01
der Zitronensaft
lemon juice
The sour liquid obtained by squeezing lemons.
example
Für das Dressing benötigst du Olivenöl, Salz, Pfeffer und frischen Zitronensaft.
For the dressing, you need olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice.
der Zitronensaft
lemon juice
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Meanings
Usage tips
Compound structure
The word is a clear compound of 'Zitrone' (lemon) and 'Saft' (juice). The 'n' is a linking element that connects the two nouns. The meaning is therefore literally 'juice from a lemon'.
EXAMPLE
Ich trinke morgens gerne ein Glas Wasser mit frischem Zitronensaft.
In the morning, I like to drink a glass of water with fresh lemon juice.
Use as a mass noun
'Zitronensaft' (lemon juice) is a mass noun and is therefore usually uncountable. When speaking about the substance in general, no article is often used. The plural 'Zitronensäfte' is rare and means different kinds of lemon juice.
EXAMPLE
Für diesen Kuchen braucht man Zitronensaft und Zucker.
For this cake, you need lemon juice and sugar.
Typical quantities
In everyday language and in recipes, imprecise quantities such as 'ein Schuss Zitronensaft' (a splash of lemon juice) or 'ein Spritzer Zitronensaft' (a squeeze/spritz of lemon juice) are often used to describe a small amount.
EXAMPLE
Gib noch einen Schuss Zitronensaft in die Soße.
Add another splash of lemon juice to the sauce.
Compare with
Zitronensaft vs Essig
vinegar
'der Essig' and 'der Zitronensaft' are both sour liquids and are often used in cooking. That is why learners can easily confuse them, especially with salads or sauces. 'Essig' is made from alcohol and has a strong, sharp sour taste. It is typically used with salads, pickled vegetables, or for preserving food. 'Zitronensaft' comes from lemons and tastes fruity and sour. It often goes well with fish, tea, cake, or fresh sauces. If the acidity should be sharp and savory, you use Essig. If it should be fruity and fresh, you use Zitronensaft.
Zitronensaft
Mein Freund gibt etwas Zitronensaft in den Tee, damit er frischer schmeckt.
My friend adds a little lemon juice to the tea to make it taste fresher.
Essig
Für den Gurkensalat mischt Lena Essig mit Öl, Salz und Pfeffer.
For the cucumber salad, Lena mixes vinegar with oil, salt, and pepper.
In real life
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