01
das Wettrennen
race
A competition in which the goal is to cover a certain distance faster than the competitors.
example
Die Kinder veranstalteten ein Wettrennen bis zum Ende der Straße.
The children held a race to the end of the street.
das Wettrennen
race
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'Wett-' and 'Rennen' (race). The first part, 'Wett-', comes from 'die Wette' (the bet) and signals a competition. A 'Wettrennen' is therefore a race with a competitive character.
EXAMPLE
Das jährliche Seifenkisten-Wettrennen ist eine beliebte Tradition.
The annual soapbox race is a popular tradition.
Typical collocations
In the literal meaning, 'Wettrennen' (race) is often combined with verbs such as 'machen' (to do), 'veranstalten' (to hold/organize), or 'sich liefern' (to have with each other). The preposition 'gegen' (against) is used to name the opponent.
EXAMPLE
Die beiden Sportler lieferten sich ein spannendes Wettrennen.
The two athletes had an exciting race.
Sentence structure with 'um'
In the figurative meaning, the goal of the competition is almost always expressed with the preposition 'um' and the accusative. This pattern is typical in contexts from business, science, or politics.
EXAMPLE
Die Firmen befinden sich in einem Wettrennen um die besten Mitarbeiter.
The companies are in a race for the best employees.
Context clue
The preposition 'um' is a strong signal for the figurative meaning. If the sentence refers to abstract goals such as 'Marktanteile' (market share), 'Innovation' (innovation), or 'Macht' (power), the second, figurative meaning is almost always intended.
EXAMPLE
Zwischen den Supermächten gab es ein Wettrennen ins All.
There was a race into space between the superpowers.
Compare with
Wettrennen vs Lauf
run / course / barrel
'der Lauf' and 'das Wettrennen' can both refer to movement over a distance. However, 'der Lauf' is more general and can also simply mean running as a sport without a direct opponent. 'das Wettrennen' is always a competition: someone tries to reach the finish faster than others. It can also be used figuratively for a competition, for example in research or business. The words can be confused because a 'Wettrennen' is often also a 'Lauf'. If the competition is important, 'Wettrennen' is more precise. If only the sporting movement is meant, 'Lauf' fits better.
Wettrennen
Im Garten machen die Kinder ein Wettrennen bis zum alten Baum.
In the garden, the children are having a race to the old tree.
Lauf
Der Lauf am Morgen hilft mir, wach zu werden.
The morning run helps me wake up.
In real life
Loading video examples...