die Auskunft, ¨-e

The German word "Auskunft" is a noun that means "information" or "inquiry".

• It is made up of two parts:
  • "Aus" means out or from
  • "Kunst" comes from the verb "kunften" (old form), meaning to know or to get knowledge (Note: the current noun Kunst means art, but here it’s unrelated.)

"Auskunft" refers to providing or receiving information, often in the context of answering questions or giving directions.

Similar words:

• Information – general term for data or knowledge
• Meldung – report or announcement
• Angabe – statement or indication

Differences:

• Auskunft is typically used when actively giving precise or requested information, often in service contexts (e.g., at a help desk).
• Information is a broader term that can be more abstract or general.
• Meldung often implies an official or formal announcement.
• Angabe refers to factual information provided or stated, sometimes in forms or documents.