01
speisen
to dine
In elevated language, used for eating a meal, often in a formal or festive setting.
example
Wir werden heute Abend im Sternerestaurant speisen.
We will dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant this evening.
speisen
to dine / supply
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The verb 'speisen' (to dine/feed) is closely related to the noun 'die Speise' (the food, the dish). This connection helps you understand the basic meaning of eating.
EXAMPLE
Als Vorspeise gab es einen Salat.
There was a salad as the appetizer.
Context clues
You can recognize the meaning from the context: If it is about people and food, 'speisen' (to eat/dine) is meant. In technology and energy contexts, 'speisen' (to supply/feed) is meant. The reflexive form 'sich speisen aus' (to stem from) is used for abstract sources.
EXAMPLE
Die Gäste speisten im großen Saal des Schlosses.
The guests dined in the large hall of the castle.
Register: elevated language
In the meaning 'eine Mahlzeit einnehmen' (to have a meal), 'speisen' (to dine) is used mainly in elevated or formal language. It sounds more elegant and festive.
EXAMPLE
Die königliche Familie speist jeden Abend um Punkt acht Uhr.
The royal family dines every evening at exactly eight o'clock.
Register: technical language
When it is about supplying energy or data, 'speisen' (to feed/supply) is a technical term. The subject is often a device or a system.
EXAMPLE
Das Kraftwerk speist Strom ins Netz.
The power plant feeds electricity into the grid.
Fixed construction
This meaning is always used in the reflexive construction 'sich speisen aus' (to stem from) + dative. It describes the source or origin of something abstract, such as feelings or ideas.
EXAMPLE
Sein Hass speist sich aus einem tiefen Gefühl der Ungerechtigkeit.
His hatred stems from a deep feeling of injustice.
Compare with
speisen vs essen
to eat
'essen' and 'speisen' can both mean eating a meal. 'essen' is the normal and neutral word for everyday life, family, work, and restaurants. 'speisen' sounds elevated, ceremonial, or somewhat old-fashioned. It is used more for a festive meal, in a very elegant restaurant, or in formal texts. In normal situations, 'speisen' often sounds too strong or ironic.
speisen
Nach der Hochzeit speisten die Gäste in einem eleganten Saal.
After the wedding, the guests dined in an elegant hall.
essen
Vor dem Termin isst meine Nachbarin noch schnell ein Brot.
Before the appointment, my neighbor quickly eats a slice of bread.
In real life
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