räumen in 30 Sekunden
- Räumen: to clear, make space, tidy up, vacate.
- Common uses: clearing tables, tidying rooms, moving out.
- Often used with 'aufräumen' (to tidy up).
- Requires making space or removing items/people.
- Core Meaning
- The German verb 'räumen' primarily means to clear something away, to make space, or to vacate a place. It implies removing items or people from an area, often to prepare it for something new or simply to tidy up.
- Common Scenarios
- You'll hear 'räumen' used in various everyday situations. For example, when clearing a table after a meal ('den Tisch räumen'), tidying up a room ('das Zimmer räumen'), or when moving out of an apartment ('die Wohnung räumen'). It can also refer to clearing snow from a path ('den Schnee räumen') or even to a more general sense of making room for something or someone. In a figurative sense, it can mean to get rid of something or to dismiss someone. The context is crucial for understanding the precise meaning.
- Usage Nuances
- While 'räumen' is a versatile verb, it often carries a sense of purpose or necessity. You don't just 'räumen' for fun; you do it to achieve a specific outcome, such as creating space, allowing passage, or completing a task. It's a common verb that learners will encounter frequently as they progress through their German studies. Understanding its various applications will significantly enhance your comprehension and ability to communicate effectively in German.
Bitte räumen Sie Ihren Tisch, wenn Sie fertig sind.
Wir müssen das Wohnzimmer räumen, um Platz für die neuen Möbel zu schaffen.
- Synonymous Concepts
- Think of 'räumen' as the German equivalent of 'to clear', 'to tidy up', 'to make space', 'to vacate', 'to move out', or 'to shovel' (in the context of snow). The exact English translation depends heavily on the specific context.
Der Schnee muss von der Straße geräumt werden.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- The verb 'räumen' typically follows the standard German sentence structure. In a simple declarative sentence, it will appear in the second position, conjugated according to the subject. For example, 'Ich räume auf.' (I am tidying up.) or 'Du räumst den Tisch.' (You are clearing the table.). When used with a modal verb, 'räumen' will go to the end of the sentence in its infinitive form, like 'Ich muss mein Zimmer aufräumen.' (I have to tidy up my room.).
- With Direct Objects
- 'Räumen' is very often used with a direct object, which is what is being cleared. This object will be in the accusative case. Examples include: 'den Tisch' (the table), 'das Zimmer' (the room), 'die Straße' (the street), 'den Schreibtisch' (the desk), 'das Bett' (the bed), 'die Kisten' (the boxes), 'den Garten' (the garden), 'den Parkplatz' (the parking spot). So, you might say: 'Wir räumen die alten Möbel aus dem Keller.' (We are clearing the old furniture out of the basement.).
- Separable Prefix 'auf-'
- A very common form is 'aufräumen', which means to tidy up or clean up. This is a separable verb, meaning the prefix 'auf-' separates from the verb stem in main clauses and moves to the end of the sentence. For example: 'Ich räume mein Zimmer auf.' (I am tidying up my room.) vs. 'Ich räume auf.' (I am tidying up.). This is a crucial distinction for learners.
- Past Tense Usage
- In the perfect tense (Perfekt), 'räumen' uses the auxiliary verb 'haben'. The past participle is 'geräumt'. For instance: 'Sie hat den Tisch geräumt.' (She has cleared the table.) or 'Wir haben das Büro geräumt.' (We have cleared out the office.). For 'aufräumen', it would be 'aufgeräumt'. 'Ich habe mein Zimmer aufgeräumt.' (I have tidied up my room.).
- Imperative Forms
- The imperative forms are also common: 'Räum den Tisch!' (Clear the table! - informal singular), 'Räumt die Straße!' (Clear the street! - informal plural), 'Räumen Sie das Zimmer!' (Clear the room! - formal singular/plural). For 'aufräumen': 'Räum dein Zimmer auf!' (Tidy your room up! - informal singular).
Nach dem Essen müssen wir den Esstisch räumen.
Bitte räumen Sie Ihre Sachen vom Boden.
Der Vermieter hat uns gebeten, die Wohnung zu räumen.
- Common Verb Combinations
- Besides 'aufräumen', you might encounter 'leer räumen' (to empty and clear out) or 'weg räumen' (to clear away). For example: 'Wir müssen den alten Keller leer räumen.' (We have to empty out the old basement.).
- Household and Daily Chores
- In everyday German households, 'räumen' is a staple. You'll hear parents telling their children: 'Räum dein Zimmer auf!' (Tidy your room!) or 'Räum bitte den Tisch ab!' (Please clear the table!). After meals, it's common to say: 'Ich muss noch die Küche räumen.' (I still have to clear up the kitchen.). This verb is fundamental for describing the process of keeping a home tidy and organized. It's also used when preparing for guests or after a party: 'Wir müssen den Wohnbereich für die Gäste räumen.' (We need to clear the living area for the guests.).
- Moving and Relocation
- When people move house, 'räumen' is essential. 'Wir müssen die alte Wohnung bis Ende des Monats räumen.' (We have to vacate the old apartment by the end of the month.). This can also extend to office spaces or other commercial properties: 'Das Geschäft wird nächste Woche geräumt.' (The shop will be cleared out next week.). Landlords might use it when discussing the handover of a property: 'Bitte stellen Sie sicher, dass die Wohnung vollständig geräumt ist.' (Please ensure the apartment is completely cleared out.).
- Public Spaces and Services
- In public services, 'räumen' is frequently used for maintenance and safety. You'll hear announcements about snow removal: 'Die Straßen werden geräumt.' (The streets are being cleared.). Parking regulations might state: 'Bitte den Parkplatz räumen.' (Please clear the parking space.). In restaurants or cafes, staff might ask: 'Können Sie bitte den Tisch räumen?' (Can you please clear the table?). It's also used in contexts like clearing debris after construction or an event.
- Figurative and Less Common Uses
- While less common at the A2 level, 'räumen' can also be used figuratively. For example, to dismiss someone from a position: 'Der Manager wurde aus dem Amt geräumt.' (The manager was removed from office.). Or to clear one's mind: 'Ich muss meine Gedanken räumen.' (I need to clear my thoughts.). However, for learners, focusing on the literal meanings of clearing space and tidying is most beneficial.
Der Schneepflug ist unterwegs, um die Straßen zu räumen.
Wir müssen die alten Bücher aus dem Regal räumen.
Nach dem Umzug müssen wir die Kartons aus dem Flur räumen.
- Formal vs. Informal
- While 'räumen' itself is neutral, its context can vary. 'Aufräumen' is very common in informal, domestic settings. 'Die Wohnung räumen' when moving out is quite standard. In more official contexts, like a notice from authorities, it might sound more formal. For example, a sign: 'Bitte diesen Bereich frei räumen.' (Please clear this area.).
- Confusing 'räumen' with 'aufräumen'
- A very frequent error for learners is not distinguishing between 'räumen' and its common separable form 'aufräumen'. While 'räumen' can mean to clear something away, 'aufräumen' specifically means to tidy up or clean up a room or area. Using 'räumen' when you mean 'aufräumen' can sound slightly off or incomplete. For example, saying 'Ich räume mein Zimmer' might imply clearing it out entirely, whereas 'Ich räume mein Zimmer auf' clearly means tidying it up. Always consider if you mean general clearing or the specific act of tidying.
- Incorrect Verb Conjugation and Placement
- Like any verb, 'räumen' can be subject to conjugation errors. Learners might use the wrong ending for the subject or forget to place the verb correctly in sentence structures, especially with modal verbs or in subordinate clauses. For instance, in a main clause, the conjugated verb should be in the second position: 'Er räumt den Tisch.' (He clears the table.). In a subordinate clause, the conjugated verb goes to the end: '..., weil er den Tisch räumt.' (...because he clears the table.). With a modal verb, the infinitive 'räumen' goes to the end: 'Er kann den Tisch nicht räumen.' (He cannot clear the table.).
- Misuse of Separable Prefix
- This is particularly relevant for 'aufräumen'. Learners might forget to separate the prefix 'auf-' in main clauses. Instead of 'Ich räume mein Zimmer auf', they might incorrectly say 'Ich aufräume mein Zimmer'. Remember, in present tense main clauses, the prefix moves to the end. In past participles, it's integrated as 'aufgeräumt'.
- Confusing with Similar Verbs
- While 'räumen' is quite distinct, learners might sometimes confuse it with verbs like 'entfernen' (to remove) or 'wegwerfen' (to throw away). 'Räumen' implies making space or clearing an area, whereas 'entfernen' is a broader term for taking something away, and 'wegwerfen' is specifically about discarding. For example, you 'räumen' a table to eat, but you 'entfernen' a stain, and you 'wegwerfen' trash. Using 'räumen' to mean 'throw away' would be incorrect.
- Incorrect Prepositions or Cases
- 'Räumen' often takes a direct object in the accusative case. Forgetting this can lead to errors. For example, 'Ich räume den Tisch' is correct, while 'Ich räume dem Tisch' is incorrect. Also, when specifying where something is cleared from, prepositions like 'aus' are used: 'die Sachen aus dem Zimmer räumen'. Incorrect preposition usage can change the meaning or make the sentence ungrammatical.
Falsch: Ich aufräume mein Zimmer.
Richtig: Ich räume mein Zimmer auf.
Falsch: Ich räume dem Tisch.
Richtig: Ich räume den Tisch.
- 'aufräumen' vs. 'räumen'
- This is the most important distinction. 'Räumen' is the general verb for clearing space or vacating. 'Aufräumen' is a separable verb meaning 'to tidy up' or 'to clean up'.
- Example Comparisons:
- - 'Ich muss meinen Schreibtisch räumen.' (I need to clear my desk - perhaps to move it or make space for something large.)- 'Ich muss meinen Schreibtisch aufräumen.' (I need to tidy up my desk - put things in their place, organize.)The key is that 'aufräumen' implies order and tidiness, while 'räumen' is more about removal or vacating.
- 'entfernen' (to remove)
- 'Entfernen' is a more general term for taking something away or getting rid of it. It doesn't necessarily imply making space or tidying up in the same way 'räumen' or 'aufräumen' do.
- Example Comparisons:
- - 'Die Polizei musste die Demonstranten entfernen.' (The police had to remove the protesters.) - This implies forceful removal, not tidying.- 'Man kann diesen Fleck nicht räumen.' (One cannot clear this stain.) - This sentence sounds odd; 'entfernen' would be better: 'Man kann diesen Fleck nicht entfernen.' (One cannot remove this stain.)
- 'wegräumen' (to clear away, put away)
- This is another separable verb closely related to 'räumen'. It specifically means to clear something away and put it in its proper place.
- Example Comparisons:
- - 'Bitte räum die Spielsachen weg!' (Please clear away the toys!) - This implies putting them back in the toy box or storage.- 'Ich muss die alten Zeitungen wegräumen.' (I need to clear away the old newspapers.) - This suggests taking them to be recycled or discarded, but the focus is on clearing them from the current space.
- 'leeren' (to empty)
- 'Leeren' means to empty something, like a container or a room of its contents. It's often used in conjunction with 'räumen' or 'wegräumen'.
- Example Comparisons:
- - 'Wir müssen den Mülleimer leeren.' (We need to empty the trash can.)- 'Wir müssen den Keller leer räumen.' (We need to clear out the basement.) - Here, 'leer räumen' emphasizes emptying it completely.
Der Unterschied zwischen räumen und aufräumen ist wichtig.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
The connection to 'Raum' (space, room) is very direct. The act of 'räumen' is fundamentally about creating or utilizing space. Think of the phrase 'Raum schaffen' (to create space), which is very close in meaning to 'räumen'.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing the 'r' too strongly or like an English 'r'.
- Mispronouncing the 'äu' diphthong.
- Adding an extra syllable or stressing the wrong syllable.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
At A2 level, 'räumen' is encountered frequently in basic texts about daily life, chores, and moving. Understanding its core meanings of clearing and tidying is essential. Recognizing 'aufräumen' as a distinct but related concept is key.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Separable Verbs
'Aufräumen' is a separable verb. In main clauses, the prefix 'auf-' moves to the end: 'Ich räume mein Zimmer auf.'
Perfect Tense with 'haben'
'Räumen' forms the perfect tense with 'haben': 'Ich habe mein Zimmer geräumt.'
Accusative Case with Direct Objects
'Räumen' often takes a direct object in the accusative case: 'Ich räume den Tisch (accusative) ab.'
Passive Voice with 'werden'
The passive voice is formed with 'werden': 'Der Tisch wird geräumt.'
Imperative Forms
Informal singular imperative: 'Räum!'. Formal imperative: 'Räumen Sie!'
Beispiele nach Niveau
Ich räume mein Zimmer auf.
I tidy up my room.
Separable verb 'aufräumen'. Prefix 'auf' goes to the end in main clauses.
Bitte räume den Tisch ab.
Please clear the table.
The verb 'abräumen' is a synonym for clearing a table, often used in this specific context.
Wir müssen die Bücher weg räumen.
We need to put the books away.
Separable verb 'wegräumen'. 'Weg' means away.
Der Schnee ist weg, die Straße ist geräumt.
The snow is gone, the street is cleared.
Past participle 'geräumt' used in passive voice.
Ich muss das Bett machen.
I have to make the bed.
While not 'räumen', 'das Bett machen' is a related daily chore.
Kannst du bitte die Kisten in den Keller räumen?
Can you please move the boxes to the basement?
Direct object 'die Kisten' in accusative case.
Wir räumen unsere Wohnung.
We are clearing out our apartment.
Implies moving out or making space.
Der Tisch ist frei.
The table is free.
Related to the idea of a cleared space.
Nach dem Essen räumen wir den Tisch ab.
After the meal, we clear the table.
Common phrase 'den Tisch abräumen'.
Wir müssen die alten Möbel aus dem Keller räumen.
We need to clear the old furniture out of the basement.
Use of 'aus dem Keller' to specify location.
Bitte räumen Sie Ihre Schuhe vor der Tür.
Please leave your shoes in front of the door.
Implies clearing the entryway.
Der Parkplatz muss frei geräumt werden.
The parking space must be cleared.
Passive voice with 'werden'.
Ich habe mein Zimmer aufgeräumt.
I have tidied up my room.
Perfect tense of 'aufräumen'.
Die Kinder räumen ihre Spielsachen weg.
The children are putting their toys away.
Separable verb 'wegräumen'.
Der Laden wird nächste Woche geräumt.
The shop will be cleared out next week.
Future action indicated by context, passive voice.
Wir räumen Platz für die neuen Regale.
We are making space for the new shelves.
Figurative use of making space.
Der Vermieter verlangt, dass wir die Wohnung bis Monatsende räumen.
The landlord demands that we vacate the apartment by the end of the month.
Subordinate clause with 'dass', verb 'räumen' at the end.
Nach dem Sturm mussten die Anwohner ihre Grundstücke von Trümmern räumen.
After the storm, residents had to clear their properties of debris.
Use of 'von Trümmern' to specify what is being cleared.
Die Behörden ordneten an, das illegale Camp zu räumen.
The authorities ordered the illegal camp to be cleared out.
Modal verb 'ordnen an' followed by infinitive clause.
Es ist wichtig, den Arbeitsplatz regelmäßig aufzuräumen.
It is important to tidy up the workplace regularly.
Infinitive clause with 'aufräumen'.
Sie hat das Chaos im Kinderzimmer gründlich aufgeräumt.
She thoroughly tidied up the chaos in the children's room.
Adverb 'gründlich' modifying 'aufgeräumt'.
Wir müssen den alten Keller komplett leer räumen.
We need to completely empty out the old basement.
Compound separable verb 'leerräumen'.
Der Schneepflug hat die Hauptstraße geräumt.
The snowplow has cleared the main street.
Perfect tense with 'haben'.
Er räumte seine Gedanken, um sich auf die Prüfung zu konzentrieren.
He cleared his thoughts to concentrate on the exam.
Figurative use: 'Gedanken räumen'.
Die Stadtverwaltung plant, das veraltete Hafengebiet zu räumen und neu zu gestalten.
The city administration plans to clear out the outdated harbor area and redesign it.
Complex sentence structure with future plans.
Nach dem Brand wurde das beschädigte Gebäude vorsichtig geräumt, um weitere Schäden zu verhindern.
After the fire, the damaged building was carefully cleared to prevent further damage.
Passive voice with 'wurden' and adverb 'vorsichtig'.
Der intensivste Teil des Umzugs war, die gesamten Büromaterialien aus dem alten Stockwerk zu räumen.
The most intensive part of the move was clearing all the office supplies from the old floor.
Superlative adjective 'intensivste' and genitive case 'des Umzugs'.
Es ist unerlässlich, dass wir diesen Bereich vor der Ankunft der Gäste vollständig aufgeräumt haben.
It is essential that we have completely tidied this area before the guests arrive.
Subjunctive mood ('haben') in subordinate clause, perfect tense of 'aufräumen'.
Der Künstler musste seinen Stand auf dem Markt räumen, da er keine Genehmigung hatte.
The artist had to clear his stall at the market because he didn't have a permit.
Use of 'da' for reason, past tense of 'räumen'.
Die Polizei hat das Gebiet weiträumig abgesperrt und begann, die unbefugten Personen zu räumen.
The police cordoned off the area widely and began to clear out the unauthorized persons.
Compound verb 'absperren' and 'räumen' used for crowd control.
Um Platz für die neue Ausstellung zu schaffen, musste das Museum viele Exponate auslagern und den Saal räumen.
To make space for the new exhibition, the museum had to store many exhibits and clear out the hall.
Infinitive clause with 'um...zu' and two infinitives at the end.
Er fand es schwierig, sich von alten Gewohnheiten zu räumen, die ihm nicht mehr dienten.
He found it difficult to rid himself of old habits that no longer served him.
Figurative use: 'sich von etwas räumen' (to rid oneself of something).
Die anhaltende Erosion zwang die Küstenbewohner, ihre Häuser und Ländereien zu räumen.
The persistent erosion forced the coastal inhabitants to vacate their homes and lands.
Abstract noun 'Erosion', complex sentence structure.
Die Regierung sah sich gezwungen, die Protestierenden vom Platz zu räumen, um die öffentliche Ordnung wiederherzustellen.
The government saw itself forced to clear the protesters from the square to restore public order.
Passive construction 'sich gezwungen sehen' and infinitive clause.
Nach der Entdeckung der kontaminierten Zone wurde die Bevölkerung angewiesen, die betroffenen Gebiete umgehend zu räumen.
After the discovery of the contaminated zone, the population was instructed to immediately vacate the affected areas.
Passive voice with 'wurden angewiesen' and adverb 'umgehend'.
Die Archäologen mussten den Ausgrabungsort sorgfältig räumen, bevor sie mit der eigentlichen Untersuchung beginnen konnten.
The archaeologists had to carefully clear the excavation site before they could begin the actual investigation.
Temporal clause with 'bevor', past tense perfect.
Es bedarf einer erheblichen Anstrengung, um die tief verwurzelten Vorurteile aus dem kollektiven Bewusstsein zu räumen.
It requires considerable effort to clear deep-rooted prejudices from the collective consciousness.
Abstract concepts, impersonal construction 'es bedarf'.
Die Entwickler planen, das alte Industriegebiet zu räumen und dort ein modernes Wohnviertel zu errichten.
The developers plan to clear out the old industrial area and build a modern residential district there.
Future planning, compound infinitive clause.
Die Notwendigkeit, die überfüllten Lager zu räumen, wurde durch die steigenden Flüchtlingszahlen offensichtlich.
The necessity to clear out the overcrowded camps became obvious due to the rising refugee numbers.
Abstract noun 'Notwendigkeit', passive construction.
Er versuchte vergeblich, die Schatten der Vergangenheit aus seinem Gemüt zu räumen.
He tried in vain to clear the shadows of the past from his mind.
Figurative use, 'Gemüt' (mind/soul).
Die geplante Sanierung des Altstadtkerns erforderte die Umsiedlung zahlreicher Bewohner und die Räumung von Gewerbeflächen.
The planned renovation of the old town center required the relocation of numerous residents and the clearing of commercial spaces.
Complex noun phrases, abstract concepts.
Angesichts der drohenden Flut wurden die Anwohner aufgefordert, ihre Häuser umgehend zu räumen und sich in Sicherheit zu bringen.
In view of the threatening flood, residents were urged to immediately vacate their homes and seek safety.
Prepositional phrase 'Angesichts der', passive voice with 'wurden aufgefordert'.
Die Aufgabe, die jahrzehntelang angesammelten Archive zu räumen, erwies sich als monumentale Herausforderung.
The task of clearing out the archives accumulated over decades proved to be a monumental challenge.
Participial adjective 'angesammelten', noun phrase 'monumentale Herausforderung'.
Um eine Eskalation der Lage zu verhindern, wurde die Polizei ermächtigt, die friedlichen, aber blockierenden Demonstranten zu räumen.
To prevent an escalation of the situation, the police were authorized to clear the peaceful but blocking protesters.
Infinitive clause 'um...zu verhindern', passive voice with 'wurden ermächtigt'.
Die künstlerische Intention des Werkes lag darin, den Betrachter dazu zu bewegen, seine eigenen Vorurteile zu räumen.
The artistic intention of the work was to move the viewer to clear their own prejudices.
Abstract noun 'Intention', infinitive clause with 'dazu zu bewegen'.
Die schrittweise Räumung der besetzten Gebiete wurde unter internationaler Aufsicht durchgeführt.
The gradual clearing of the occupied territories was carried out under international supervision.
Noun form 'Räumung', passive voice with 'wurde durchgeführt'.
Es galt, die festgefahrenen Verhandlungen durch eine neue Perspektive zu räumen, um einen Durchbruch zu erzielen.
It was necessary to clear the stalled negotiations with a new perspective to achieve a breakthrough.
Impersonal construction 'es galt', abstract noun 'Durchbruch'.
Die emotionale Last, die er seit Jahren mit sich trug, musste er endlich aus seinem Herzen räumen.
He finally had to clear the emotional burden he had carried for years from his heart.
Figurative use, emotional context.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— To clear the table (of dishes, etc.).
Nach dem Essen ist es deine Aufgabe, den Tisch abzuräumen.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
'Räumen' is the general term for clearing or vacating. 'Aufräumen' specifically means to tidy up or clean up. While related, 'aufräumen' implies bringing order, whereas 'räumen' can simply mean removing things.
'Entfernen' means to remove, often something more permanent or difficult to get rid of, like a stain or a person from a restricted area. 'Räumen' is more about clearing a space.
'Leeren' means to empty, typically a container like a bin or a bottle. 'Räumen' is broader, involving clearing a whole area or space.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To turn a blind eye, to overlook something.
Der Lehrer musste bei einigen Fehlern ein Auge zudrücken, aber er konnte nicht alles durchgehen lassen.
Informal— To make things very difficult for someone, to give someone a hard time.
Wenn du deine Hausaufgaben nicht machst, mache ich dir die Hölle heiß!
Informal— To annoy someone, to get on someone's nerves.
Hör auf damit, du gehst mir auf den Keks!
Informal— To postpone something, to put something off.
Wir können diese Entscheidung nicht länger auf die lange Bank schieben.
Neutral— To avoid something or someone.
Er versucht, schwierigen Gesprächen aus dem Weg zu gehen.
Neutral— To scold someone severely, to reprimand someone harshly.
Der Chef hat ihn wegen seiner Verspätung zur Schnecke gemacht.
Informal— The last straw, the final insult or problem that makes a situation unbearable.
Nachdem er auch noch die Rechnung vergaß, war das der letzte Tropfen, der das Fass zum Überlaufen brachte.
Neutral— To tell someone a tall tale, to fool someone.
Glaub ihm nicht, er will dir nur einen Bären aufbinden.
Informal— To take an interest in someone or something, to keep an eye on someone/something.
Ich habe ein Auge auf dieses neue Restaurant geworfen.
Neutral— To get something into good order, to spruce something up.
Wir müssen das Auto auf Vordermann bringen, bevor wir in den Urlaub fahren.
NeutralLeicht verwechselbar
Both verbs deal with tidiness and clearing.
'Räumen' means to clear out or vacate a space. 'Aufräumen' specifically means to tidy up and put things in their proper place. You 'räumen' a room to move out, but you 'räumen auf' to make it tidy.
Ich muss mein Zimmer <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>aufräumen</mark>. (I need to tidy my room.) vs. Ich muss die alten Möbel aus dem Zimmer <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>räumen</mark>. (I need to clear the old furniture out of the room.)
Both involve taking something away.
'Räumen' is about clearing an area or making space. 'Entfernen' is a more general term for removing something, which might not necessarily be about creating space but simply taking it away. For example, you 'entfernen' a stain, but you 'räumen' a table.
Man muss den Müll <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>entfernen</mark>. (The trash must be removed.) vs. Man muss den Tisch <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>räumen</mark>. (The table must be cleared.)
Both relate to making something empty.
'Leeren' specifically means to empty a container (like a bin, a bottle, or a tank). 'Räumen' is about clearing a space of objects or people, not necessarily emptying a container's contents in the same way.
Ich muss den Papierkorb <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>leeren</mark>. (I need to empty the wastebasket.) vs. Ich muss das Büro <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>räumen</mark>. (I need to clear out the office.)
Both involve putting things aside or clearing them from view.
'Wegräumen' means to clear something away and put it in its designated place. It's a form of tidying. 'Räumen' is broader, meaning to clear a space or vacate, which might involve putting things away but also implies removal or making the area empty.
Bitte <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>räum</mark> die Bücher <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>weg</mark>. (Please put the books away.) vs. Wir müssen den ganzen Raum <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>räumen</mark>. (We need to clear the entire room.)
Both relate to creating an empty space.
'Freimachen' means to make something free, often a specific spot or pathway, so it can be used or passed. 'Räumen' is the action of clearing that space. You 'räumen' to 'freimachen'.
Bitte <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>räumen</mark> Sie den Tisch, um ihn <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>freizumachen</mark>. (Please clear the table to make it free/available.)
Satzmuster
Subject + räumen/aufräumen + Object (optional)
Ich räume auf.
Imperative: Räum(e)! / Räumt!
Räum dein Zimmer!
Subject + räumen + Object + Location
Wir räumen die Kisten in den Keller.
Subject + haben + ... + geräumt (Perfect tense)
Sie hat den Tisch abgeräumt.
Subordinate clause: ... weil Subject + Object + räumen.
Ich helfe, weil ich den Tisch räumen muss.
Infinitive clause with 'zu': Es ist wichtig, ... aufzuräumen.
Es ist wichtig, dein Zimmer aufzuräumen.
Passive voice: Object + werden + ... + geräumt.
Der Parkplatz wird geräumt.
Modal verb + ... + räumen (infinitive at end)
Wir können die Wohnung nicht ohne Weiteres räumen.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
High
-
Using 'räumen' when 'aufräumen' is intended.
→
Ich räume mein Zimmer auf.
'Räumen' is general clearing/vacating. 'Aufräumen' is specifically tidying up. For example, saying 'Ich räume mein Zimmer' might imply emptying it, whereas 'Ich räume mein Zimmer auf' clearly means tidying it.
-
Incorrect word order with separable verbs.
→
Ich räume die Spielsachen weg.
The prefix 'weg' in 'wegräumen' should go to the end of the sentence in a main clause. Incorrect: 'Ich wegräume die Spielsachen.'
-
Incorrect case for direct object.
→
Ich räume den Tisch ab.
'Räumen' and its derivatives often take a direct object in the accusative case. Incorrect: 'Ich räume dem Tisch ab.'
-
Confusing 'räumen' with 'leeren'.
→
Ich leere den Mülleimer.
'Leeren' means to empty a container. 'Räumen' means to clear a space. You 'leeren' a bin, but you 'räumen' a room.
-
Using 'räumen' for removing stains.
→
Man muss den Fleck entfernen.
'Räumen' is for clearing spaces, not for removing specific marks or stains. 'Entfernen' is the appropriate verb for that.
Tipps
Räumen vs. Aufräumen
Remember the key difference: 'räumen' is about clearing/vacating, while 'aufräumen' is about tidying up and bringing order. Use 'aufräumen' for your room, and 'räumen' for moving out or clearing a path.
Active Usage
Actively try to use 'räumen' and its derivatives in your own sentences. Describe your chores, talk about moving, or explain how you're making space for something new.
Related Verbs
Learn related verbs like 'wegräumen' (to put away), 'leeren' (to empty), and 'abräumen' (to clear a table) to expand your vocabulary for different types of clearing actions.
Separable Prefixes
Be mindful of separable verbs like 'aufräumen'. The prefix 'auf-' usually goes to the end of the sentence in main clauses. Practice this structure to avoid common errors.
Pronunciation Focus
Practice the 'äu' sound, which is like 'oi' in 'boy'. Ensure the 'r' sound is appropriate for German pronunciation. Listening to native speakers is highly beneficial.
Synonym Exploration
Explore synonyms like 'entfernen' (to remove) and 'freimachen' (to make free) to understand the subtle differences in meaning and usage.
Cultural Relevance
Understand that tidiness is often valued in German culture. 'Aufräumen' is a common instruction for children, reflecting this societal emphasis on order.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid confusing 'räumen' with verbs like 'leeren' or 'entfernen'. Also, ensure correct verb conjugation and word order, especially with separable verbs and modal verbs.
Real-Life Scenarios
Imagine scenarios like moving house, cleaning your room, or preparing for guests. How would you use 'räumen' or 'aufräumen' in these situations? This helps solidify understanding.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Imagine yourself trying to 'ROW' (sounds like 'räumen') your boat out of a crowded harbor. You need to 'räumen' the space to get going.
Visuelle Assoziation
Picture a busy room that is being cleared out. Boxes are being moved, furniture is being pushed aside, and people are leaving. The verb 'räumen' is the action happening in that scene.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to describe your morning routine using 'räumen' or 'aufräumen'. For example, 'After waking up, I first räumen my bed and then I aufräumen the kitchen after breakfast.'
Wortherkunft
The word 'räumen' originates from Middle High German 'rūmen' and Old High German 'rūmēn'. It is related to the concept of 'space' or 'room'. The root is Proto-Germanic *rōmōną, meaning 'to make room, to clear'.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To make space, to clear, to widen.
GermanicKultureller Kontext
When discussing 'räumen' in the context of eviction or displacement, it's important to be sensitive to the potentially negative connotations and emotional impact on individuals.
While English has many words for clearing (clear, tidy, vacate, remove), German often uses specific verbs or compound verbs like 'aufräumen' and 'wegräumen' to convey nuances of tidiness and putting things away.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Household chores
- Mein Zimmer aufräumen
- Den Tisch abräumen
- Die Küche räumen
Moving house
- Die Wohnung räumen
- Die Möbel aus dem Keller räumen
- Kisten wegräumen
Public spaces
- Den Schnee räumen
- Den Parkplatz frei räumen
- Den Weg räumen
Organizing
- Sachen wegräumen
- Platz schaffen
- Den Schreibtisch aufräumen
Vacating a place
- Das Zimmer räumen
- Das Gebäude räumen
- Den Platz räumen
Gesprächseinstiege
"What chores do you usually have to do at home?"
"Do you find it easy to keep your room tidy?"
"When was the last time you helped someone move?"
"What's the most difficult thing to clear out of a room?"
"How do you feel when a space is cluttered versus when it's tidy?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Describe a time you had to 'räumen' a significant amount of items from a place. What was it, and how did you feel about it?
Write about the importance of 'Aufräumen' in your life. How does tidiness affect your mood or productivity?
Imagine you are moving out of your current home. Write a short story about the process of 'die Wohnung räumen'.
What are your strategies for dealing with clutter? How do you 'räumen' your space effectively?
Discuss the difference between 'räumen' and 'aufräumen' in German and how you might use each verb in a sentence about your daily life.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 Fragen'Räumen' generally means to clear out, vacate, or make space. 'Aufräumen' is a separable verb that specifically means to tidy up or clean up a room or area. For example, you 'räumen' your apartment when you move out, but you 'räumen auf' your room to make it neat.
'Räumen' is used for clearing spaces, tables, or vacating places. 'Entfernen' is a more general term for removing something, like a stain or an unwanted object, and doesn't necessarily imply creating space.
Yes, 'räumen' can be used figuratively, for example, to clear one's mind ('Gedanken räumen') or to dismiss someone from a position. However, for A2 learners, focusing on the literal meanings is most important.
The past participle of 'räumen' is 'geräumt'. It is used with the auxiliary verb 'haben' in the perfect tense, e.g., 'Ich habe mein Zimmer geräumt.'
The most common way to say 'clear the table' is 'den Tisch abräumen'. You can also say 'den Tisch räumen', but 'abräumen' is more specific to clearing dishes and cutlery after a meal.
'Die Wohnung räumen' means to vacate the apartment, which usually implies moving out by a certain date, often at the end of a rental contract.
The base verb 'räumen' is not separable. However, its common derivatives like 'aufräumen', 'wegräumen', and 'leerräumen' are separable verbs.
Opposites depend on context. If 'räumen' means to clear space, then 'füllen' (to fill) or 'belegen' (to occupy) can be opposites. If it means to put away, then 'einräumen' (to put in) or 'hinstellen' (to place) can be considered opposites.
'Räumen' is often used with 'aus' to indicate what is being removed from where, e.g., 'die Sachen aus dem Zimmer räumen' (to clear the things out of the room).
Practice by describing your daily chores, like tidying your room ('aufräumen') or clearing the table ('den Tisch abräumen'). Also, try to use it in sentences about moving or preparing a space.
Teste dich selbst 10 Fragen
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The German verb 'räumen' is essential for describing actions related to clearing space, tidying up, or vacating a location. Its most common related form is 'aufräumen' (to tidy up). Pay attention to the context to understand whether it means general clearing or specific tidying.
- Räumen: to clear, make space, tidy up, vacate.
- Common uses: clearing tables, tidying rooms, moving out.
- Often used with 'aufräumen' (to tidy up).
- Requires making space or removing items/people.
Räumen vs. Aufräumen
Remember the key difference: 'räumen' is about clearing/vacating, while 'aufräumen' is about tidying up and bringing order. Use 'aufräumen' for your room, and 'räumen' for moving out or clearing a path.
Context is Key
The meaning of 'räumen' can vary greatly. Pay close attention to the surrounding words and the situation to understand if it means to clear dishes, tidy a room, move out, or remove snow.
Active Usage
Actively try to use 'räumen' and its derivatives in your own sentences. Describe your chores, talk about moving, or explain how you're making space for something new.
Related Verbs
Learn related verbs like 'wegräumen' (to put away), 'leeren' (to empty), and 'abräumen' (to clear a table) to expand your vocabulary for different types of clearing actions.
Beispiel
Die Arbeiter räumten die Straße vom Schnee.
Verwandte Inhalte
Verwandte Redewendungen
Mehr home Wörter
abdecken
B1Den Tisch nach dem Essen abräumen; etwas zum Schutz mit einer Decke oder Plane versehen.
abdichten
B1To make something waterproof or airtight.
Abfalleimer
B1Ein Behälter zum Sammeln von Abfällen im Haushalt oder an öffentlichen Plätzen.
Abfluss
B1drain
abgenutzt
B1Durch häufigen Gebrauch in seinem Wert oder seiner Funktion gemindert.
abhängen
B1Etwas von einer Stelle entfernen, an der es aufgehängt ist.
Ablesen
B1Das Erfassen von Messwerten oder das Vorlesen von einem Blatt.
abreißen
B1Etwas durch Reißen entfernen oder ein Bauwerk vollständig beseitigen. Auch für das plötzliche Ende einer Verbindung verwendet.
abstauben
B1Den Staub von einer Oberfläche entfernen.
Abstellraum
B1Storage room, a room used for storing items.
