01
das Modell
model
A particular version, design, or type of a product, especially vehicles or technical devices.
example
Dieses Automodell ist besonders sparsam im Verbrauch.
This car model is especially fuel-efficient.
das Modell
model
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 06
Usage tips
Context clue
Pay attention to the context to understand the meaning. Is it about a product (car, phone), a person (fashion), a small reproduction (architecture), or an abstract idea (science)?
EXAMPLE
Das wissenschaftliche Modell konnte die Realität nicht exakt abbilden.
The scientific model could not represent reality exactly.
Typical collocations
When it is about a product version, you often hear combinations like 'das neueste Modell' (the latest model), 'ein sportliches Modell' (a sporty model), or 'ein Sondermodell' (a special edition model).
EXAMPLE
Der Autohersteller hat ein neues Modell mit Elektromotor vorgestellt.
The car manufacturer introduced a new model with an electric motor.
Use with 'von'
When 'Modell' (model) means a scaled-down reproduction, German often uses 'von' + dative to indicate what is being reproduced. Typical verbs are 'bauen' (to build) or 'basteln' (to craft/make).
EXAMPLE
Mein Sohn hat ein Modell von einem Piratenschiff gebaut.
My son built a model of a pirate ship.
Job title
As a job title, 'das Modell' (the model) is neuter, even when it refers to a woman or a man. Typical verbs are 'als Modell arbeiten' (to work as a model) or 'ein Modell sein' (to be a model).
EXAMPLE
Er arbeitet seit fünf Jahren als gefragtes Modell für eine große Agentur.
He has been working as an in-demand model for a large agency for five years.
Scientific context
In science or economics, 'Modell' (model) stands for a simplified, abstract representation. For example, people speak of a 'Wettermodell' (weather model), 'Konjunkturmodell' (economic model), or 'Atommodell' (atomic model).
EXAMPLE
Das Konjunkturmodell der Regierung prognostiziert ein leichtes Wachstum.
The government's economic model predicts slight growth.
As a role model
In a figurative meaning, 'Modell' (model) can be a concept or system that serves as an example. Common compounds are 'Erfolgsmodell' (successful model) or 'Geschäftsmodell' (business model).
EXAMPLE
Das skandinavische Sozialsystem wird oft als Modell diskutiert.
The Scandinavian social system is often discussed as a model.
Fixed expression
The fixed expression 'Modell stehen' means to pose for an artist. The person one poses for is in the dative.
EXAMPLE
Die junge Frau hat dem berühmten Maler für sein Gemälde Modell gestanden.
The young woman modeled for the famous painter for his painting.
Compare with
Modell vs Typ
guy / type
'der Typ' and 'das Modell' can both mean a particular version of something, especially with products or technical devices. 'der Typ' tends to describe the kind or sort with certain features. 'das Modell' usually means a specific version of a product, for example with a car, phone, or device. Learners may confuse the words because in technology you sometimes hear both. As a guide: 'Typ' is more about the kind, while 'Modell' is more about the exact product version.
Modell
Dieses Modell hat eine bessere Kamera als das ältere Handy.
This model has a better camera than the older phone.
Typ
Für diese Küche brauchen wir einen Kühlschrank von einem schmalen Typ.
For this kitchen, we need a refrigerator of a narrow type.
In real life
Loading video examples...