verb

einkaufen

shop

Etwas in einem Laden oder Geschäft gegen Geld erwerben.

The German word "einkaufen" is a verb that means "to shop" or "to buy (groceries or other goods)". It is derived from the prefix "ein" (meaning "in" or "into") and the verb "kaufen" (meaning "to buy").

Similar words in German include:

  1. Kaufen: Generally means "to buy" or "to purchase".
  2. Einkehren: Can also mean to stop by a shop or store, though it's often used in the sense of stopping by for rest (e.g., at a restaurant or guesthouse).
  3. Erwerben: Means "to acquire" or "to purchase," often used in more formal or academic contexts.
  4. Besorgen: Means "to procure" or "to get," often used when referring to obtaining something on behalf of someone.

Differences:

  1. Kaufen: This is more general. "Einkaufen" often implies shopping for multiple items (such as groceries) or the act of shopping as an outing.
  2. Einkehren: More specific to stopping somewhere, particularly for a rest, rather than just for purchasing goods.
  3. Erwerben: This is a more formal or academic term, often used in contexts like property, skills, or knowledge.
  4. Besorgen: Generally used when obtaining items for someone else or managing errands.

"Einkaufen" emphasizes the act and experience of shopping, often as a routine or trip, while the other terms have more specific nuances related to buying or obtaining goods.

Make “einkaufen” part of your vocabulary.

Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.

Examples

Er geht heute Nachmittag einkaufen.verb

He goes shopping this afternoon.

Sie geht einkaufen.verb

She goes shopping.

Er muss noch einkaufen.verb

He still has to shop.

Keep exploring German

Learn words from the content you love.

Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).