01
das Tablet
tablet
A portable computer with a touchscreen as its main control element, sized between a smartphone and a laptop.
example
Im Zug schaue ich gerne Filme auf meinem Tablet.
On the train, I like watching films on my tablet.
das Tablet
tablet
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Meanings
Usage tips
False friend
'Das Tablet' is the electronic device. A pill or medication is called 'die Tablette' in German. Although the words sound similar, the meaning is completely different.
EXAMPLE
Der Arzt hat mir Tabletten gegen die Kopfschmerzen verschrieben.
The doctor prescribed me tablets for the headache.
Correct preposition
When describing what you do with the device, you usually use the preposition 'auf' (on). You read, play, or watch something 'auf dem Tablet' (on the tablet).
EXAMPLE
Ich lese abends gerne die Nachrichten auf dem Tablet.
In the evening, I like reading the news on the tablet.
Typical verbs
Common verbs used with 'Tablet' (tablet) are 'benutzen' (to use), 'einschalten' (to turn on), 'ausschalten' (to turn off), and 'aufladen' (to charge). These describe the basic handling of the device.
EXAMPLE
Bitte vergiss nicht, dein Tablet vor der Reise aufzuladen.
Please don't forget to charge your tablet before the trip.
Compare with
Tablet vs Computer
computer
'der Computer' and 'das Tablet' can both be devices used for digital activities, such as writing, reading, or searching the internet. However, 'Computer' is the more general word and often refers to a device with a keyboard, mouse, or many programs. 'Tablet' is more specific: it is portable and is mainly operated via a touchscreen. Learners may confuse the words because a tablet is also a type of computer. In everyday language, however, you say 'Tablet' when you mean exactly this flat device with a screen.
Tablet
Beim Arzt habe ich auf dem Tablet ein Formular ausgefüllt.
At the doctor's office, I filled out a form on the tablet.
Computer
Im Büro arbeiten wir heute am Computer.
Today we are working at the computer in the office.
In real life
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