01
der Körperbau
build
The physical stature and constitution of a person or animal; the way the body is built.
example
Trotz seines schmächtigen Körperbaus ist er erstaunlich stark.
Despite his slight build, he is surprisingly strong.
der Körperbau
build
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Compound word
'Körperbau' (build/physique) is made up of 'der Körper' (body) and 'der Bau' (construction/build). So it literally describes how a body is 'built'—its stature, proportions, and constitution.
EXAMPLE
Regelmäßiger Sport kann den Körperbau positiv verändern.
Regular exercise can positively change one's build.
Typical adjectives
This noun is very often combined with adjectives that describe stature. Common combinations are 'ein kräftiger Körperbau' (a strong build), 'ein schlanker Körperbau' (a slim build), 'ein athletischer Körperbau' (an athletic build), or 'ein zierlicher Körperbau' (a delicate/petite build).
EXAMPLE
Er hat einen kräftigen Körperbau und kann schwere Kisten tragen.
He has a strong build and can carry heavy boxes.
Usage context
'Körperbau' (build/physique) is a neutral and factual term. It is used in everyday language, but also in medical, biological, or sports contexts to describe the physical constitution of a person or animal.
EXAMPLE
Bei der ärztlichen Untersuchung wurde auch sein Körperbau beurteilt.
During the medical examination, his build was also assessed.
Compare with
Körperbau vs Bau
construction / building
'der Bau' and 'der Körperbau' can both describe how the body of a person or animal is shaped. 'der Körperbau' is the direct and clear word for this. It fits in everyday language, sports, medicine, or descriptions of people. In this meaning, 'der Bau' is usually used in fixed phrases, for example 'von kräftigem Bau' (of strong build). Learners may confuse the words because both say something about physique. As a practical rule: when you are talking generally about the shape of the body, 'Körperbau' is usually more natural.
Körperbau
Beim Sport achtet der Trainer auch auf den Körperbau der Spieler.
In sports, the coach also pays attention to the players' build.
Bau
Der neue Wachhund ist von kräftigem Bau.
The new guard dog is of strong build.
In real life
Loading video examples...