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die Sauberkeit
cleanliness
The state of being free from dirt, dust, stains, or mess.
example
In diesem Hotel wird großer Wert auf Sauberkeit gelegt.
In this hotel, great importance is placed on cleanliness.
die Sauberkeit
cleanliness / integrity
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word formation
'Sauberkeit' (cleanliness) is derived from the adjective 'sauber' (clean). The ending '-keit' is a typical German ending used to form abstract nouns from adjectives that describe a state or quality.
EXAMPLE
Die Sauberkeit des Zimmers war beeindruckend.
The cleanliness of the room was impressive.
Use as an abstract noun
As an abstract noun, 'Sauberkeit' (cleanliness) is uncountable and has no plural. In general statements, it is often used without an article.
EXAMPLE
Sauberkeit ist für viele Menschen sehr wichtig.
Cleanliness is very important to many people.
Typical collocations
Common phrases related to hygiene are 'auf Sauberkeit achten' (to pay attention to cleanliness), 'Wert auf Sauberkeit legen' (to place importance on cleanliness), or 'für Sauberkeit sorgen' (to ensure cleanliness).
EXAMPLE
Bitte achte im Bad auf besondere Sauberkeit.
Please pay special attention to cleanliness in the bathroom.
Figurative meaning
The figurative meaning of 'Sauberkeit' (integrity) refers to moral or financial integrity. It is often used in the context of politics, business, or law to express transparency and honesty.
EXAMPLE
Der Politiker versprach absolute Sauberkeit bei der Aufklärung des Skandals.
The politician promised absolute integrity in the investigation of the scandal.
Compare with
Sauberkeit vs Ordnung
order
'die Ordnung' and 'die Sauberkeit' both describe a good condition in a room or place. 'Ordnung' mainly means that things are in their proper place and that everything is easy to find. 'Sauberkeit' mainly means that there is no dirt, dust, or stains. Learners may confuse the words because a tidy room often also appears clean. Still, a room is clean when the floor has been cleaned, and orderly when books, clothes, and other things are in the right places.
Sauberkeit
Im Restaurant achten die Gäste besonders auf die Sauberkeit der Tische.
In the restaurant, guests pay particular attention to the cleanliness of the tables.
Ordnung
Nach dem Umzug bringt Lena endlich Ordnung in ihre Küche.
After the move, Lena finally brings order to her kitchen.
In real life
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