selbe
same
Definition & meaning
The word "selbe" (often used with the definite article as "der/die/das selbe") refers to identity or sameness. It indicates that two or more things are exactly one and the same entity, not just similar things.
- Identity: When referring to the exact same object or person previously mentioned (e.g., "Er trägt heute das selbe Hemd wie gestern" - He is wearing the same shirt today as he was yesterday).
- Emphasis: It can be used to emphasize that something is identical in its essence or specific character.
Grammar & Word origin
"Selbe" is a demonstrative pronoun that must always be preceded by a definite article (der, die, das). Because it follows the article, it is declined according to the gender, number, and case of the noun it modifies.
- Origin: It originates from the Middle High German "selbe," which is related to the Old High German "selbo" and the Germanic root "selbaz," meaning "self."
It is often confused with "gleiche." While "selbe" denotes identity (the one and only object), "gleich" denotes similarity (two different objects that look or function exactly the same).
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
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Examples
Im nächsten Jahr fahren sie an denselben Ort.other
Next year they are going to the same place.
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