At the A1 level, you only need to know 'die Kondition' as it relates to very basic sports and health. Think of it as 'fitness'. You might use it in a simple sentence like 'Ich habe eine gute Kondition' (I am fit) or 'Ich habe keine Kondition' (I am not fit). At this stage, you don't need to worry about the business meaning (contract terms). Just focus on the idea that if you run and you aren't tired, your 'Kondition' is good. It's a feminine noun, so we use 'die'. You can remember it because it looks like the English word 'condition', but remember it's only about your body's energy for sports. If you can walk up a hill without stopping, you have 'Kondition'. It is a very useful word when you are talking about your hobbies like soccer, swimming, or dancing. You will often hear it at the gym or in a sports class. Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just use it with the verb 'haben' (to have). Example: 'Haben Sie eine gute Kondition?' (Do you have good stamina?). This is a great way to start a conversation with a workout partner.
At the A2 level, you should begin to distinguish between 'die Kondition' (singular) for physical stamina and 'die Konditionen' (plural) for terms and conditions. You will use it to describe your progress in sports. For example, 'Ich trainiere viel, um meine Kondition zu verbessern.' (I train a lot to improve my stamina). You should also be aware that in a business context, like when opening a bank account, you might see the word 'Konditionen'. This refers to the prices and rules of the service. You are moving beyond simple possession ('Ich habe...') and starting to use verbs like 'verbessern' (to improve) or 'aufbauen' (to build up). It's also important at this level to avoid the 'false friend' trap: don't use 'Kondition' to describe the state of a used car or a house; for that, you must use 'Zustand'. A2 learners should also be comfortable using the word in the accusative case, which is easy because 'die Kondition' stays the same. 'Ich brauche eine bessere Kondition.' (I need better stamina).
At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'die Kondition' in more complex sentence structures, such as with subordinate clauses. You might say, 'Obwohl ich jeden Tag jogge, ist meine Kondition noch nicht perfekt.' (Although I jog every day, my stamina is not yet perfect). You should also be very comfortable with the plural 'die Konditionen' in professional or commercial settings. You might discuss 'die Konditionen eines Mietvertrags' (the terms of a rental agreement) or 'die Konditionen eines Kredits' (the terms of a loan). At B1, you should also know related words like 'konditionell', which is the adjective form. For example, 'Das war eine konditionell anspruchsvolle Wanderung' (That was a physically demanding hike). You are also expected to understand the word in more varied contexts, such as in news reports about athletes or in brochures for insurance companies. You should be able to explain the difference between 'Kondition' and 'Ausdauer'—where 'Kondition' is the broader physical state and 'Ausdauer' is specifically endurance.
At the B2 level, your usage of 'die Kondition' should be precise and nuanced. You should understand the concept of 'Konditionstraining' as a specific pedagogical approach in sports science. You'll be able to discuss the physiological aspects of stamina, perhaps using it in a debate about health or professional sports. In business, you should be able to negotiate 'Konditionen' effectively. You might say, 'Wir müssen über die Konditionen verhandeln, bevor wir den Vertrag unterschreiben.' (We need to negotiate the terms before we sign the contract). You should also recognize the word in more abstract or academic settings, such as 'die menschliche Kondition' (the human condition), although 'menschliches Dasein' is more common in German. Your vocabulary should also include compound words like 'Konditionsfaktor' or 'Konditionsschwäche'. At this level, you are expected to navigate the 'false friend' issues perfectly, never confusing 'Kondition' with 'Zustand' or 'Bedingung' in formal writing.
At the C1 level, you use 'die Kondition' with stylistic confidence. You understand its role in sports physiology and can discuss it using advanced terminology. You might use the word in an essay about the societal pressure to maintain high physical 'Kondition'. In a professional legal or business environment, you handle 'Konditionen' as a technical term, discussing 'Zahlungskonditionen' (payment terms) or 'Lieferkonditionen' (delivery terms) without hesitation. You are also aware of the psychological meaning of 'Konditionierung' (conditioning), as in Pavlovian response, which is related but distinct. You can use the word metaphorically, perhaps referring to the 'Kondition' of a political party or an economy, meaning its underlying strength and readiness for a challenge. Your sentence structures will be sophisticated, integrating the word into passive constructions or complex participial phrases. You understand the subtle differences between 'Konditionen', 'Bestimmungen', and 'Klauseln' in a legal document.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'die Kondition'. You can appreciate and use the word in literary or highly technical contexts. You might encounter it in philosophical texts discussing the 'Condition humaine', where the German translation often uses 'die Situation des Menschen' or 'die conditio humana' directly from Latin, but 'Kondition' can appear in modern interpretations. You can engage in high-level negotiations where 'Konditionen' are the central focus, using the word to navigate subtle nuances of power and agreement. You understand the historical development of the word from its Latin roots and how its meaning has branched out into sports and commerce differently than in other Germanic or Romance languages. You can use the word in wordplay or irony, and you have a perfect sense of which synonym (Ausdauer, Verfassung, Zustand, Bedingung) is the most rhetorically effective in any given sentence. Your mastery is such that you can explain these nuances to others, including the specific 'sports-science' vs. 'everyday' definitions.

die Kondition en 30 segundos

  • Kondition means physical stamina and endurance in a sporting context.
  • The plural Konditionen refers to the terms and conditions of a contract.
  • It is a feminine noun: die Kondition, plural die Konditionen.
  • Do not use it for the state of an object; use 'Zustand' instead.

The German word die Kondition is a multifaceted noun that primarily addresses two distinct conceptual areas: physical stamina and contractual terms. For a learner at the A2 level, the most immediate and frequent encounter with this word will be in the context of sports, health, and physical fitness. Unlike the English word 'condition', which often refers to the general state or quality of something (like the condition of a used car), the German Kondition specifically targets endurance and the capacity for sustained physical effort. If you are running a marathon and you feel like your lungs are burning but you can keep going, you have good Kondition. It is the grit, the stamina, and the aerobic capacity that allows an athlete to perform over time without succumbing to immediate fatigue.

Physical Fitness / Stamina
In this sense, it is almost synonymous with 'Ausdauer' (endurance). It describes the physiological state of being well-trained. When Germans say 'Ich habe keine Kondition,' they don't mean they are sick; they mean they are out of shape and get out of breath easily when climbing stairs or jogging.
Contractual Terms (Plural)
When used in the plural form, die Konditionen, the meaning shifts entirely toward the business and legal realm. It refers to the specific terms, requirements, or stipulations of an agreement, such as a bank loan, a rental contract, or a job offer. For example, 'Die Konditionen des Kredits sind sehr attraktiv' means the interest rates and repayment terms are favorable.

Understanding the distinction between these two meanings is crucial for avoiding confusion. While the singular form almost always refers to fitness, the plural form is the standard way to discuss business deals. This duality makes it a 'high-yield' word because it bridges the gap between daily lifestyle talk and professional communication. In a gym, you are working on your Kondition; in a boardroom, you are negotiating Konditionen.

"Um den Mount Everest zu besteigen, braucht man eine außergewöhnlich gute Kondition und viel mentale Stärke."

— Translation: To climb Mount Everest, one needs exceptionally good physical shape and a lot of mental strength.

Furthermore, the word is deeply embedded in the German cultural appreciation for 'Vereinssport' (club sports) and 'Wandern' (hiking). Because Germans value active lifestyles, discussing one's Kondition is a common topic of small talk. It is not seen as overly personal or medical; rather, it is a reflection of one's dedication to a healthy routine. If you join a local football club, the coach will likely spend the first few weeks of the season focusing entirely on 'Konditionstraining' to ensure the players can last the full 90 minutes of a match.

In summary, die Kondition is your physical engine's capacity. It is something you 'have' (haben), 'build up' (aufbauen), or 'lose' (verlieren). It represents the bridge between mere health and active performance. Whether you are discussing your morning run or reviewing a new mobile phone contract, this word provides the necessary framework to describe the 'how' and 'under what circumstances' of a situation.

Using die Kondition correctly requires paying close attention to the verbs that accompany it. Since it functions as a resource or a quality, we treat it similarly to how we treat 'patience' or 'energy'. You can possess it, increase it, or find it lacking. Below, we explore the grammatical patterns and common combinations that will make your German sound natural and precise.

Verbs of Possession and State
The most basic way to use the word is with haben (to have). Example: 'Ich habe eine gute Kondition.' You can also use sein with an adjective: 'Meine Kondition ist momentan nicht so gut.' This describes your current level of fitness without focusing on the process of change.
Verbs of Action and Improvement
When you are working on your fitness, you use verbs like aufbauen (to build up), verbessern (to improve), or trainieren (to train). Example: 'Ich gehe jeden zweiten Tag laufen, um meine Kondition aufzubauen.' This implies a goal-oriented effort.

"Nach der langen Winterpause muss ich erst einmal wieder meine Kondition verbessern, bevor ich ein Fußballspiel bestreiten kann."

— Translation: After the long winter break, I first have to improve my stamina before I can play a football match.

In the plural sense (Konditionen), the verbs change to reflect negotiation and agreement. You handeln ... aus (negotiate), akzeptieren (accept), or festlegen (determine/set). For instance: 'Wir müssen die Konditionen für das neue Projekt noch festlegen.' Here, the word acts as a collective term for all the 'small print' of an agreement.

"Die Bank bietet uns sehr faire Konditionen für die Finanzierung unseres Hauses an."

— Translation: The bank is offering us very fair terms for the financing of our house.

One interesting idiomatic use involves 'Kondition' as a synonym for 'Voraussetzung' (prerequisite) in higher-level academic contexts, though this is less common at the A2 level. For now, focus on the 'stamina' vs. 'terms' distinction. Remember that if you are talking about a person's physical state of health (e.g., being sick or healthy), the word Gesundheitszustand is more appropriate. Kondition is strictly about the 'engine's power' and endurance capacity.

If you live in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, you will hear die Kondition in several specific environments. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word even when people speak quickly or use colloquialisms.

At the Fitness Studio (Gym)
This is the primary home of the word. Personal trainers will talk about 'Konditionstraining'—which usually involves cardio machines like treadmills, rowers, or cross-trainers. You might hear someone panting after a set of sprints and saying, 'Meine Kondition ist im Keller!' (My stamina is in the basement/non-existent!).
Sports Commentary
When watching a Bundesliga match, commentators often analyze the players' performance in the final twenty minutes. If a team is losing energy, the commentator might say: 'Den Spielern geht die Kondition aus' (The players are running out of stamina). It is a key metric for evaluating professional athletes.
In the Business World
When you go to a bank to open an account or take out a loan, the consultant will hand you a sheet titled 'Unsere Konditionen'. This document lists interest rates, monthly fees, and withdrawal limits. Similarly, in B2B (business-to-business) sales, a salesperson might say, 'Wir können Ihnen spezielle Konditionen anbieten,' meaning they can offer a discount or better payment terms.

"Hast du die neuen Konditionen in deinem Arbeitsvertrag schon gelesen?"

— Translation: Have you already read the new terms in your employment contract?

You might also hear it in the context of mountain hiking, a very popular pastime in German-speaking countries. Before a group hike, someone might ask: 'Ist die Wanderung schwer? Reicht meine Kondition dafür aus?' (Is the hike difficult? Is my stamina sufficient for it?). This is a very practical, everyday use of the word. It helps people gauge the difficulty of an activity relative to their own physical capabilities.

Finally, you might encounter it in advertisements. Fitness apps often promise to 'Deine Kondition in 30 Tagen verdoppeln' (double your stamina in 30 days). In these contexts, the word is used as a selling point, representing the ideal of a healthy, capable body. By associating 'Kondition' with success and well-being, advertisers tap into the cultural value placed on physical discipline.

Because die Kondition looks and sounds so much like the English word 'condition', it is a prime candidate for 'false friend' errors. English speakers often over-apply the word to situations where it simply doesn't fit in German. Let's look at the most frequent pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Describing the State of Objects
In English, you can say 'The car is in excellent condition.' In German, you cannot say 'Das Auto ist in ausgezeichneter Kondition.' This sounds like the car has been running on a treadmill. Instead, use Zustand: 'Das Auto ist in ausgezeichnetem Zustand.'
Mistake 2: Confusing Health with Fitness
If someone is ill, you wouldn't say their 'Kondition' is bad unless you are specifically talking about their athletic endurance. If they have the flu, their Gesundheitszustand (health state) or Verfassung (general state/constitution) is poor.

Wrong: "Das Haus ist in einer schlechten Kondition."

Correct: "Das Haus ist in einem schlechten Zustand."

Another common error is using the singular 'Kondition' when you mean 'terms and conditions'. While 'condition' in the singular can sometimes mean a requirement in English (e.g., 'on one condition'), in German, this is usually Bedingung. If you are talking about the rules of a contract, you almost always need the plural Konditionen.

Lastly, learners often forget that 'Kondition' is a non-count noun when referring to fitness, but a count noun when referring to terms (though usually plural). You don't have 'three fitness conditions'; you just have 'good' or 'bad' stamina. But you can have 'many contract conditions' (viele Konditionen). Keeping this grammatical distinction in mind will help you navigate different contexts smoothly.

To truly master die Kondition, you need to know the words that live in its neighborhood. German is famous for having very specific words for concepts that English might lump together. By learning these alternatives, you can express yourself with much greater precision.

Ausdauer vs. Kondition
Ausdauer is often used interchangeably with Kondition, but there is a nuance. Ausdauer is specifically 'endurance'—the ability to keep going mentally and physically. Kondition is broader and often includes strength and overall physical preparedness for a sport. In a marathon, you need Ausdauer; to be a well-rounded athlete, you need Kondition.
Zustand vs. Kondition
As mentioned in the 'Common Mistakes' section, Zustand is for the status or quality of objects or systems. 'Der Zustand der Straßen ist schlecht' (The condition of the roads is poor). Never use Kondition for inanimate objects.
Bedingung vs. Konditionen
A Bedingung is a single requirement or a prerequisite. 'Eine Bedingung für den Job ist Fließend Deutsch' (A condition/requirement for the job is fluent German). Konditionen (plural) refers to the whole package of terms in a contract.

"Während Fitness oft das allgemeine Wohlbefinden beschreibt, meint Kondition eher die sportliche Leistungsfähigkeit."

— Translation: While fitness often describes general well-being, 'Kondition' refers more to athletic performance capacity.

Another useful word is Form. If an athlete is in 'Topform', they are at their absolute peak. This is slightly different from Kondition because Form can fluctuate from day to day, while Kondition is a more stable level of training built up over weeks and months.

By distinguishing between these words, you avoid the 'English-speaker's accent' in your logic. You start thinking like a native speaker who sees the difference between the endurance of a runner (Ausdauer), the physical readiness of a boxer (Kondition), and the terms of their sponsorship deal (Konditionen).

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

In English, 'condition' became a very broad word for any state of being. In German, it split: 'Zustand' took the 'state' meaning, while 'Kondition' narrowed down to 'physical stamina' and 'contract terms'.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /kɔndiˈt͡si̯oːn/
US /kɔndiˈt͡si̯oːn/
Last syllable (tion).
Rima con
Station Nation Aktion Reaktion Option Produktion Information Tradition
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing 'tion' like the English 'shun'. In German, it is always 'tsion'.
  • Stressing the first syllable. It must be at the end.
  • Mispronouncing the 'd' as a 't'.
  • Making the first 'o' too long.
  • Forgetting the plural ending 'en' in business contexts.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

Easy to recognize because of the English cognate, but requires context to distinguish meanings.

Escritura 3/5

Spelling is straightforward, but using the correct plural/singular meaning is tricky.

Expresión oral 3/5

Pronunciation of '-tion' and correct stress are the main challenges.

Escucha 2/5

Usually clear in sports and business contexts.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

haben gut schlecht Sport Vertrag

Aprende después

Ausdauer Zustand Bedingung verhandeln verbessern

Avanzado

Konditionierung Leistungsdiagnostik Bestimmungen Paragraf

Gramática que debes saber

Feminine Nouns in -tion

Words ending in -tion are always feminine (die Kondition, die Station).

Compound Nouns with 's'

Kondition + s + Training = Konditionstraining.

Plural of -tion Nouns

The plural is always -en (die Konditionen).

Genitive case for feminine nouns

Wegen der guten Kondition (Because of the good stamina).

Accusative case for feminine nouns

Ich habe eine gute Kondition (I have good stamina).

Ejemplos por nivel

1

Ich habe eine gute Kondition.

I have good stamina.

Subject + verb + adjective + noun.

2

Hast du Kondition?

Do you have stamina?

Question with 'haben'.

3

Meine Kondition ist schlecht.

My stamina is bad.

Possessive pronoun + noun + sein + adjective.

4

Wir machen Konditionstraining.

We are doing stamina training.

Compound noun: Kondition + s + Training.

5

Laufen ist gut für die Kondition.

Running is good for the stamina.

Preposition 'für' takes the accusative.

6

Er hat keine Kondition.

He has no stamina.

Negation with 'keine'.

7

Ich brauche mehr Kondition.

I need more stamina.

Verb 'brauchen' + comparative 'mehr'.

8

Schwimmen verbessert die Kondition.

Swimming improves the stamina.

Simple present tense.

1

Ich trainiere für eine bessere Kondition.

I train for better stamina.

Prepositional phrase with 'für'.

2

Die Konditionen des Vertrags sind fair.

The terms of the contract are fair.

Plural form 'Konditionen' meaning terms.

3

Nach dem Urlaub war meine Kondition weg.

After the vacation, my stamina was gone.

Past tense 'war'.

4

Wie sind die Konditionen bei dieser Bank?

What are the terms at this bank?

Interrogative 'Wie' with plural noun.

5

Ich muss meine Kondition aufbauen.

I must build up my stamina.

Modal verb 'muss' + separable verb 'aufbauen'.

6

Fußballspieler brauchen viel Kondition.

Soccer players need a lot of stamina.

Plural subject + plural verb.

7

Die Konditionen für das Fitnessstudio sind gut.

The terms for the gym are good.

Prepositional phrase 'für das'.

8

Ohne Kondition kann man nicht wandern.

Without stamina, one cannot hike.

Preposition 'ohne' + accusative.

1

Um einen Marathon zu laufen, ist eine exzellente Kondition erforderlich.

To run a marathon, excellent stamina is required.

Infinitive construction with 'um...zu'.

2

Wir haben die Konditionen für die Lieferung besprochen.

We discussed the terms for the delivery.

Perfect tense 'haben besprochen'.

3

Durch regelmäßiges Training steigt die Kondition stetig an.

Through regular training, stamina increases steadily.

Preposition 'durch' + accusative.

4

Können Sie mir die Konditionen schriftlich geben?

Can you give me the terms in writing?

Polite request with 'können'.

5

Seine Kondition hat sich in den letzten Wochen stark verbessert.

His stamina has improved greatly in the last few weeks.

Reflexive verb 'sich verbessern'.

6

Die Konditionen für den Kredit waren leider zu teuer.

The terms for the loan were unfortunately too expensive.

Adjective 'teuer' describing 'Konditionen'.

7

Trotz seiner guten Kondition war er am Ende erschöpft.

Despite his good stamina, he was exhausted at the end.

Preposition 'trotz' + genitive.

8

Welche Konditionen bietet die Versicherung an?

Which terms does the insurance offer?

Interrogative 'Welche' + plural noun.

1

Die Konditionen des Arbeitsvertrags müssen noch ausgehandelt werden.

The terms of the employment contract still need to be negotiated.

Passive voice with 'müssen...werden'.

2

Eine mangelnde Kondition kann zu Verletzungen führen.

Lacking stamina can lead to injuries.

Participial adjective 'mangelnd'.

3

Die finanziellen Konditionen sind für uns momentan nicht tragbar.

The financial terms are currently not sustainable for us.

Adjective 'tragbar' meaning sustainable/bearable.

4

Er verfügt über eine beeindruckende physische Kondition.

He possesses impressive physical stamina.

Verb 'verfügen über' + accusative.

5

Wir sollten die Konditionen der Konkurrenz vergleichen.

We should compare the terms of the competition.

Modal verb 'sollten' + infinitive.

6

Konditionelle Defizite waren der Grund für die Niederlage.

Deficits in stamina were the reason for the defeat.

Adjective 'konditionell'.

7

Die Konditionen für die Rückgabe der Ware sind im Kleingedruckten.

The terms for the return of the goods are in the fine print.

Noun 'Kleingedrucktes' (fine print).

8

Man darf die Konditionen nicht einfach so akzeptieren.

One must not simply accept the terms just like that.

Modal verb 'darf' + negation.

1

Die Optimierung der Kondition erfordert ein hohes Maß an Disziplin.

The optimization of stamina requires a high degree of discipline.

Genitive construction 'der Kondition'.

2

Sämtliche Konditionen unterliegen der geltenden Rechtslage.

All terms are subject to the current legal situation.

Verb 'unterliegen' + dative.

3

Die Kondition ist ein wesentlicher Bestandteil der sportlichen Leistungsfähigkeit.

Stamina is an essential component of athletic performance capacity.

Adjective 'wesentlich' (essential).

4

Wir fordern eine Nachbesserung der vertraglichen Konditionen.

We demand an improvement of the contractual terms.

Noun 'Nachbesserung' (reworking/improvement).

5

Trotz intensiver Vorbereitung ließ seine Kondition im entscheidenden Moment nach.

Despite intensive preparation, his stamina faded at the decisive moment.

Separable verb 'nachlassen' (to fade/weaken).

6

Die Bank hat die Konditionen für Neukunden verschlechtert.

The bank has worsened the terms for new customers.

Transitive verb 'verschlechtern'.

7

Es gilt, die Kondition durch spezifische Reize zu stimulieren.

It is necessary to stimulate stamina through specific stimuli.

Expression 'Es gilt, ... zu'.

8

Die Konditionen sind an bestimmte Voraussetzungen geknüpft.

The terms are tied to certain prerequisites.

Passive 'geknüpft sein an'.

1

Die physiologische Grundlage der Kondition ist die aerobe Kapazität.

The physiological basis of stamina is aerobic capacity.

Technical scientific terminology.

2

Die Konditionen der Globalisierung werfen ethische Fragen auf.

The conditions of globalization raise ethical questions.

Metaphorical use of 'Konditionen'.

3

Eine exzellente Kondition fungiert als Puffer gegen physischen Stress.

Excellent stamina functions as a buffer against physical stress.

Verb 'fungieren als' (to function as).

4

Die vertraglichen Konditionen wurden bis ins kleinste Detail seziert.

The contractual terms were dissected down to the smallest detail.

Metaphorical verb 'sezieren' (to dissect).

5

Ohne eine solide Kondition ist das Erreichen von Höchstleistungen illusorisch.

Without solid stamina, achieving peak performance is illusory.

Adjective 'illusorisch'.

6

Die Konditionen des Marktes diktieren die Preise.

The conditions of the market dictate the prices.

Verb 'diktieren' (to dictate).

7

Er analysierte die Kondition der Probanden mit höchster Präzision.

He analyzed the stamina of the test subjects with the highest precision.

Noun 'Probanden' (test subjects).

8

Die Konditionen für den Frieden sind noch nicht ausgereift.

The conditions for peace are not yet fully developed.

Adjective 'ausgereift' (mature/fully developed).

Colocaciones comunes

gute Kondition haben
Kondition aufbauen
Kondition verlieren
Konditionen aushandeln
faire Konditionen
Konditionstraining machen
körperliche Kondition
finanzielle Konditionen
Kondition verbessern
an die Konditionen gebunden sein

Frases Comunes

Die Kondition ist im Keller.

— My stamina is non-existent (colloquial).

Nach der Pause ist meine Kondition im Keller.

Zu diesen Konditionen...

— Under these terms...

Zu diesen Konditionen unterschreibe ich nicht.

Kondition bolzen

— To train stamina very hard (slang).

In der Vorbereitung müssen wir Kondition bolzen.

Spezielle Konditionen

— Special terms or discounts.

Stammkunden erhalten spezielle Konditionen.

Konditionelle Verfassung

— Physical state regarding stamina.

Seine konditionelle Verfassung ist fragwürdig.

Eine mörderische Kondition

— Incredible/deadly stamina (hyperbole).

Der Läufer hat eine mörderische Kondition.

Die Konditionen festlegen

— To set the terms.

Der Chef wird die Konditionen festlegen.

Keine Kondition mehr haben

— To be out of breath/stamina.

Ich habe keine Kondition mehr, ich muss anhalten.

Günstige Konditionen

— Favorable terms.

Wir suchen günstige Konditionen für den Kredit.

Auf Kondition trainieren

— To train specifically for endurance.

Heute trainieren wir nur auf Kondition.

Se confunde a menudo con

die Kondition vs Zustand

Use 'Zustand' for objects (car, house). Use 'Kondition' for human stamina.

die Kondition vs Bedingung

Use 'Bedingung' for a single requirement. Use 'Konditionen' for a set of terms.

die Kondition vs Ausdauer

Almost the same, but 'Ausdauer' is more about the act of enduring, 'Kondition' is the state of fitness.

Modismos y expresiones

"In Kondition sein"

— To be fit and ready.

Bist du für das Spiel in Kondition?

neutral
"Die Konditionen diktieren"

— To have the power to set the terms.

Der Marktführer diktiert die Konditionen.

business
"Auf der Kondition reiten"

— To focus excessively on fitness (rare/regional).

Der Trainer reitet immer auf der Kondition.

informal
"Kondition ist das A und O"

— Stamina is the most important thing.

Beim Wandern ist Kondition das A und O.

neutral
"Die Kondition geht flöten"

— Stamina is being lost (slang).

Ohne Training geht die Kondition flöten.

informal
"Kondition tanken"

— To build up energy/stamina.

Im Trainingslager wollen wir Kondition tanken.

neutral
"An die Grenzen der Kondition gehen"

— To push one's stamina to the limit.

Das Rennen ging an die Grenzen meiner Kondition.

neutral
"Keine Kondition für etwas haben"

— To not have the energy to deal with something.

Ich habe heute keine Kondition für Streit.

metaphorical
"Die Konditionen sprengen den Rahmen"

— The terms are beyond what is acceptable.

Ihre Konditionen sprengen unseren Rahmen.

business
"Kondition beweisen"

— To show stamina or persistence.

Er bewies bei den Verhandlungen viel Kondition.

neutral

Fácil de confundir

die Kondition vs Konditionierung

Looks similar.

This is a psychological term (conditioning) like Pavlov's dogs.

Die Konditionierung des Hundes dauerte Wochen.

die Kondition vs Konditionell

Adjective form.

Refers to things related to physical stamina.

Das war eine konditionell schwierige Aufgabe.

die Kondition vs Konditor

Sounds similar.

A 'Konditor' is a pastry chef! Very different.

Der Konditor backt eine Torte.

die Kondition vs Tradition

Rhymes.

A custom or belief passed down.

Das ist eine alte Tradition.

die Kondition vs Konditional

Grammar term.

Refers to 'if/then' sentences in grammar.

Der Konditionalsatz beginnt mit 'wenn'.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

Ich habe [Adjektiv] Kondition.

Ich habe gute Kondition.

A2

Ich trainiere für meine [Substantiv].

Ich trainiere für meine Kondition.

B1

Die Konditionen sind [Adjektiv].

Die Konditionen sind fair.

B2

Wegen [Genitiv] Kondition...

Wegen meiner schlechten Kondition...

C1

Die Konditionen beinhalten [Akkusativ].

Die Konditionen beinhalten eine Versicherung.

C2

Es mangelt an [Dativ] Kondition.

Es mangelt an körperlicher Kondition.

A2

Um [zu + Infinitiv], brauche ich Kondition.

Um zu gewinnen, brauche ich Kondition.

B1

Haben Sie die Konditionen [Partizip II]?

Haben Sie die Konditionen gelesen?

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

Konditionstraining
Konditionsschwäche
Konditionsfaktor
Konditionierung

Verbos

konditionieren

Adjetivos

konditionell
konditioniert

Relacionado

Ausdauer
Fitness
Bedingung
Zustand
Vertrag

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very common in both sports-mad Germany and business-oriented Germany.

Errores comunes
  • Das Auto ist in schlechter Kondition. Das Auto ist in schlechtem Zustand.

    Kondition is for stamina, Zustand is for objects.

  • Ich habe eine Kondition für dich. Ich habe eine Bedingung für dich.

    'On one condition' translates to 'Bedingung', not 'Kondition'.

  • Die Kondition des Patienten ist stabil. Der Zustand des Patienten ist stabil.

    In a medical context, use 'Zustand' for a patient's general health state.

  • Meine Kondition ist gut (when talking about a car). Der Zustand meines Autos ist gut.

    Again, the false friend 'condition' leads to using 'Kondition' for objects.

  • Ich mache Fitness für meine Kondition (redundant). Ich trainiere für meine Kondition.

    While not strictly wrong, it's more natural to say you train for it.

Consejos

Gender Memory

Remember: All nouns ending in -tion are feminine. Die Kondition, die Information, die Station. This is a 100% reliable rule.

Sports Context

In a sports context, if you want to say someone is 'out of shape', say 'Er hat keine Kondition'. It's very natural.

Contract Terms

When looking at a job offer, the 'Konditionen' include your salary, vacation days, and working hours. Use this word to sound professional.

Avoid the False Friend

Never use 'Kondition' for the state of an object. If you're selling something on eBay, describe its 'Zustand', not its 'Kondition'.

The 'Tion' Sound

Practice the 'ts' sound. It's like the 'zz' in 'pizza'. Kon-di-tsion. Avoid the English 'sh' sound.

Hiking Talk

Before going on a hike with Germans, ask: 'Wie viel Kondition braucht man für diese Tour?' They will appreciate your realistic approach.

Visual Link

Visualize a 'Conditioner' for hair. It improves the 'state' of hair. In German, 'Kondition' improves the 'state' of your running. (Just a mnemonic!)

Compound Nouns

German loves compounds. Use 'Konditionsschwäche' if you want to say someone is struggling with their fitness.

Radio Ads

Listen for the word in radio ads for banks. They often say 'Top-Konditionen' very quickly at the end.

Small Talk

Complimenting someone on their 'Kondition' is a great way to be friendly at a local sports club.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'Condition' for a 'Competition'. You need 'Kondition' to win the race. Also, 'Kondition' sounds like 'Condition', but remember: no stamina = no win!

Asociación visual

Imagine a runner panting heavily with a giant battery icon over their head that is half-empty. The battery represents their 'Kondition'.

Word Web

Sport Laufen Vertrag Bank Ausdauer Fitness Gesundheit Geld

Desafío

Try to use 'Kondition' in a sentence about your favorite sport, and 'Konditionen' in a sentence about your phone bill today.

Origen de la palabra

From the Latin 'condicio', which means 'agreement', 'situation', or 'nature of a thing'. It entered German through French 'condition'.

Significado original: Agreement or external circumstance.

Indo-European (Latin -> Romance -> Germanic).

Contexto cultural

None. It is a neutral, safe word to use in all contexts.

English speakers often confuse 'Kondition' with 'Zustand'. In English, 'condition' covers both, which makes this a difficult word for beginners.

German sports commentators frequently use it during the 'Tour de France'. The term 'Konditionstraining' is a staple in every German sports club (Verein). Business news often headlines 'Neue Konditionen für Sparer' (New terms for savers).

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Gym/Fitness

  • Wie ist deine Kondition?
  • Ich mache Konditionstraining.
  • Meine Kondition wird besser.
  • Ich bin außer Kondition.

Banking/Finance

  • Wie sind die Konditionen?
  • Günstige Konditionen.
  • Die Konditionen vergleichen.
  • Zinskonditionen.

Job Interview

  • Die Konditionen des Vertrags.
  • Gehaltskonditionen.
  • Arbeitskonditionen.
  • Über die Konditionen sprechen.

Hiking/Outdoors

  • Braucht man viel Kondition?
  • Schwere Wanderung für gute Kondition.
  • Kondition testen.
  • Die Kondition reicht nicht.

Sports Commentary

  • Die Kondition lässt nach.
  • Mangelnde Kondition.
  • Hervorragende Kondition.
  • Konditionelle Vorteile.

Inicios de conversación

"Wie arbeitest du normalerweise an deiner Kondition?"

"Findest du, dass Schwimmen oder Laufen besser für die Kondition ist?"

"Hast du dir schon die Konditionen für das neue Fitnessstudio angesehen?"

"Warst du schon mal bei einer Wanderung, für die deine Kondition nicht gereicht hat?"

"Was sind für dich die wichtigsten Konditionen in einem Arbeitsvertrag?"

Temas para diario

Beschreibe dein aktuelles Konditionstraining. Was möchtest du in den nächsten drei Monaten erreichen?

Erinnere dich an eine Situation, in der du keine Kondition mehr hattest. Wie hast du dich gefühlt?

Wenn du einen Vertrag unterschreibst, auf welche Konditionen achtest du am meisten?

Schreibe über einen Sportler, der eine beeindruckende Kondition hat. Warum bewunderst du ihn?

Wie hat sich deine Kondition verändert, seit du angefangen hast, Deutsch zu lernen?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, that is incorrect. You should say 'Mein Handy ist in gutem Zustand'. 'Kondition' is only for physical stamina or contract terms.

Nearly. 'Fitness' is a broader term for overall health, while 'Kondition' focuses more on endurance and the ability to perform sports over a long time.

Because a contract usually has many different terms (price, time, rules), so Germans use the plural 'Konditionen' to cover all of them.

It is 'die Konditionen' with an 'n' at the end. All German nouns ending in '-tion' follow this pattern.

Rarely. For a medical condition/illness, Germans usually use 'Leiden', 'Erkrankung', or 'Zustand'. 'Kondition' is mostly positive or neutral about fitness.

It is a specific type of workout focused on improving heart and lung capacity, like running, cycling, or swimming.

You say 'unter einer Bedingung'. Do not use 'Kondition' here.

Yes, it is extremely common. You will see it in every gym and on every bank website in Germany.

No, it is always feminine: die Kondition.

Usually, 'Kondition' is physical. For mental stamina, words like 'Ausdauer', 'Beharrlichkeit', or 'mentale Stärke' are better.

Ponte a prueba 185 preguntas

writing

Schreibe einen Satz über deine Kondition.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Was machst du, um deine Kondition zu verbessern?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Benutze 'Konditionen' in einem Satz über eine Bank.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Erkläre den Unterschied zwischen Kondition und Zustand.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'Konditionstraining'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Warum ist Kondition wichtig für einen Sportler?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Was sind 'faire Konditionen' für dich?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
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Benutze 'keine Kondition' in einem Satz.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'Konditionen aushandeln'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Wie fühlt man sich mit guter Kondition?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Schreibe einen kurzen Dialog im Fitnessstudio über Kondition.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Verwende das Wort 'konditionell'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Was passiert, wenn die Kondition nachlässt?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Schreibe über die Konditionen deines Handyvertrags.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Benutze 'Top-Kondition' in einem Satz.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Was ist wichtig für eine gute Kondition neben Training?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'Konditionsfaktor'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Benutze das Wort 'Kondition' in einem Brief.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Frage jemanden nach den Konditionen.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz über Kondition im Winter.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Erzähle von deinem Sport. Wie wichtig ist Kondition dabei?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Was sind gute Konditionen für einen Job?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Hast du schon mal Kondition verloren? Warum?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Wie kann man seine Kondition schnell verbessern?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Sprich über einen Vertrag, den du unterschrieben hast. Waren die Konditionen gut?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Wie wichtig ist Kondition im Alltag (z.B. Treppensteigen)?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Welche Sportart braucht die meiste Kondition?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Was würdest du tun, wenn eine Bank schlechte Konditionen anbietet?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Bist du momentan in guter Kondition?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Wie fühlst du dich nach einem Konditionstraining?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Warum schauen sich Leute das Kleingedruckte wegen der Konditionen an?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
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Glaubst du, dass Profisportler eine bessere Kondition haben als früher?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Was ist anstrengender für die Kondition: Schwimmen oder Radfahren?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Sollten Schulen mehr Konditionstraining machen?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Wie würdest du Kondition einem Kind erklären?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Was sind 'Zahlungskonditionen'?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Hattest du schon mal Probleme wegen schlechter Kondition?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Wie oft sollte man trainieren, um die Kondition zu halten?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Was sind 'Sonderkonditionen'?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Gibt es einen Zusammenhang zwischen Ernährung und Kondition?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel (simuliert): 'Die Konditionen für den Kredit sind unschlagbar.' Was ist unschlagbar?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Ich muss an meiner Kondition arbeiten.' Was muss die Person tun?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Unsere Konditionen haben sich geändert.' Was ist neu?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Ohne Kondition kommst du nicht weit.' Was braucht man?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Die Konditionen sind im Vertrag geregelt.' Wo stehen sie?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Er hat eine super Kondition.' Wie ist seine Fitness?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Wir bieten Ihnen beste Konditionen.' Was bietet die Firma?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Kondition ist alles.' Was ist wichtig?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Seine Kondition lässt nach.' Was passiert?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Konditionstraining macht Spaß.' Was macht Spaß?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Zu diesen Konditionen kaufe ich nicht.' Kauft die Person?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Ihre Kondition ist beeindruckend.' Was ist beeindruckend?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Wir verhandeln die Konditionen.' Was machen sie?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Konditionelle Probleme.' Was für Probleme?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Hörbeispiel: 'Top-Konditionen bei uns.' Was gibt es dort?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 185 correct

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