01
der Modus
mode
A specific operating mode, state, or way in which a device, program, or system functions.
example
Bitte schalten Sie Ihr Handy in den Flugmodus.
Please switch your phone to airplane mode.
der Modus
mode
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Meanings
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Usage tips
False friend (fashion)
Although it sounds similar, 'der Modus' (mode) does not mean 'Mode' (fashion). The English word 'mode' can mean both, but 'der Modus' in German refers to a way of functioning or a state, not to clothing.
EXAMPLE
Schalte dein Handy bitte in den Lautlos-Modus.
Please switch your phone to silent mode.
One word, many fields
'Modus' (mode) is a technical term in many fields. The context makes the meaning clear: in technology it is about devices, in grammar about verbs, in statistics about numbers, and in music about scales.
EXAMPLE
Je nach Fachgebiet hat der Begriff „Modus“ eine andere, sehr spezifische Bedeutung.
Depending on the field, the term 'Modus' has a different, very specific meaning.
In a technical context
'Modus' (mode) is most commonly used for technical devices and software. It often forms compound words such as 'Flugmodus' (airplane mode), 'Energiesparmodus' (power-saving mode), or 'Nachtmodus' (night mode).
EXAMPLE
Der Energiesparmodus verlängert die Akkulaufzeit des Laptops.
Power-saving mode extends the laptop's battery life.
Context: grammar
When you hear 'Modus' (mood) in grammar class, it refers to the three ways a verb can express a statement: indicative (reality), subjunctive (possibility), and imperative (command).
EXAMPLE
Der Konjunktiv ist ein Modus, der oft für indirekte Rede verwendet wird.
The subjunctive is a mood that is often used for indirect speech.
Latin expressions
In elevated language, 'Modus' (method/manner) appears in fixed Latin expressions. 'Modus Vivendi' describes a way of living together despite conflicts, and 'Modus Operandi' the typical method of operation of a person.
EXAMPLE
Die Ermittler erkannten schnell den Modus Operandi des Täters.
The investigators quickly recognized the perpetrator's modus operandi.
Compare with
Modus vs Programm
program
'das Programm' and 'der Modus' can both describe a selectable way in which a device or system works. With household appliances, 'Programm' often means a fixed sequence that is carried out automatically, for example on a washing machine. 'Modus' more often means an operating mode or state, for example 'Energiesparmodus' (energy-saving mode) or 'Nachtmodus' (night mode). They are easy to confuse because you can select both on devices. As a guide: a Programm often runs from beginning to end; a Modus describes the way something is currently operating.
Modus
Max hat nach dem Essen den Nachtmodus am Handy eingeschaltet.
After dinner, Max turned on night mode on his phone.
Programm
Ich nehme für die empfindlichen Hemden ein besonders schonendes Programm.
I use a particularly gentle program for the delicate shirts.
In real life
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