01
die Kulisse
set
The painted backgrounds and movable parts of the stage design in theater or film.
example
Für das Stück wurde eine beeindruckende Kulisse einer alten Burg aufgebaut.
An impressive set of an old castle was built for the play.
die Kulisse
set / backdrop
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Literal and figurative
'Kulisse' can literally be the stage set in a theater. Figuratively, however, it also describes an impressive setting or background in real life, for example a landscape.
EXAMPLE
Die Kulisse für den zweiten Akt wurde schnell umgebaut.
The set for the second act was quickly rebuilt.
Typical adjectives
In the figurative meaning, 'Kulisse' is often combined with strong adjectives that describe a visual impression. Typical phrases are 'atemberaubende Kulisse' (breathtaking backdrop), 'malerische Kulisse' (picturesque backdrop), or 'beeindruckende Kulisse' (impressive backdrop).
EXAMPLE
Von der Bergspitze hatten wir eine atemberaubende Kulisse.
From the mountaintop, we had a breathtaking backdrop.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'hinter den Kulissen' (behind the scenes) is very common. It means that something happens in secret or without the public's knowledge.
EXAMPLE
Die eigentlichen Entscheidungen werden oft hinter den Kulissen getroffen.
The real decisions are often made behind the scenes.
Compare with
Kulisse vs Rahmen
frame
'der Rahmen' and 'die Kulisse' can both describe the background of a situation. 'Rahmen' more often means the external conditions, the context, or the limits within which something takes place. 'Kulisse' more often means the visible background or surroundings, as in a stage, a film, or a special place. The words are easy to confuse when talking about events or situations. 'Im Rahmen von' means: as part of something or within certain limits. 'Vor der Kulisse von' sounds more like an image, atmosphere, or setting.
Kulisse
Nach dem Gespräch wirkt die alte Werkstatt wie eine passende Kulisse für den Film.
After the conversation, the old workshop seems like a fitting backdrop for the film.
Rahmen
Im Rahmen des Schulfestes verkaufen die Schüler am Montag selbst gebackenen Kuchen.
As part of the school festival, the students are selling homemade cake on Monday.
In real life
Loading video examples...