01
das Tier
animal
A living being that is not a human or a plant, especially a mammal, bird, fish, reptile, or insect.
example
Im Zoo kann man viele exotische Tiere beobachten.
At the zoo, you can observe many exotic animals.
das Tier
animal
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Tier' (animal) is the base word for many useful compounds. Examples include 'das Haustier' (pet), 'das Wildtier' (wild animal), or 'der Tierarzt' (vet).
EXAMPLE
Viele Kinder wünschen sich ein Haustier, zum Beispiel einen Hund oder eine Katze.
Many children want a pet, for example a dog or a cat.
Context clue
When 'Tier' (animal) is used for a person, the context is crucial. As an insult, it describes brutal behavior; as a compliment, however, it describes exceptional strength or performance, often in sports.
EXAMPLE
Er schrie und warf mit Sachen – er benahm sich wie ein wildes Tier.
He screamed and threw things—he behaved like a wild animal.
Typical verbs
Certain verbs are often used in connection with animals. These include 'Tiere halten' (to keep animals, as pets), 'Tiere füttern' (to feed animals), and 'Tiere beobachten' (to observe animals).
EXAMPLE
Im Streichelzoo ist es erlaubt, die Ziegen zu füttern.
At the petting zoo, it is allowed to feed the goats.
Register
The approving use of 'Tier' (animal/beast) for a person is very colloquial. It is mostly used among friends or in informal situations.
EXAMPLE
Wow, du hast die ganze Kiste allein getragen? Du bist echt ein Tier!
Wow, you carried the whole crate by yourself? You're a real beast!
Compare with
Tier vs Mensch
human / person
'der Mensch' and 'das Tier' are often contrasted when describing living beings. 'Mensch' means a person or humans as a group. 'Tier' means a living being that is not a human and not a plant, for example a dog, bird, or fish. The words can be confused because humans are also living beings biologically, and sometimes people talk about living beings in general. In normal German, however, there is a clear distinction: humans are 'Menschen', while other living beings of this kind are 'Tiere'.
Tier
Im Park sah meine Freundin ein kleines Tier unter der Bank.
In the park, my friend saw a small animal under the bench.
Mensch
Der Mensch verändert die Natur durch Straßen und Häuser.
Humans change nature through roads and houses.
In real life
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