kostenlos
free
Without having to pay for it; free of charge.
EXAMPLE
Der Versand ist bei einer Bestellung über 50 Euro kostenlos.
Shipping is free for orders over 50 euros.
kostenlos
free
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of 'Kosten' (costs) and the suffix '-los' (-less). The suffix '-los' means 'without,' so 'kostenlos' literally means 'without costs.'
EXAMPLE
Die Teilnahme am Webinar ist für alle kostenlos.
Participation in the webinar is free for everyone.
Use as an adverb
'Kostenlos' can be used like an adverb to describe a verb. In this case, it is not declined and often appears at the end of the sentence or after the verb.
EXAMPLE
Sie können die App kostenlos im App Store herunterladen.
You can download the app for free from the App Store.
Typical collocations
The word 'kostenlos' (free) is often combined with services or offers. Typical examples are: 'kostenloser Eintritt' (free admission), 'kostenloses WLAN' (free Wi-Fi), or 'eine kostenlose Probe' (a free sample).
EXAMPLE
Viele Cafés bieten ihren Kunden kostenloses WLAN an.
Many cafés offer their customers free Wi-Fi.
Compare with
kostenlos vs frei
free
Frei and kostenlos can both express that you do not have to pay for something. „Frei“ appears especially in set phrases such as „Eintritt frei“, while „kostenlos“ directly and generally describes the absence of a charge. When access is being announced, „frei“ often fits better; for a clear statement about cost, „kostenlos“ is more suitable.
kostenlos
Zum Sommerfest im Stadtpark ist der Eintritt kostenlos.
Admission to the summer festival in the city park is free of charge.
frei
Zum Sommerfest im Stadtpark ist der Eintritt frei.
Admission to the summer festival in the city park is free.
In real life
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