01
der Schatten
shadow
A dark area that is created when an object blocks the light.
example
An dem heißen Sommertag saßen wir im Schatten eines großen Baumes.
On the hot summer day, we sat in the shadow of a large tree.
der Schatten
shadow
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Context clues
The literal meaning of 'Schatten' (shadow) refers to the absence of light. All other meanings are metaphorical and are usually part of fixed idioms that you should learn as a whole.
EXAMPLE
Die Katze schläft im Schatten unter dem Auto.
The cat is sleeping in the shadow under the car.
Prepositions and case
Pay attention to the case after the preposition 'in'. 'Im Schatten' (in the shadow; dative) describes a location, while 'in den Schatten' (into the shadow; accusative) describes movement.
EXAMPLE
Wir sitzen im Schatten.
We are sitting in the shadow.
Fixed expression
The metaphorical meaning of a negative aspect is almost always expressed with the verb 'werfen' (to cast/throw): 'einen Schatten auf etwas (Akkusativ) werfen' (to cast a shadow over something).
EXAMPLE
Der Skandal warf einen langen Schatten auf die Firma.
The scandal cast a long shadow over the company.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'jemanden/etwas in den Schatten stellen' (to put someone/something in the shadow; to outshine someone/something) is a fixed structure. It means that someone or something is much better.
EXAMPLE
Mit seinem neuen Rekord hat er alle anderen Läufer in den Schatten gestellt.
With his new record, he outshone all the other runners.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'über seinen Schatten springen' (to jump over one's shadow) means to overcome one's own fear or pride. The possessive pronoun ('seinen') changes according to the person.
EXAMPLE
Ich musste über meinen Schatten springen und mich entschuldigen.
I had to overcome myself and apologize.
Compare with
Schatten vs Licht
light
'das Licht' and 'der Schatten' are clear opposites. 'Licht' is the brightness that allows you to see. 'Schatten' is created where an object blocks the light and it becomes darker. The two words often belong together, especially with sun, lamps, or photos. When something is bright, you speak of 'Licht'. When a dark area is created by an obstacle, you speak of 'Schatten'.
Schatten
Am Nachmittag sitzen die Kinder im Schatten des großen Baumes.
In the afternoon, the children sit in the shade of the large tree.
Licht
Selma öffnet die Vorhänge, weil sie mehr Licht im Zimmer haben möchte.
Selma opens the curtains because she wants more light in the room.
In real life
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