der Zuschauer
spectator / viewer
A person who watches an event, performance, or broadcast.
EXAMPLE
Die Zuschauer im Stadion jubelten ihrer Mannschaft zu.
The spectators in the stadium cheered for their team.
der Zuschauer
spectator / viewer
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
'Zuschauer' (spectator/viewer) is derived from the separable verb 'zuschauen' (to watch). The prefix 'zu-' indicates turning toward something, so 'to look in a direction.' A Zuschauer is therefore a person who deliberately watches something.
EXAMPLE
Ich schaue gerne den Wolken am Himmel zu.
I like watching the clouds in the sky.
Typical contexts
The word is used for people at many different kinds of events. Typical places are 'im Stadion' (in the stadium), 'im Theater' (in the theater), 'im Kino' (in the cinema), or also 'vor dem Fernseher' (in front of the TV).
EXAMPLE
Die Sendung hatte gestern Abend Millionen von Zuschauern.
The show had millions of viewers last night.
Typical verbs
Spectators are not always passive. Common verbs that describe what spectators do are 'jubeln' (to cheer), 'applaudieren' (to applaud), or 'mitfiebern' (to be emotionally involved / to root along).
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Tor jubelten die Zuschauer laut.
After the goal, the spectators cheered loudly.
Compare with
Zuschauer vs Besucher
visitor
Der Zuschauer watches an event, performance, or broadcast. Der Besucher is described mainly in terms of visiting a place or attending an event; they may also watch something there. If the question is about watching, use Zuschauer; if it is about being present at or going to a place, use Besucher.
Zuschauer
Der Zuschauer verfolgt das spannende Theaterstück aufmerksam.
The spectator watched the exciting play attentively.
Besucher
Der Besucher kommt ins Theater, um das neue Stück zu sehen.
The visitor went to the theater to see the new play.
In real life
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