01
der Mund
mouth
The body opening in the face of humans and animals that is used for breathing, eating, drinking, and making sounds.
example
Der Zahnarzt sagte, ich solle den Mund weit aufmachen.
The dentist said I should open my mouth wide.
der Mund
mouth
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Word in idioms
'Mund' (mouth) is a very productive word in German idioms. When you hear an expression with 'Mund', it often has a figurative, metaphorical meaning.
EXAMPLE
Er ist nicht auf den Mund gefallen und hat immer eine schnelle Antwort parat.
He is quick-witted and always has a quick answer ready.
Register and style
The command 'Halt den Mund!' (Shut up!) is very direct and colloquial. Depending on tone and situation, it can be perceived as rude or even aggressive.
EXAMPLE
Sei still, ich muss mich konzentrieren! Halt doch mal den Mund!
Be quiet, I need to concentrate! Just shut up for a moment!
Typical verbs
The expression 'von Mund zu Mund' (by word of mouth) is often combined with verbs that describe spreading or movement. Typical phrases are 'von Mund zu Mund gehen' (to go by word of mouth) or 'sich von Mund zu Mund verbreiten' (to spread by word of mouth).
EXAMPLE
Das Gerücht über den neuen Chef ging schnell von Mund zu Mund.
The rumor about the new boss quickly spread by word of mouth.
Compare with
Mund vs schweigen
to be silent
'den Mund halten' and 'schweigen' both mean that someone says nothing. 'schweigen' is more neutral and can simply mean that a person stays quiet or deliberately does not speak about something. 'den Mund halten' sounds more direct and often less friendly, especially as a command. It fits better with strong emotions or in very informal situations. If you want to stay polite, 'schweigen' or 'still sein' (to be quiet) is usually better.
Mund
Während der Prüfung müssen alle den Mund halten.
During the exam, everyone has to keep quiet.
schweigen
Sie schwieg lange, weil sie über die Antwort nachdenken musste.
She remained silent for a long time because she had to think about the answer.
In real life
Loading video examples...