gerade
currently · straight
Etwas ist nicht schief oder krumm, sondern in einer Linie oder aufrecht.
Definition & meaning
The word "gerade" is a highly versatile German term that functions as both an adjective and an adverb. It has several distinct meanings depending on the context:
- Spatial (Adjective): It describes something that is straight, linear, or upright. It indicates a lack of curves, bends, or angles.
- Mathematical (Adjective): It refers to even numbers (e.g., 2, 4, 10, 100), meaning they are divisible by two without a remainder.
- Temporal (Adverb): It indicates that an action is happening right now (at this very moment) or has occurred just a few moments ago.
- Emphasis (Adverb): It is used to highlight a specific point, often translated as "precisely," "exactly," or "of all things/people."
Grammar & Word origin
The word "gerade" originates from the Middle High German "gerade" and the Old High German "girad," which originally meant "quick," "skilful," or "ready." Over the centuries, the meaning shifted toward the concept of being "direct" or "straight."
In modern German:
- As an adjective, it can be declined and compared (gerade, gerader, am geradesten[?](vocabuo://word/am geradesten)).
- As an adverb, it is undeclined. In casual spoken German, it is frequently shortened to "grad".
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- For the spatial meaning: direkt, eben, or schnurgerade.
- For the temporal meaning: jetzt, soeben, or momentan.
- For emphasis: ausgerechnet or genau.
Antonyms:
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Examples
Ich bin gerade zu Hause.adverb
I am currently at home.
Er repariert gerade das Fahrrad.adverb
He is currently repairing the bicycle.
Er steht gerade an der Haltestelle.adverb
He is currently standing at the bus stop.
Er liest gerade ein Buch.adverb
He is currently reading a book.
Sie liest gerade ein Buch.adverb
She is currently reading a book.
Wir arbeiten gerade an dem Projekt.adverb
We are currently working on the project.
Die Straße ist ganz gerade und sehr lang.adjective
The street is completely straight and very long.
Der Tisch im Wohnzimmer ist ganz gerade und stabil.adjective
The table in the living room is completely straight and stable.
Das Bild hängt gerade an der Wand.adjective
The picture is hanging straight on the wall.
Die Straße zum Bahnhof ist ganz gerade und ohne Kurven.adjective
The street to the train station is completely straight and without curves.
Die Straße ist ganz gerade und lang.adjective
The street is completely straight and long.
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