die Tastatur
keyboard
An input device with keys used to operate a computer, a typewriter, or another electronic device.
EXAMPLE
Meine Tastatur ist kaputt, ich kann kein 'E' mehr tippen.
My keyboard is broken; I can't type an 'E' anymore.
die Tastatur
keyboard
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Meanings
die Tastatur
keyboard
The row of keys on a keyboard instrument, such as a piano, organ, or electronic keyboard.
EXAMPLE
Die Tastatur eines Konzertflügels umfasst 88 Tasten.
The keyboard of a concert grand piano has 88 keys.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'Tastatur' (keyboard) is derived from 'Taste' (key). The ending '-atur' often describes a system or a whole set, so here it means the whole set of keys.
EXAMPLE
Auf der Tastatur sind die Buchstaben und Zahlen angeordnet.
The letters and numbers are arranged on the keyboard.
Typical use
German often uses the preposition 'auf' with the dative to describe what you do with the keyboard. The typical actions are 'tippen' (to type) or 'spielen' (to play).
EXAMPLE
Er tippt sehr schnell auf der Tastatur.
He types very quickly on the keyboard.
Typical adjectives
In a technical context, 'Tastatur' is often combined with adjectives that describe the type or feature. Common examples are 'kabellose Tastatur' (wireless keyboard), 'mechanische Tastatur' (mechanical keyboard), or 'externe Tastatur' (external keyboard).
EXAMPLE
Ich bevorzuge eine kabellose Tastatur für mehr Ordnung auf dem Schreibtisch.
I prefer a wireless keyboard for a tidier desk.
Context clue
You can tell from the context whether the keys of a computer or of an instrument are meant. Words like 'Klavier' (piano), 'Orgel' (organ), 'spielen' (to play), or 'Töne' (notes/tones) clearly point to a musical instrument.
EXAMPLE
Die alte Orgel hat eine Tastatur aus Elfenbein.
The old organ has an ivory keyboard.
Compare with
Tastatur vs Keyboard
keyboard
Tastatur and Keyboard can both refer to a computer's set of keys. Tastatur is the neutral standard term in German. In this meaning, Keyboard is a less common anglicism; in normal conversations about computers, Tastatur is therefore usually more appropriate.
Tastatur
Für meinen neuen Computer brauche ich eine kabellose Tastatur.
I need a wireless keyboard for my new computer.
Keyboard
Für meinen neuen Computer brauche ich ein kabelloses Keyboard.
I need a wireless keyboard for my new computer.
In real life
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