01
der Schlitten
sled
A vehicle with runners that is used to glide over snow or ice, often for fun or for transport.
example
Die Kinder fuhren mit dem Schlitten den Hügel hinunter.
The children rode the sled down the hill.
der Schlitten
sled / car / slide
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Typical collocation
The most common and important phrase with this word is 'Schlitten fahren' (to go sledding). This describes the activity of gliding down a snow-covered hill on a sled.
EXAMPLE
Am Wochenende wollen wir mit den Kindern Schlitten fahren gehen.
At the weekend we want to go sledding with the children.
Colloquial meaning
In colloquial speech, 'Schlitten' is used as an admiring or approving expression for a large, expensive car. You should use this meaning only in informal conversations.
EXAMPLE
Wow, schau dir mal den tollen Schlitten an, der da parkt!
Wow, just look at that awesome car parked there!
Context clues
The context makes clear which meaning is intended. Words like 'Schnee' (snow) or 'Winter' (winter) point to the vehicle. Car brands or words like 'teuer' (expensive) point to the car. Technical terms like 'Maschine' (machine) signal the component.
EXAMPLE
Der neue Schlitten hat über 100.000 Euro gekostet.
The new car cost over 100,000 euros.
Technical terminology
In technical fields such as mechanical engineering or precision mechanics, 'Schlitten' refers to a movable component that slides on a guide. This meaning is limited to technical language.
EXAMPLE
Der Schlitten des Mikroskops muss für eine scharfe Abbildung justiert werden.
The microscope slide must be adjusted for a sharp image.
Compare with
Schlitten vs Auto
car
'das Auto' and 'der Schlitten' can both mean a car, but only in a specific colloquial sense. 'Auto' is the neutral and normal word. 'Schlitten' actually means a vehicle for snow, but colloquially it can refer to a large, expensive, or eye-catching car. This often sounds admiring or casual. Learners may confuse the words because 'Schlitten' is sometimes used for a car in conversation. In normal or formal situations, 'Auto' is safer and more precise.
Schlitten
Vor dem Hotel steht ein glänzender Schlitten mit Ledersitzen.
There is a shiny car with leather seats parked in front of the hotel.
Auto
Ich habe mein Auto gestern vor dem Haus geparkt.
I parked my car in front of the house yesterday.
In real life
Loading video examples...