schildern
to describe
To describe or recount something in detail and vividly.
EXAMPLE
Der Augenzeuge konnte der Polizei den Unfallhergang genau schildern.
The eyewitness was able to describe the course of the accident to the police in detail.
schildern
to describe
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'schildern' (to describe) is related to 'das Schild' (the sign/shield). Originally, shields were painted with pictures and scenes. This origin explains why 'schildern' means not just 'beschreiben' (to describe), but 'to describe vividly and in detail.'
EXAMPLE
In ihrem Buch schildert die Autorin ihre Kindheit auf dem Land.
In her book, the author describes her childhood in the countryside.
Register and style
'Schildern' (to describe) is a written-language word and is often used in formal or literary contexts. It sounds more refined than the everyday word 'beschreiben' (to describe).
EXAMPLE
In seinem Bericht schilderte der Forscher die Entdeckungen seiner Expedition.
In his report, the researcher described the discoveries from his expedition.
Sentence structure
The verb 'schildern' (to describe) is often used with a person in the dative and a thing in the accusative. The structure is: someone (subject) describes something (accusative) to someone (dative).
EXAMPLE
Kannst du mir deine Eindrücke von der Reise schildern?
Can you describe your impressions of the trip to me?
Typical collocations
Abstract things are often described with 'schildern' (to describe). Typical combinations are: 'Eindrücke schildern' (to describe impressions), 'Erlebnisse schildern' (to describe experiences), 'die Lage schildern' (to describe the situation), or 'einen Vorfall schildern' (to describe an incident).
EXAMPLE
Die Zeugin schilderte den Vorfall sehr emotional.
The witness described the incident very emotionally.
Compare with
schildern vs erzählen
to tell
Both words work when someone recounts an experience. „Erzählen“ presents the sequence of events more as a story, while „schildern“ highlights a precise and vivid description of events and impressions. „Schildern“ is therefore especially suitable for a lively account with details.
schildern
Auf der Heimfahrt schilderte Ben genau, wie er den Zug noch erreicht hatte.
On the way home, Ben described in detail how he had managed to catch the train.
erzählen
Auf der Heimfahrt erzählte Ben, wie er den Zug noch erreicht hatte.
On the way home, Ben told us how he had managed to catch the train.
In real life
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