das Gewitter, –
thunderstorm
Ein wetterbedingtes Ereignis mit Blitz, Donner, starkem Wind und oft auch Regen.
The German word "Gewitter" is a noun meaning "thunderstorm". It is composed of two parts:
- Gewit: related to an old root meaning "wild" or "stormy"
- -ter: a suffix used in noun formation (not a standalone word here)
Gewitter refers to a storm with thunder, lightning, and typically heavy rain.
Similar words:
- Sturm (storm) – more general, can be windstorm without thunder
- Unwetter (severe weather) – broader term, includes thunderstorms but also extreme weather like hail or tornadoes
Difference:
- "Gewitter" specifically means a thunderstorm with thunder and lightning.
- "Sturm" emphasizes strong winds, often without thunder.
- "Unwetter" covers severe or extreme weather conditions beyond just thunderstorms.
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Examples
Heute kommt ein starkes Gewitter.noun
A strong thunderstorm is coming today.
Bald beginnt ein starkes Gewitter.noun
A strong thunderstorm will start soon.
Heute kommt ein Gewitter mit viel Regen.noun
Today a thunderstorm is coming with a lot of rain.
Das Gewitter dauert nur kurze Zeit.noun
The thunderstorm only lasts a short time.
Viele Kinder fürchten das Gewitter.noun
Many children fear the thunderstorm.
Die Gewitter im Sommer waren sehr laut.noun
The thunderstorms in summer were very loud.
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