indisch
Indian
Relating to the country of India, its people, language, or culture.
EXAMPLE
Wir gehen heute Abend in ein indisches Restaurant.
We're going to an Indian restaurant this evening.
indisch
Indian
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Meanings
indisch
Indian
In historical and geographical terms that refer to the East Indies (South and Southeast Asia) or the West Indies (the Caribbean).
EXAMPLE
Der Indische Ozean ist der drittgrößte Ozean der Welt.
The Indian Ocean is the third-largest ocean in the world.
Usage tips
Adjective formation
The adjective 'indisch' (Indian) is derived from the country name 'Indien' (India) with the suffix '-isch'. This pattern is very common for forming adjectives referring to nationalities or regions.
EXAMPLE
Die spanische Kultur ist sehr vielfältig.
Spanish culture is very diverse.
False friend
Careful: 'indisch' (Indian) refers exclusively to things or people from the country of India. Unlike the English word 'Indian', it is never used in German for the Indigenous peoples of the Americas.
EXAMPLE
Er kocht gerne scharfe indische Gerichte.
He likes cooking spicy Indian dishes.
Typical collocations
The adjective is very often used in connection with culture and cuisine. Typical combinations are 'indisches Essen' (Indian food), 'indische Gewürze' (Indian spices), 'indische Musik' (Indian music), or 'indische Kleidung' (Indian clothing).
EXAMPLE
Ich liebe den Geruch von indischen Gewürzen.
I love the smell of Indian spices.
Geographical names
The historical meaning of 'indisch' (Indian) is now almost only present in fixed geographical names. The best-known example is 'der Indische Ozean' (the Indian Ocean).
EXAMPLE
Die Insel Mauritius liegt im Indischen Ozean.
The island of Mauritius is located in the Indian Ocean.
In real life
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