01
streicheln
to stroke / pet
To move one's hand gently and affectionately over the surface of someone or something, especially an animal.
example
Das Kind liebt es, den Hund zu streicheln.
The child loves to pet the dog.
streicheln
to stroke / pet
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Streicheln' (to stroke/pet) is a diminutive form of 'streichen' (to stroke/brush). It describes a gentler, often repeated, and more affectionate touch than the neutral 'streichen'.
EXAMPLE
Sie streichelte sanft über den Stoff des Kleides.
She gently stroked the fabric of the dress.
Sentence structure with body parts
There are two typical sentence patterns. Either you directly stroke the object (accusative), or you stroke over a body part (accusative) of a person (dative).
EXAMPLE
Er streichelt seine Katze.
He pets his cat.
Poetic register
When 'streicheln' (to caress) is used in connection with natural phenomena like wind or sun, it has a poetic or literary effect. It describes a very gentle touch.
EXAMPLE
Die Abendsonne streichelte die Berggipfel.
The evening sun caressed the mountain peaks.
Fixed expression
The reflexive construction 'sich gestreichelt fühlen' (to feel flattered) means that one feels flattered by praise or recognition. The cause is often introduced with 'durch' (through/by).
EXAMPLE
Durch das positive Feedback fühlte sie sich sichtlich gestreichelt.
Because of the positive feedback, she visibly felt flattered.
Compare with
streicheln vs schlagen
to hit / beat
'schlagen' and 'streicheln' both describe touching with the hand, but they are clear opposites. 'schlagen' is hard, quick, and violent. 'streicheln' is gentle, slow, and usually affectionate. 'Schlagen' hurts or can cause fear; 'streicheln' is meant to calm someone or show affection. So the difference is mainly in the kind of touch and the intention.
streicheln
Sie streichelt den Hund, damit er ruhig bleibt.
She pets the dog so that it stays calm.
schlagen
Er schlug mit der Hand gegen die Wand.
He hit the wall with his hand.
In real life
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