01
horizontal
Horizontal; running parallel to the horizon or a flat surface. The opposite of vertical.
example
Bitte ziehen Sie eine horizontale Linie von links nach rechts.
Please draw a horizontal line from left to right.
horizontal
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Use as an adverb
'Horizontal' (horizontal) can also be used as an adverb without changing form. It then describes how an action is carried out: in a horizontal direction.
EXAMPLE
Der Balken muss horizontal ausgerichtet werden.
The beam must be aligned horizontally.
Context clue
The literal meaning can be recognized from words in the fields of geometry, technology, or description. Typical nouns are 'Linie' (line), 'Ebene' (plane), 'Achse' (axis), or 'Position' (position).
EXAMPLE
Der Patient lag in horizontaler Position auf dem Bett.
The patient lay in a horizontal position on the bed.
Context clue
The figurative meaning is found in the context of organizations and companies. It is often combined with words such as 'Struktur' (structure), 'Kommunikation' (communication), 'Hierarchie' (hierarchy), or 'Zusammenarbeit' (collaboration).
EXAMPLE
Das Unternehmen fördert die horizontale Zusammenarbeit zwischen den Abteilungen.
The company promotes horizontal collaboration between the departments.
Compare with
horizontal vs eben
just / exactly
'eben' and 'horizontal' can both have to do with a straight, flat position. 'eben' mainly describes a surface without unevenness, for example a floor or a table. 'horizontal' describes the direction more precisely: something runs level, that is, not upward or downward. The words can be confused because a horizontal line often lies on a flat surface. But 'eben' is more about the question: Is the surface smooth and flat? 'horizontal' is more about the question: In what direction does something run?
horizontal
Zieh bitte eine horizontale Linie unter die Überschrift.
Please draw a horizontal line under the heading.
eben
Der Tisch muss eben stehen, sonst wackelt das Glas.
The table has to stand level, otherwise the glass will wobble.
In real life
Loading video examples...