01
die Packung
package
Packaging, usually made of cardboard, paper, or plastic, in which goods are sold.
example
Im Supermarkt kaufte sie eine Packung Nudeln.
At the supermarket, she bought a package of pasta.
die Packung
package / pack
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'Packung' (package) is derived from the verb 'packen' (to pack). The ending '-ung' forms a feminine noun that describes the process or result of an action.
EXAMPLE
Hilfst du mir, die Koffer für den Urlaub zu packen?
Will you help me pack the suitcases for the vacation?
Context clue
Whether the packaging (meaning 1) or the contents (meaning 2) is meant is often shown by the verb. Verbs like 'kaufen' (to buy) or 'öffnen' (to open) usually refer to the packaging, while verbs like 'essen' (to eat) or 'benutzen' (to use) mean the contents.
EXAMPLE
Kannst du bitte die Packung Milch öffnen?
Can you please open the carton of milk?
Colloquial use
In the colloquial meaning of a defeat, 'Packung' (thrashing) is often used with the verbs 'bekommen' (to get) or 'kriegen' (to get). This expression is typical in a sports context.
EXAMPLE
Die Gastmannschaft hat eine ordentliche Packung gekriegt.
The visiting team got a proper thrashing.
Typical collocations
The word 'Packung' (package) is often combined with the product it contains. For example, you say 'eine Packung Kaffee' (a package of coffee), 'eine Packung Taschentücher' (a pack of tissues), or 'eine Packung Zigaretten' (a pack of cigarettes).
EXAMPLE
Ich brauche noch eine Packung Mehl zum Backen.
I still need a package of flour for baking.
Compare with
Packung vs Inhalt
content
'der Inhalt' and 'die Packung' are often connected when shopping. 'Inhalt' means exactly what is inside packaging. 'Packung' usually means the packaging itself, such as the carton, bag, or box. Sometimes 'Packung' also means the amount sold in such packaging, for example 'eine Packung Reis' (a package of rice). That is why learners may confuse the words. If you are talking about the material or thing inside, 'Inhalt' is more precise. If you are talking about the sales unit or the packaging, 'Packung' is more natural.
Packung
Im Supermarkt kaufen wir eine Packung Nudeln für das Abendessen.
At the supermarket, we buy a package of pasta for dinner.
Inhalt
Der Inhalt der Dose riecht frisch und sieht gut aus.
The contents of the can smell fresh and look good.
In real life
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