01
ruhen
to rest
To rest, not be active, in order to recover.
example
Nach der langen Wanderung müssen wir erst einmal ruhen.
After the long hike, we first need to rest.
ruhen
to rest
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Ruhen' is the verb corresponding to the noun 'die Ruhe' (rest/quiet). When something 'ruht' (rests), it is in a state of rest. This connection helps you understand the different meanings of the verb.
EXAMPLE
Am Sonntag möchte ich nur meine Ruhe haben und auf dem Sofa ruhen.
On Sunday I just want to have my peace and rest on the sofa.
Auxiliary verb in the perfect tense
Although 'ruhen' describes a state, it forms the perfect tense with the auxiliary verb 'haben' (to have), not with 'sein' (to be). So the correct form is 'hat geruht' (has rested).
EXAMPLE
Der Patient hat nach der Operation lange geruht.
The patient rested for a long time after the operation.
Typical collocations
When an activity is temporarily suspended, 'ruhen' is often combined with abstract nouns such as 'die Arbeit' (the work), 'der Verkehr' (traffic), or 'die Bauarbeiten' (construction work).
EXAMPLE
Wegen des Streiks ruht der gesamte Bahnverkehr.
Because of the strike, all rail traffic is at a standstill.
Preposition 'auf'
When something lies on a surface or is supported by something, you use 'ruhen auf' (to rest on) with the dative. This applies both literally and figuratively to responsibility or expectations.
EXAMPLE
Sein Blick ruhte nachdenklich auf dem alten Foto.
His gaze rested thoughtfully on the old photo.
Fixed expression
The fixed expression 'etwas ruhen lassen' (to let something rest) means to deliberately not pursue a matter or dispute further. The topic that you are dropping is in the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Wir kommen hier nicht weiter. Lassen wir das Thema für heute ruhen.
We're not getting anywhere here. Let's let the topic rest for today.
Elevated style
In connection with death, 'ruhen' (to rest) is a very formal and respectful expression for 'begraben sein' (to be buried). You often find it on gravestones, e.g. in the form 'Hier ruht ...' (Here rests ...).
EXAMPLE
Auf diesem Friedhof ruht ein berühmter Dichter.
A famous poet rests in this cemetery.
Compare with
ruhen vs liegen
to lie / be located
'liegen' and 'ruhen' can both describe a calm, often horizontal position. 'liegen' is the normal everyday word for a body position or the location of an object. 'ruhen' puts more emphasis on rest, recovery, or stillness and often sounds a little more elevated. In 'auf etwas ruhen' (to rest on something), it can also mean that something lies on a surface or is supported by it. If you simply want to say where someone or something is, 'liegen' usually fits. If the rest or stillness is important, 'ruhen' fits better.
ruhen
Nach der langen Wanderung ruht Paul eine Stunde auf dem Sofa.
After the long hike, Paul rests on the sofa for an hour.
liegen
Die Katze liegt in der Sonne auf dem Teppich.
The cat is lying in the sun on the carpet.
In real life
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