das Ding, -e
thing
Es ist ein Gegenstand, den man sehen oder anfassen kann, ohne seine genaue Art zu benennen.
The German word "Ding" is a noun meaning "thing" or "object". It refers to any physical item, an entity, or sometimes abstract matters.
- The word itself is simple and standalone, not composed of smaller meaningful parts.
Similar words include:
- Gegenstand (object, item) — usually refers more specifically to physical objects.
- Sache (thing, matter) — often refers to both tangible objects and abstract matters.
- Artikel (article) — usually refers to manufactured goods or written pieces.
Difference:
- Ding is general and informal; can refer to anything physical or intangible.
- Gegenstand is more precise, typically physical objects.
- Sache can imply legal or abstract aspects, like "a matter" or "an issue."
- Artikel often has a formal or commercial meaning.
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Examples
Ich finde das Ding nicht.noun
I can't find the thing.
Was ist das für ein Ding?noun
What is that thing?
Das Ding liegt neben der Lampe.noun
The thing is lying next to the lamp.
Dieses Ding gehört mir.noun
This thing belongs to me.
Ein Ding liegt auf dem Tisch.noun
A thing lies on the table.
Ein Ding fällt auf den Boden.noun
A thing falls to the ground.
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