01
klar
clear
Easy to understand, unambiguous, and without doubt.
example
Seine Anweisungen waren kurz und klar.
His instructions were short and clear.
klar
clear
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Abstract vs. physical
When 'klar' (clear) describes an abstract thing like an idea or a statement, it means 'understandable'. When it describes a physical substance like water or glass, it means 'transparent'.
EXAMPLE
Das war eine klare Anweisung.
That was a clear instruction.
Fixed expression: Alles klar!
The expression 'Alles klar!' is very versatile. It can be used as a question ('Did you understand everything?') or as an answer ('Yes, I understood.' / 'Yes, everything is all right.').
EXAMPLE
Wir treffen uns um 8 Uhr. Alles klar?
We're meeting at 8 o'clock. All clear?
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'understandable', 'klar' (clear) is often used with nouns from the area of communication. Typical phrases are 'klare Worte' (clear words), 'eine klare Antwort' (a clear answer), or 'eine klare Struktur' (a clear structure).
EXAMPLE
Ich erwarte von dir eine klare Antwort: Ja oder Nein?
I expect a clear answer from you: yes or no?
As an answer particle
As a standalone answer, 'Klar!' (Sure!) is a very common, colloquial way of saying 'yes, of course' or 'naturally'. It expresses casual agreement.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du mir kurz helfen? – Klar, kein Problem!
Can you help me for a moment? – Sure, no problem!
Head and thinking
When 'klar' (clear) describes a mental state, it is often used in connection with 'Kopf' (head) or 'Gedanke' (thought). Fixed expressions include 'einen klaren Kopf bewahren' (to keep a clear head) and 'einen klaren Gedanken fassen' (to form a clear thought).
EXAMPLE
Auch in stressigen Situationen versucht er, einen klaren Kopf zu bewahren.
Even in stressful situations, he tries to keep a clear head.
Fixed expression: sich klar sein
The expression 'sich über etwas klar sein' (to be aware of something) is reflexive and uses the dative. The person who is aware is in the dative ('ich bin mir klar'), and the topic follows with 'über' + accusative.
EXAMPLE
Ich bin mir über die Risiken im Klaren.
I am aware of the risks.
Compare with
klar vs natürlich
natural / of course
'natürlich' and 'klar' can both mean 'yes, of course' as an affirmative answer. In this use, they are often very similar. 'klar' usually sounds a bit more casual and conversational, especially as a short answer. 'natürlich' sounds more neutral and also works well when you want to agree politely or clearly. Learners may confuse the words because both express agreement. But 'klar' can also mean 'clear' or 'easy to understand'; then it is not the same as 'natürlich'.
klar
Klar, du kannst mein Fahrrad am Wochenende benutzen.
Sure, you can use my bike this weekend.
natürlich
Natürlich helfe ich dir morgen bei der Vorbereitung.
Of course I'll help you with the preparations tomorrow.
In real life
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