01
die Sprache
language
A system of words, grammar, and sounds used for communication by the people of a country or region.
example
Sie spricht fließend drei verschiedene Sprachen.
She speaks three different languages fluently.
die Sprache
language
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Die Sprache' (language) is the noun related to the verb 'sprechen' (to speak). This connection is fundamental: language is the system we use to speak.
EXAMPLE
Er spricht so leise, dass ich ihn kaum verstehe.
He speaks so quietly that I can hardly understand him.
Common compound words
The word '-sprache' (-language) forms the second part of many important nouns. Examples include 'Muttersprache' (native language), 'Fremdsprache' (foreign language), 'Fachsprache' (technical/specialized language), or 'Umgangssprache' (colloquial language).
EXAMPLE
Englisch ist für viele Menschen die erste Fremdsprache, die sie lernen.
For many people, English is the first foreign language they learn.
Typical verbs
When referring to a specific language such as German or English, the verbs 'lernen' (to learn), 'sprechen' (to speak), 'verstehen' (to understand), and 'beherrschen' (to master) are often used.
EXAMPLE
Um eine Sprache fließend zu beherrschen, muss man viel üben.
To master a language fluently, you have to practice a lot.
Context clue
The meaning 'ability to speak' is often recognized by certain verbs. It is typically used when someone loses or regains this ability, for example in 'die Sprache verlieren' (to lose one's speech) or 'die Sprache wiederfinden' (to regain one's speech).
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Schock hatte er für einen Moment die Sprache verloren.
After the shock, he lost his speech for a moment.
Fixed expression
The expression 'etwas zur Sprache bringen' (to bring something up) means to mention a topic. The topic being mentioned is always in the accusative.
EXAMPLE
Er hat seine Bedenken in der Sitzung zur Sprache gebracht.
He brought up his concerns in the meeting.
Context clue
When 'Sprache' (language/style) means a style, there is often an adjective before it that describes this style. Examples are 'einfache Sprache' (simple language), 'formelle Sprache' (formal language), 'bildhafte Sprache' (vivid/figurative language), or 'technische Sprache' (technical language).
EXAMPLE
Der Autor ist für seine klare und einfache Sprache bekannt.
The author is known for his clear and simple language.
Compare with
Sprache vs Stimme
voice / vote
'die Sprache' and 'die Stimme' both have to do with speaking, but they do not mean the same thing. 'Sprache' is the system of words and grammar, for example German, Turkish, or Spanish. It can also mean the ability to speak at all. 'Stimme' is the sound of a person when they speak or sing. So you can learn a language, but you hear a voice. The words are easy to confuse because both come together when speaking. The simple guide is: use 'Sprache' for words and grammar, and 'Stimme' for the sound of a person.
Sprache
In der Familie sprechen wir zwei Sprachen.
In our family, we speak two languages.
Stimme
Nach dem langen Vortrag war Emils Stimme ganz heiser.
After the long lecture, Emil's voice was completely hoarse.
In real life
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