die Mikrobe
microbe
A very small organism, usually visible only under a microscope, especially a bacterium or another pathogen.
EXAMPLE
Unter dem Mikroskop war die Mikrobe deutlich zu erkennen.
The microbe was clearly visible under the microscope.
die Mikrobe
microbe
die Mikrobe, die Mikroben
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Meanings
Forms
Forms adapted from the German Wiktionary entry Mikrobe, by Wiktionary contributors, licence CC BY-SA 4.0.
At a glance
| gender | feminine die |
|---|---|
| plural | die Mikroben |
| genitive | der Mikrobe |
The four cases
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | die Mikrobe | die Mikroben |
| accusative | die Mikrobe | die Mikroben |
| dative | der Mikrobe | den Mikroben |
| genitive | der Mikrobe | der Mikroben |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
Usage tips
General term
'Mikrobe' (microbe) is a general term for very small organisms and does not specify a particular type. The expression is therefore often used when the exact biological classification is unimportant or not yet known.
EXAMPLE
Die Untersuchung soll zeigen, welche Mikrobe die Entzündung verursacht hat.
The examination is intended to show which microbe caused the inflammation.
Typical collocations
Common collocations include 'Mikroben bekämpfen' (to combat microbes), 'Mikroben abtöten' (to kill microbes), and 'Mikroben übertragen' (to transmit microbes). The word is often used in connection with hygiene, medicine, or infections.
EXAMPLE
Regelmäßiges Händewaschen kann viele Mikroben entfernen.
Regular handwashing can remove many microbes.
Technical context
'Mikrobe' (microbe) is especially common in medical, biological, and hygiene-related contexts. In texts intended for a general audience, the word often refers to organisms that can cause or transmit diseases.
EXAMPLE
Die Ärztin erklärte, wie sich die Mikrobe in geschlossenen Räumen verbreiten kann.
The doctor explained how the microbe can spread in enclosed spaces.
In real life
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