das Muster
pattern
A repeating arrangement of lines, shapes, or colors on a surface, for example on fabric, paper, or tiles.
EXAMPLE
Das Hemd hat ein kariertes Muster.
The shirt has a checked pattern.
das Muster
pattern / sample
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
das Muster
sample
A small specimen or sample of something that shows the quality or nature of the whole.
EXAMPLE
Könnten Sie mir bitte ein Muster des Teppichs schicken?
Could you please send me a sample of the carpet?
das Muster
model
A role model or ideal example of a certain behavior or quality that one can follow.
EXAMPLE
Sein Engagement für die Umwelt ist ein Muster für uns alle.
His commitment to the environment is a model for us all.
das Muster
template / pattern
A template or stencil used to create a shape or design repeatedly.
EXAMPLE
Sie benutzte ein Schnittmuster, um das Kleid zu nähen.
She used a sewing pattern to make the dress.
Usage tips
Context clues
You can easily recognize the meaning of 'Muster' from the context. If it is about clothing or design, it means a repeated form. In a business context, it is a sample. If people are talking about behavior, it is a role model.
EXAMPLE
Das Kleid hat ein schönes Blumenmuster.
The dress has a beautiful floral pattern.
Use as a role model
When 'Muster' describes an ideal example, it is often used in the fixed phrase 'ein Muster an' or 'ein Muster von' followed by a noun in the dative or genitive. This emphasizes an outstanding quality.
EXAMPLE
Dieser Schüler ist ein Muster an Fleiß und Disziplin.
This student is a model of diligence and discipline.
Typical adjectives
When it is about a design, 'Muster' is very often combined with adjectives that describe appearance. Typical examples are 'geblümt' (floral), 'gestreift' (striped), 'gepunktet' (polka-dotted), or 'geometrisch' (geometric).
EXAMPLE
Ich suche einen Vorhang mit einem dezenten, geometrischen Muster.
I'm looking for a curtain with a subtle geometric pattern.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'Probe' (sample), 'Muster' is often used with verbs from the business world. Common combinations are 'ein Muster anfordern' (to request a sample), 'ein Muster schicken' (to send a sample), or 'ein kostenloses Muster erhalten' (to receive a free sample).
EXAMPLE
Viele Firmen schicken auf Anfrage kostenlose Muster ihrer Produkte.
Many companies send free samples of their products upon request.
Compare with
Muster vs Vorbild
role model / model
A Vorbild is usually a specific person whose behavior or achievements one wants to imitate. A Muster can also be an example worth following, but it places more emphasis on ideal behavior or an ideal quality. For an admired person, Vorbild is the more usual choice.
Muster
Der faire Umgang der Trainerin gilt den jungen Spielern als Muster für gutes Verhalten.
The coach's fair treatment of others is regarded by the young players as a model of good behavior.
Vorbild
Die faire Trainerin ist für die jungen Spieler ein Vorbild.
The fair-minded coach is a role model for the young players.
In real life
Loading video examples...