01
der Test
test
An exam or procedure to check knowledge, skills, or the properties of something.
example
Morgen schreiben wir einen Test in Biologie.
Tomorrow we're taking a test in biology.
der Test
test
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Word family
The noun 'der Test' (the test) is the basis for the verb 'testen' (to test). If you know the noun, you can easily understand and use the verb.
EXAMPLE
Der Hersteller testet seine Produkte ausgiebig.
The manufacturer tests its products extensively.
Typical verbs
Depending on the context, different verbs are used with 'Test' (test). You 'schreibt' (write/take) a school test. You 'macht' (do/have) a medical test. A test in general can be 'bestehen' (passed) or not.
EXAMPLE
Alle Schüler haben den Test geschrieben.
All the students took the test.
Common compounds
'Test' (test) is a very productive word and forms many compound nouns. These specify exactly what is being tested, for example 'Sehtest' (eye test), 'Sprachtest' (language test), 'Stresstest' (stress test), or 'Drogentest' (drug test).
EXAMPLE
Vor dem Führerschein muss man einen Sehtest machen.
Before getting a driver's license, you have to take an eye test.
Medical context
In the medical field, people often speak of a 'positives' (positive) or 'negatives' (negative) test result. The construction 'sich testen lassen auf' (to get tested for) + accusative is also very common.
EXAMPLE
Ihr Corona-Test war zum Glück negativ.
Fortunately, her COVID test was negative.
Compare with
Test vs Versuch
attempt / experiment
'der Versuch' and 'der Test' can both mean that you try something out or check something. 'Versuch' puts more emphasis on trying, or on an attempt to reach a goal, often with an open outcome. In science, a 'Versuch' can also be an experiment. 'Test' puts stronger emphasis on checking: you want to know whether someone can do something, whether something works, or whether an illness is present. Learners may confuse the words because with both, you want to find something out. As a simple guide: with 'Versuch', trying something out is the main focus; with 'Test', checking or testing is the main focus.
Test
Vor der Reise macht Paul einen Test, weil er sicher sein will, dass er gesund ist.
Before the trip, Paul takes a test because he wants to be sure he is healthy.
Versuch
Nach zwei Fehlern macht Lisa noch einen Versuch, das Regal richtig aufzubauen.
After two mistakes, Lisa makes one more attempt to assemble the shelf correctly.
In real life
Loading video examples...