01
der Strom
electricity
The electrical energy that comes from the outlet and is used to operate devices.
example
Vergiss nicht, den Stecker zu ziehen, das spart Strom.
Don't forget to unplug it; that saves electricity.
der Strom
electricity / river
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'der Strom' (electricity/river/stream) is closely related to the verb 'strömen' (to stream/flow). Both words describe a flowing movement, whether of water, people, or energy.
EXAMPLE
Das Wasser strömt den Berg hinab.
The water flows down the mountain.
Context clues
You can easily recognize the meaning of 'Strom' (electricity/river/stream) from the context. If it is about outlets, lamps, or bills, electricity is meant. With geographic names like 'Rhein' (Rhine) or 'Donau' (Danube), it is a river. In connection with people or cars, it means a large quantity.
EXAMPLE
Wir müssen diesen Monat für den Strom mehr bezahlen.
We have to pay more for electricity this month.
Typical collocations
When 'Strom' (electricity) means electricity, it is often combined with the verbs 'sparen' (to save), 'verbrauchen' (to consume), or 'produzieren' (to produce). A common phrase is also 'der Strom ist ausgefallen' (the power has gone out).
EXAMPLE
Mit neuen Geräten kann man viel Strom sparen.
With new devices, you can save a lot of electricity.
No plural
In the meaning 'elektrische Energie' (electrical energy), 'Strom' (electricity) is used as an uncountable noun. In this context, it has no plural form.
EXAMPLE
Für die Beleuchtung brauchen wir Strom.
We need electricity for the lighting.
Usage pattern
In the figurative meaning, 'Strom' (stream/flow) is often used in the construction 'ein Strom von + [plural noun]' (a stream of + [plural noun]). Examples are 'ein Strom von Touristen' (a stream of tourists) or 'ein Strom von Informationen' (a stream of information).
EXAMPLE
Ein Strom von Autos bewegte sich langsam durch die Innenstadt.
A stream of cars moved slowly through the city center.
Compare with
Strom vs Energie
energy
'Energie' and 'Strom' can both have to do with electricity in everyday language. 'Strom' usually means the electrical energy from the outlet that devices run on. 'Energie' is broader: it can mean electricity, heat, or fuel, but also a person's personal strength. For this reason, the words can be confused when talking about the home, costs, or devices. For lights, phones, or washing machines, people often say 'Strom'. When talking more generally about supply, consumption, or personal strength, 'Energie' fits better.
Strom
Im ganzen Haus war der Strom weg, deshalb blieb der Kühlschrank aus.
The electricity was out in the whole house, so the refrigerator stayed off.
Energie
Nach dem langen Arbeitstag hatte Maria keine Energie mehr zum Kochen.
After the long workday, Maria had no energy left to cook.
In real life
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