01
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
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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 Taste
key / button
'die Tastatur' and 'die Taste' are closely related. A keyboard consists of many keys, for example on a computer or a piano. 'Taste' means just one individual part that you press. 'Tastatur' means the whole surface or row with many keys. Learners may confuse the words because both occur in the same situations. If you mean just one button or key, you say 'Taste'. If you mean the whole device or the whole row of keys, you say 'Tastatur'.
Tastatur
Nach dem Umzug findet Max seine Tastatur für den Computer nicht mehr.
After the move, Max can no longer find his keyboard for the computer.
Taste
Drück bitte die grüne Taste, dann startet das Gerät.
Please press the green button; then the device will start.
In real life
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