modern
In keeping with the present day; new and up to date in terms of technology, taste, or development.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben eine sehr moderne Küche mit den neuesten Geräten.
We have a very modern kitchen with the latest appliances.
modern
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
modern
Related to the art-historical and cultural era of modernism, around the early 20th century, characterized by new, experimental forms.
EXAMPLE
Im Museum gibt es eine große Abteilung für moderne Kunst.
The museum has a large section for modern art.
modern
Having a progressive, open-minded, or unconventional attitude or way of life.
EXAMPLE
Sie hat sehr moderne Ansichten über die Arbeitswelt.
She has very modern views about the world of work.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'modern' is the basis for other words such as the verb 'modernisieren' (to modernize something) and the noun 'die Modernisierung' (modernization). The name of the art and cultural era 'die Moderne' (modernism/the modern era) is also derived from it.
EXAMPLE
Wir wollen unsere alte Wohnung komplett modernisieren.
We want to completely modernize our old apartment.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'zeitgemäß' (contemporary/up to date), 'modern' is often used to describe technology, design, or architecture. Typical combinations are 'moderne Technik' (modern technology), 'moderne Möbel' (modern furniture), or 'ein modernes Gebäude' (a modern building).
EXAMPLE
Das neue Bürogebäude hat eine sehr moderne Fassade aus Glas und Stahl.
The new office building has a very modern facade made of glass and steel.
Context clue: era
When 'modern' is used in connection with art, literature, or music, it often refers to the art-historical era of 'die Moderne' (modernism). Watch for nouns like 'Kunst' (art), 'Malerei' (painting), or 'Architektur' (architecture).
EXAMPLE
Das Museum stellt viele Werke der klassischen Moderne aus.
The museum exhibits many works of classical modernism.
Modern attitude
When it is about ways of thinking, 'modern' describes a progressive or open-minded attitude. Common combinations are 'moderne Ansichten haben' (to have modern views), 'modern denken' (to think in a modern way), or 'eine moderne Familie sein' (to be a modern family).
EXAMPLE
Er hat für sein Alter sehr moderne Ansichten zur Gleichberechtigung.
For his age, he has very modern views on equality.
Compare with
modern vs aktuell
current
For things related to the present, aktuell and modern can both work, but they emphasize different aspects. Aktuell mainly describes the current or valid status, while modern highlights contemporary design or technological development. Aktuell is usually suitable for information, while modern is more suitable for up-to-date devices or forms.
modern
Das neue Telefon hat ein modernes Design und einen großen Bildschirm.
The new phone has a modern design and a large screen.
aktuell
Auf der Website stehen die aktuell gültigen Öffnungszeiten.
The website lists the currently valid opening hours.
In real life
Loading video examples...