The amount of water used by a person, household, city, or industry within a specific period of time.
example
Durch den Einbau einer neuen Spülmaschine konnten wir unseren Wasserverbrauch senken.
By installing a new dishwasher, we were able to reduce our water consumption.
Usage tips
Compound word
This word is made up of 'Wasser' (water) and 'Verbrauch' (consumption). 'Verbrauch' comes from the verb 'verbrauchen' (to consume/use up) and means the use of resources.
EXAMPLE
Der Wasserverbrauch in der Landwirtschaft ist im Sommer besonders hoch.
Water consumption in agriculture is especially high in summer.
Typical verbs
Water consumption can be actively influenced. Therefore, it is often used with verbs such as 'senken' (to lower/reduce), 'reduzieren' (to reduce), 'steigern' (to increase), or 'messen' (to measure).
EXAMPLE
Jeder kann dazu beitragen, den Wasserverbrauch zu senken.
Everyone can help reduce water consumption.
Typical specifications
Water consumption is often specified more precisely by stating who or what consumes the water. Common specifications are 'der private Wasserverbrauch' (private water consumption), 'der industrielle Wasserverbrauch' (industrial water consumption), or 'der Wasserverbrauch pro Kopf' (water consumption per capita).
EXAMPLE
Der durchschnittliche Wasserverbrauch pro Kopf ist in Deutschland in den letzten Jahren gesunken.
Average water consumption per capita in Germany has decreased in recent years.