01
unter
under
Indicates a position that is spatially lower than something else.
example
Die Katze schläft unter dem Bett.
The cat is sleeping under the bed.
unter
under
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Two-way preposition
'Unter' is a two-way preposition. You use the dative for a position (question: 'Wo?' (Where?)) and the accusative for movement in a direction (question: 'Wohin?' (Where to?)).
EXAMPLE
Der Ball liegt unter dem Tisch. (Wo? → Dativ)
The ball is under the table. (Where? → dative)
Case in figurative uses
In most figurative, non-spatial meanings, 'unter' is used with the dative. This applies, for example, to conditions, groups, or numerical information.
EXAMPLE
Unter diesen Umständen ist das nicht möglich.
Under these circumstances, that is not possible.
As a prefix
As a verb prefix, 'unter-' can be separable or inseparable. The stress determines this: 'úntergehen' (separable, to sink / go down) has the stress on the prefix, while 'unterschréiben' (inseparable, to sign) has the stress on the verb stem.
EXAMPLE
Die Sonne geht am Horizont unter.
The sun is setting on the horizon.
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'in the midst of a group', 'unter' is often used in fixed expressions. Examples are 'unter uns gesagt' (between you and me / confidentially) or 'unter Freunden' (among friends).
EXAMPLE
Das bleibt aber unter uns, ja?
This stays between us, okay?
Expressing conditions
To express a condition, 'unter' is often used. Typical phrases are 'unter der Bedingung, dass…' (on the condition that…), 'unter diesen Umständen' (under these circumstances), or 'unter keinen Umständen' (under no circumstances).
EXAMPLE
Unter keinen Umständen darfst du diese Tür öffnen.
Under no circumstances may you open this door.
Indicating a limit
To express that a number, age, or value is not reached, you use 'unter' with the dative. It then means 'less than'.
EXAMPLE
Der Eintritt ist für Kinder unter 12 Jahren kostenlos.
Admission is free for children under 12 years old.
Compare with
unter vs von
from / of
'von' and 'unter' can both have to do with a group. 'von' is used when selecting one or more elements from a larger group: 'einer von den Gästen' (one of the guests), 'zwei von den Kindern' (two of the children). 'unter' more often describes that someone or something is in a group or is among others. Learners confuse the words because both can refer to a group. If you are selecting or counting, 'von' fits better. If you mean the position within a group, 'unter' fits better.
unter
Unter den Gästen war auch meine Nachbarin.
My neighbor was also among the guests.
von
Zwei von den Schülern fehlen heute.
Two of the students are absent today.
In real life
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