01
ruhend
resting
Being in a state of rest; without movement or activity.
example
Der ruhende Verkehr in den Seitenstraßen blockierte die Einfahrt.
The parked traffic on the side streets blocked the entrance.
ruhend
resting / suspended
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
'Ruhend' (resting/suspended) is the present participle of the verb 'ruhen' (to rest). Like all present participles, it can be used as an adjective before a noun and declined.
EXAMPLE
Ein ruhender Vulkan kann jederzeit wieder aktiv werden.
A dormant volcano can become active again at any time.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'without movement,' 'ruhend' (resting) is often used in fixed combinations, for example 'der ruhende Verkehr' (parked traffic) for parked cars or 'ein ruhender Ball' (a stationary ball) in sports.
EXAMPLE
Der ruhende Ball wartete auf den Anstoß durch den Schiedsrichter.
The stationary ball waited for the referee's kickoff.
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning 'interrupted' from the context. It is almost always used for abstract things such as contracts, proceedings, or memberships, often in formal or legal language.
EXAMPLE
Aufgrund des Umzugs ist seine Mitgliedschaft im Fitnessstudio zurzeit ruhend.
Because of the move, his gym membership is currently suspended.
Fixed expression
When a membership or contract is paused, the fixed expression 'etwas ruhend stellen' (to suspend something) is often used.
EXAMPLE
Sie hat ihren Arbeitsvertrag für die Dauer ihrer Weiterbildung ruhend gestellt.
She suspended her employment contract for the duration of her further training.
Compare with
ruhend vs aktiv
active
'aktiv' and 'ruhend' can be opposites when talking about movement, activity, or an ongoing state. 'aktiv' means that someone is acting or that something is in operation. 'ruhend' means that something is still, paused, or temporarily not active. Learners may confuse the words because 'ruhend' does not always mean permanently off. A 'ruhender Vertrag' (suspended contract) or a 'ruhende Mitgliedschaft' (suspended membership) still exists, but is not currently being used. 'aktiv' fits when something is really running or being used.
ruhend
Während ihres Auslandsjahres lässt sie ihre Mitgliedschaft im Sportverein ruhend.
During her year abroad, she leaves her membership at the sports club suspended.
aktiv
Bei der Arbeit nutzt die Ärztin ein aktives Gerät zur Kontrolle des Herzens.
At work, the doctor uses an active device to monitor the heart.
In real life
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