das Spiel, -e
game
Eine Aktivität, bei der Menschen Spaß haben, oft nach bestimmten Regeln handeln und manchmal gewinnen oder verlieren können.
The German word „Spiel“ is a noun meaning "game," "play," or "match." It refers broadly to any kind of structured activity for entertainment, sport, or amusement.
- Words it is made of: The word "Spiel" itself is a root noun and isn’t a compound or formed from smaller German words (excluding prefixes, as requested).
Similar words:
- Spielerei – a little game or pastime, sometimes trivial or playful activity
- Match – borrowed term for competitive sports game
- Spielchen – diminutive form, meaning a small or trivial game
- Spielraum – literally "room for play," metaphorically meaning room for maneuver or flexibility
Difference:
- "Spiel" is the general term for any game or play.
- "Spielerei" and "Spielchen" often imply a less serious or smaller activity.
- "Spielraum" is metaphorical, not referring directly to a game but to possibilities or freedom to act.
- Specific words like "Match" refer to organized competitive games.
In short, „Spiel“ is the broad and standard noun for "game" or "play".
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Examples
Wir spielen ein Spiel.noun
We are playing a game.
Das Spiel beginnt um 15 Uhr.noun
The game begins at 3 PM.
Das Spiel beginnt um acht Uhr.noun
The game begins at eight o'clock.
Ohne das Spiel war der Abend langweilig.noun
Without the game the evening was boring.
Magst du dieses Spiel wirklich?noun
Do you really like this game?
Nach dem Spiel waren alle sehr müde.noun
After the game everyone was very tired.
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