01
klettern
to climb
To move upward on something or over something with the help of hands and feet.
example
Die Kinder lieben es, auf den großen Felsen im Park zu klettern.
The children love climbing on the big rocks in the park.
klettern
to climb
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Perfect tense with 'sein'
Since 'klettern' (to climb) describes movement from one place to another, the perfect tense is always formed with the auxiliary verb 'sein' (to be). A common mistake is using 'haben' (to have).
EXAMPLE
Wir sind am Wochenende in den Alpen geklettert.
We went climbing in the Alps at the weekend.
Correct preposition
When climbing, prepositions that indicate direction are important. You climb 'auf' (onto/up) a mountain, 'über' (over) a wall, or 'durch' (through) a window.
EXAMPLE
Die Katze ist auf das Dach geklettert.
The cat climbed onto the roof.
Figurative meaning
In a figurative sense, 'klettern' (to climb) is used for numbers, prices, or temperatures that are rising. It describes a continuous increase, often with the preposition 'auf' (to) for the value reached.
EXAMPLE
Die Benzinpreise sind auf ein neues Rekordhoch geklettert.
Gasoline prices have climbed to a new record high.
Fixed expression
In a professional context, the fixed expression 'die Karriereleiter hochklettern' (to climb the career ladder) is often used. It means to advance professionally and reach a higher position.
EXAMPLE
Er hat hart gearbeitet, um die Karriereleiter so schnell hochzuklettern.
He worked hard to climb the career ladder so quickly.
Compare with
klettern vs fallen
to fall
'fallen' and 'klettern' can form a contrast. With movement, it is about direction: someone who falls moves downward, often uncontrollably. Someone who climbs moves upward or over something using their hands and feet. This contrast also exists with numbers and values: prices or temperatures can fall when they become lower, and climb when they rise. 'klettern' sounds somewhat figurative with values, but it is easy to understand in the news and in everyday language.
klettern
Vor den Ferien klettern die Preise für Zugtickets oft stark.
Before the holidays, prices for train tickets often climb sharply.
fallen
Beim Spielen fällt das Kind vom Stuhl.
While playing, the child falls off the chair.
In real life
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