwei, erhalten Sie das dritte Produkt gratis.
Buy two and get the third product free.
Compare with
gratis vs frei
free
'frei' and 'gratis' can both mean that you do not have to pay anything. In this meaning, they are synonyms. 'gratis' is very clear and is often used in advertising, offers, or everyday language. 'frei' has many other meanings, for example available or unrestricted. That is why confusion can occur without clear context. If the topic is only the price, 'gratis' is especially clear; however, 'Eintritt frei' (free admission) is a fixed and natural expression.
gratis
Beim Termin haben die Eltern ein Heft gratis bekommen.
At the appointment, the parents received a booklet for free.
frei
Heute ist der Eintritt ins Schwimmbad für Kinder frei.
Today admission to the swimming pool is free for children.
In real life
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