01
der Sturm
storm
A weather event with very strong wind, often accompanied by rain, snow, or hail.
example
Der Sturm hat viele Bäume entwurzelt und Dächer abgedeckt.
The storm uprooted many trees and tore roofs off.
der Sturm
storm
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 04
Usage tips
Word family
'Der Sturm' (the storm) is the noun related to the verb 'stürmen' (to storm). 'Stürmen' means to move quickly and forcefully, which describes the core idea of the weather, an attack, or strong emotions.
EXAMPLE
Die Fans stürmten nach dem Sieg auf das Spielfeld.
The fans stormed onto the field after the victory.
Common word combinations
'Sturm' (storm) is a common base word in compound nouns that describe the type of storm more precisely. Examples include 'Schneesturm' (snowstorm), 'Sandsturm' (sandstorm), 'Herbststurm' (autumn storm), and also 'Gefühlssturm' (storm of emotions).
EXAMPLE
Eine Sturmwarnung wurde für die gesamte Küste ausgegeben.
A storm warning was issued for the entire coast.
Metaphorical use
The idea of a violent storm is often transferred to strong emotions. The structure is typically 'ein Sturm der/des' (a storm of) followed by an emotion in the genitive.
EXAMPLE
Die Entscheidung löste einen Sturm der Entrüstung aus.
The decision triggered a storm of outrage.
Context: attack
In the meaning 'Angriff' (attack), 'Sturm' (assault/attack) is usually used in military, historical, or sports contexts. A typical combination is with the preposition 'auf' (on/against) and an accusative object.
EXAMPLE
Der Sturm auf das gegnerische Tor war erfolgreich.
The attack on the opposing goal was successful.
Fixed expression
The idiom 'etwas/jemanden im Sturm erobern' (to take something/someone by storm) means to win someone's affection or approval very quickly and successfully. The object often stands between 'im Sturm' and 'erobern'.
EXAMPLE
Die neue Sängerin eroberte mit ihrer Stimme die Herzen des Publikums im Sturm.
The new singer took the audience's hearts by storm with her voice.
Compare with
Sturm vs Angriff
attack
'der Angriff' and 'der Sturm' can both mean an offensive action, especially in the military or in sports. 'der Angriff' is the more general word: it can be a hostile action or, in sports, an action aimed at scoring points. In this meaning, 'der Sturm' refers more to a fast, forceful attack. Also, 'der Sturm' very often means strong weather, so the context has to be clear. Learners can confuse the words because both fit combat or sports situations. For the neutral action, 'Angriff' is usually more precise; for something very fast and forceful, 'Sturm' fits.
Sturm
Mit einem starken Sturm auf das Tor brachte die Mannschaft den Gegner unter Druck.
With a strong assault on the goal, the team put the opponent under pressure.
Angriff
Der Angriff der Gastmannschaft war gut geplant, aber der Torwart hielt den Ball.
The visiting team's attack was well planned, but the goalkeeper saved the ball.
In real life
Loading video examples...