01
der Konsum
consumption
The consumption or use of goods and services by end consumers.
example
Ein bewusster Konsum kann helfen, die Umwelt zu schützen.
Conscious consumption can help protect the environment.
der Konsum
consumption / consumer store
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Der Konsum' (consumption) belongs to a word family. The related verb is 'konsumieren' (to consume), and the person who consumes something is 'der Konsument' or 'die Konsumentin' (the consumer).
EXAMPLE
Viele Menschen versuchen, bewusster zu konsumieren.
Many people are trying to consume more consciously.
Productive compounds
'Konsum' (consumption) is a very productive base word for compound nouns. The first word describes what is being consumed, for example: Alkoholkonsum (alcohol consumption), Drogenkonsum (drug use), Fleischkonsum (meat consumption), Medienkonsum (media consumption).
EXAMPLE
Der hohe Medienkonsum von Kindern ist oft ein Diskussionsthema.
Children's high media consumption is often a topic of discussion.
Context clue
The exact meaning becomes clear from the context. If it is about the economy, shopping, or society, it refers to the consumption of goods. If it is about health, nutrition, or addiction, it refers to the intake of substances.
EXAMPLE
Der private Konsum ist eine wichtige Stütze der Wirtschaft.
Private consumption is an important pillar of the economy.
Typical verbs
In connection with the consumption of goods, 'Konsum' is often used with verbs such as 'einschränken' (to limit), 'reduzieren' (to reduce), 'steigern' (to increase), or 'ankurbeln' (to stimulate/boost).
EXAMPLE
Die Regierung versucht, mit Maßnahmen den Konsum anzukurbeln.
The government is trying to boost consumption with measures.
Cultural context
This meaning is historical and regional. 'Konsum' was the name of a supermarket chain in East Germany. Especially in eastern Germany, older people sometimes still use the term for a supermarket.
EXAMPLE
Oma geht schnell noch in den Konsum, um Milch zu holen.
Grandma is quickly going to the consumer store to get milk.
Compare with
Konsum vs Kauf
purchase
'der Kauf' and 'der Konsum' often belong to the same topic, but they are not the same thing. 'der Kauf' means the moment or process in which you get something in exchange for money. 'der Konsum' means the use or consumption of things, for example goods, services, food, or stimulants. You can buy something and consume it later. There is a risk of confusion because both words appear in texts about the economy or everyday life. Memory tip: 'Kauf' is paying for and acquiring something; 'Konsum' is using or consuming it.
Konsum
Der Konsum von zu viel Zucker kann der Gesundheit schaden.
Consuming too much sugar can harm your health.
Kauf
Meine Freundin hat den Kauf des neuen Fahrrads lange geplant.
My friend planned the purchase of the new bicycle for a long time.
In real life
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