At the A1 level, you should recognize 'Ressource' as a word for 'important things we need'. You might see it in simple sentences about nature or money. It is a 'big word' for a beginner, but you can understand it by thinking of 'water' or 'forests'. You don't need to use it in complex ways yet. Just remember it is 'die Ressource' and the plural is 'die Ressourcen'. Think of it as a synonym for 'important supplies'. For example, 'Wasser ist eine Ressource' (Water is a resource). At this stage, focusing on the plural form is most helpful because that is how you will see it most often in signs or simple news headlines. It is a feminine noun, so we say 'eine Ressource'.
At the A2 level, you can start using 'Ressource' to talk about basic needs and the environment. You might say 'Wir müssen Ressourcen sparen' (We must save resources) when talking about the environment. You are beginning to understand that resources aren't just things in nature, but also things like time and money. You can use simple adjectives like 'wichtig' (important) or 'neu' (new) with it. For example, 'Wir brauchen neue Ressourcen für unser Projekt.' You should also be aware that in a job context, 'Personal' is a type of resource. This level is about moving from just recognizing the word to using it in simple, everyday contexts related to work and the world around you.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'Ressource' in more varied contexts, especially in professional and academic settings. You can talk about 'zeitliche Ressourcen' (time resources) or 'finanzielle Ressourcen' (financial resources). You understand that resources can be limited ('begrenzt') and that they need to be managed ('managen' or 'verwalten'). You can participate in discussions about sustainability and explain why it is important to 'Ressourcen schonen' (conserve resources). You are also becoming familiar with compound words like 'Ressourcenverbrauch'. This is the level where the word becomes a regular part of your vocabulary for discussing plans, problems, and solutions in a structured way.
At the B2 level, you use 'Ressource' with precision and understand its abstract applications. You can discuss 'menschliche Ressourcen' in a business meeting or 'kognitive Ressourcen' in an educational context. You are comfortable with complex grammatical structures involving the word, such as 'Die effiziente Nutzung der vorhandenen Ressourcen ist entscheidend.' You can distinguish between 'Ressourcen' and similar words like 'Mittel' or 'Bestände'. You also start to use the word in psychological contexts, talking about 'innere Ressourcen' to overcome challenges. Your vocabulary includes more sophisticated verbs like 'erschließen' (to tap into/develop) or 'ausschöpfen' (to exhaust/fully utilize) in combination with 'Ressourcen'.
At the C1 level, 'Ressource' is a tool for nuanced argumentation. You can discuss the geopolitical implications of 'Ressourcenknappheit' or the ethics of 'Ressourcenausbeutung'. You use the word fluently in academic writing and formal presentations. You understand subtle differences in register—for example, when to use 'Ressource' versus a more specific term like 'Rohstoff' or 'Kapazität'. You can use idiomatic expressions and complex compound nouns effortlessly. You might analyze how 'Ressourcenallokation' affects social equity. At this level, you also recognize the word in literature or high-level journalism where it might be used metaphorically to describe a person's spirit or a nation's cultural heritage.
At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'Ressource' in all its dimensions. You can engage in deep philosophical or economic debates about the nature of resources in a post-industrial society. You understand the historical evolution of the term from its French origins to its current multi-faceted usage in German. You can use the word in highly sophisticated ways, perhaps in a legal or scientific treatise. You are sensitive to the connotations of the word in different fields—from 'Ressourcenmanagement' in business to 'Ressourcenorientierung' in systemic therapy. You can play with the word, using it in creative writing or complex metaphors, and you never confuse it with its synonyms, always choosing the most precise term for the context.

Ressource en 30 segundos

  • Ressource is a feminine German noun meaning 'resource', used for nature, business, and psychology.
  • It is most commonly used in the plural form 'Ressourcen' to describe supplies or capabilities.
  • Key collocations include 'Ressourcen schonen' (conserve) and 'Ressourcen nutzen' (use).
  • It is a formal word, often found in news, academic texts, and professional environments.
The German noun die Ressource is a versatile and essential term in modern German, much like its English counterpart 'resource'. At its core, it refers to a means, a supply, or a source of support that can be drawn upon to achieve a goal or fulfill a function. In the German-speaking world, this word has expanded from its original economic and naturalistic roots to encompass psychological, digital, and personal dimensions. When you hear a German speaker talk about resources, they might be referring to the natural wealth of a country, the staff in a company, or even their own internal mental strength.
Natural Context
In environmental discussions, it refers to 'natürliche Ressourcen' like water, minerals, or forests. Germany's focus on 'Nachhaltigkeit' (sustainability) makes this a frequent topic in news and politics.

Wir müssen lernen, mit unseren natürlichen Ressourcen verantwortungsvoller umzugehen.

Beyond the physical, the term is ubiquitous in the corporate world. 'Human Resources' is often translated or referred to as 'menschliche Ressourcen' or simply 'Personalressourcen'. It implies the skills, time, and labor that employees contribute to an organization. In project management, you will frequently encounter the phrase 'Ressourcenplanung', which involves the careful allocation of budget, equipment, and personnel to ensure a project's success. In a psychological or self-help context, 'Ressourcen' refers to the internal qualities that help an individual cope with stress or challenges, such as resilience, social support networks, or specific talents. This 'ressourcenorientierte' (resource-oriented) approach is a hallmark of modern German coaching and therapy.
Economic Context
Economic resources include capital, land, and labor. Economists analyze how these are distributed to maximize efficiency within the 'Marktwirtschaft'.

Die knappen Ressourcen müssen effizient auf die verschiedenen Abteilungen verteilt werden.

Zeit ist eine der kostbarsten Ressourcen, die wir im Berufsalltag haben.

Digital Context
In computing, it refers to CPU power, RAM, or bandwidth. A program that uses too many resources is called 'ressourcenintensiv'.

Diese Software benötigt viele System-Ressourcen, um flüssig zu laufen.

Jeder Mensch verfügt über innere Ressourcen, um Krisen zu bewältigen.

Understanding 'Ressource' requires recognizing its shift from a purely material meaning to a holistic concept of potential and capability.
Using Ressource correctly involves mastering its grammatical gender and its common collocations. As a feminine noun, it takes the articles 'die' (singular) and 'die' (plural). However, you will rarely see it in the singular unless you are defining a specific type of resource. In most practical applications, the plural 'Ressourcen' is the standard.
Verb Pairings
Common verbs used with this word include 'nutzen' (to use), 'schonen' (to conserve), 'verschwenden' (to waste), and 'mobilisieren' (to mobilize).

Wir müssen unsere vorhandenen Ressourcen besser nutzen.

When discussing environmental protection, the phrase 'Ressourcen schonen' is a key idiomatic expression. It implies a careful, sustainable approach to using nature's gifts. In contrast, in a business setting, you might hear about 'Ressourcenknappheit' (resource scarcity), which necessitates 'Ressourcenallokation' (resource allocation). Adjectives often modify 'Ressource' to specify the type. 'Finanzielle Ressourcen' (financial resources), 'personelle Ressourcen' (personnel resources), and 'zeitliche Ressourcen' (time resources) are the most frequent. Note how the adjective endings change based on the case: 'wegen finanzieller Ressourcen' (genitive) vs. 'mit finanziellen Ressourcen' (dative).
Adjective Usage
Adjectives like 'begrenzt' (limited), 'unerschöpflich' (inexhaustible), and 'wertvoll' (valuable) are frequently paired with this noun.

Trotz begrenzter Ressourcen hat das Team das Ziel erreicht.

Die Mobilisierung aller verfügbaren Ressourcen ist jetzt entscheidend.

Compound Nouns
German loves compounds. You will see 'Ressourcenmanagement', 'Ressourcenverbrauch', and 'Ressourcenfluch' (resource curse).

Ein nachhaltiges Ressourcenmanagement ist für die Zukunft der Erde unerlässlich.

Der hohe Ressourcenverbrauch der Industrieländer wird oft kritisiert.

By practicing these patterns, you can use 'Ressource' naturally in both professional and academic German.
You will encounter Ressource in a variety of real-world German contexts, ranging from the evening news to corporate boardrooms and therapeutic settings. In the media, especially in programs like 'Tagesschau' or 'heute-journal', the word is a staple of reports on climate change, energy policy, and global economics. Journalists often discuss the 'Ausbeutung von Ressourcen' (exploitation of resources) in developing countries or the 'Knappheit an Ressourcen' (scarcity of resources) leading to international conflicts.
In the Workplace
If you work in a German office, you will hear this word daily. It is the professional way to talk about people, money, and time without sounding too informal.

Wir haben für dieses Projekt leider nicht genügend Ressourcen frei.

In this corporate context, 'Ressourcen' is often a euphemism for 'staff' or 'budget'. A manager might say 'Wir müssen unsere Ressourcen bündeln' (We need to pool our resources) to indicate that different teams need to work together on a single priority. In educational and psychological settings, the word takes on a more positive, individualistic tone. Teachers might talk about the 'kognitiven Ressourcen' (cognitive resources) of a student, or a therapist might help a patient identify their 'inneren Ressourcen' to deal with depression or anxiety. This usage highlights the word's meaning as a 'source of strength'.
In Science and Academia
Academic papers on sustainability, sociology, and economics use 'Ressource' as a technical term to categorize various inputs into a system.

Die Studie untersucht den Zugang zu digitalen Ressourcen in ländlichen Gebieten.

Wasser wird im 21. Jahrhundert die am stärksten umkämpfte Ressource sein.

In IT and Technology
System administrators monitor 'Server-Ressourcen' to prevent crashes and ensure optimal performance for users.

Der Browser verbraucht zu viele Ressourcen im Hintergrund.

Wir müssen unsere Ressourcen bündeln, um den Termin einzuhalten.

Whether you are reading a high-level economic analysis or discussing project timelines with colleagues, 'Ressource' is the go-to word for anything that serves as a necessary input or a source of power.
Even though Ressource looks very similar to the English word 'resource', there are several pitfalls that English speakers and even native German speakers encounter. The most frequent errors involve spelling, pronunciation, and confusing it with similar-sounding German words.
Spelling Errors
The most common mistake is writing 'Resorce' or 'Ressourse'. Remember: double 's' after the first 'e', and only one 'r' in the middle. It follows the French spelling 'ressource'.

Falsch: Resourcen. Richtig: Ressourcen.

Another common error is the pronunciation of the 'ou' part. In German, 'ou' is pronounced like a long 'u' (as in 'moon'), not like the 'ou' in 'house' or 'resource'. It sounds like 'Re-suhr-se'. English speakers often try to pronounce it the English way, which can make it hard for Germans to understand. Learners also struggle with the distinction between 'Ressource' and 'Quelle' (source). While they are synonyms in some contexts, 'Quelle' usually refers to the origin of something (like a spring of water or a source for a citation), whereas 'Ressource' refers to the thing as a usable asset or supply.
Conceptual Confusion
Don't use 'Ressource' when you mean 'Mittel' (means/funds) in a very simple, everyday context. 'Ressource' sounds more formal and technical.

Ich habe kein Geld (nicht: Ich habe keine Ressourcen), um ins Kino zu gehen.

Die Informationsquelle (nicht: Informations-Ressource) war sehr zuverlässig.

Grammatical Number
Using the singular when the plural is required is a frequent B1-level mistake. If you are talking about 'resources' in general, always use 'Ressourcen'.

Wir müssen die Ressourcen (plural) schützen.

Die wichtigste Ressource (singular) eines Landes ist Bildung.

Avoiding these mistakes will make your German sound much more professional and precise.
While Ressource is a powerful and widely used word, German offers several alternatives depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Understanding these synonyms helps you avoid repetition and achieve greater precision in your speech and writing.
Quelle vs. Ressource
'Quelle' means 'source' or 'origin'. Use 'Quelle' for information or the physical start of a river. Use 'Ressource' for a supply that can be used up or managed.

Die Ressource Wasser stammt aus einer unterirdischen Quelle.

Another common alternative is 'Mittel' (means/funds). This is often used in the plural 'Mittel' to refer to financial resources. It is slightly less abstract than 'Ressource'. For example, 'finanzielle Mittel' is often interchangeable with 'finanzielle Ressourcen', but 'Mittel' is more common in everyday bureaucratic language. In a psychological context, you might use 'Potenzial' (potential) or 'Stärken' (strengths). While 'Ressource' refers to the internal tool you use, 'Stärke' refers to the quality itself. 'Vorrat' (stock/supply) is another synonym, but it is much more physical and limited. You have a 'Vorrat' of food in the pantry, but you have 'Ressourcen' for a long-term project.
Bestand vs. Ressource
'Bestand' refers to an inventory or a current stock (like 'Warenbestand' - stock of goods). 'Ressource' is more about the capacity to provide.

Wir müssen den Bestand an Rohstoffen prüfen, bevor wir neue Ressourcen erschließen.

Das Unternehmen verfügt über enorme finanzielle Mittel.

Kapazität vs. Ressource
'Kapazität' (capacity) refers to the maximum amount something can contain or produce. 'Ressource' is the actual input used.

Unsere personellen Kapazitäten sind voll ausgeschöpft.

Die Natur bietet uns unerschöpfliche Energiequellen.

Mastering these distinctions will allow you to describe complex situations with the nuance of a native speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

In the 18th and 19th centuries, a 'Ressource' in German-speaking cities was often a social club or a reading society where people could 'refresh' their minds.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /rɛˈsʊrsə/
US /rɛˈsʊrsə/
The stress is on the second syllable: Re-SSOUR-ce.
Rima con
Quelle (partial) Schleuse (partial) Kurse (partial) Börse (partial) Verse (partial) Ferse (partial) Erbse (partial) Linse (partial)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the 'ou' like the English 'ou' in 'out'.
  • Pronouncing the 'r' too strongly like an English 'r'.
  • Missing the final schwa 'e' sound.
  • Stressing the first syllable instead of the second.
  • Pronouncing the 'ss' as a voiced 'z' sound.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

Easy to recognize because of the English cognate, but spelling can be tricky.

Escritura 4/5

Requires careful attention to the double 's' and the French-style 'ou'.

Expresión oral 4/5

The 'ou' sound and the final 'e' require practice to sound native.

Escucha 3/5

Generally clear in context, but can be confused with 'Kurse' if spoken quickly.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

die Quelle das Mittel nutzen wichtig die Natur

Aprende después

die Nachhaltigkeit die Effizienz verfügen über schonen der Rohstoff

Avanzado

die Allokation die Resilienz die Extraktion die Kreislaufwirtschaft die Synergie

Gramática que debes saber

Feminine Noun Declension

Die Ressource (Nom), der Ressource (Gen), der Ressource (Dat), die Ressource (Akk).

Plural Formation with -n

Eine Ressource -> Viele Ressourcen.

Compound Noun Construction

Ressourcen + Management = Ressourcenmanagement.

Preposition 'über' with 'verfügen'

Er verfügt über (akk) viele Ressourcen.

Adjective Endings in Plural

Mit neuen Ressourcen (Dative plural ending -en).

Ejemplos por nivel

1

Wasser ist eine wichtige Ressource.

Water is an important resource.

Feminine singular noun.

2

Wir haben viele Ressourcen.

We have many resources.

Plural form 'Ressourcen'.

3

Ist das eine Ressource?

Is that a resource?

Question structure.

4

Bäume sind natürliche Ressourcen.

Trees are natural resources.

Adjective 'natürliche' matches plural noun.

5

Geld ist eine Ressource.

Money is a resource.

Simple identification.

6

Diese Ressource ist neu.

This resource is new.

Demonstrative pronoun 'Diese'.

7

Wir brauchen Ressourcen.

We need resources.

Direct object in accusative.

8

Die Ressource ist gut.

The resource is good.

Subject-predicate structure.

1

Wir müssen unsere Ressourcen sparen.

We must save our resources.

Modal verb 'müssen' with infinitive 'sparen'.

2

Hast du genug Ressourcen für die Arbeit?

Do you have enough resources for the work?

Adverb 'genug' modifying the noun.

3

Das Land hat wenig Ressourcen.

The country has few resources.

Indefinite pronoun 'wenig'.

4

Wir suchen nach neuen Ressourcen.

We are looking for new resources.

Preposition 'nach' takes the dative case.

5

Zeit ist eine knappe Ressource.

Time is a scarce resource.

Adjective 'knappe' means scarce.

6

Die Firma nutzt ihre Ressourcen gut.

The company uses its resources well.

Possessive pronoun 'ihre'.

7

Schützen Sie die Ressourcen der Natur!

Protect the resources of nature!

Imperative form with 'Sie'.

8

Welche Ressourcen haben wir heute?

Which resources do we have today?

Interrogative pronoun 'Welche'.

1

Wir müssen die vorhandenen Ressourcen effizienter nutzen.

We must use the existing resources more efficiently.

Comparative adverb 'effizienter'.

2

Nachhaltigkeit bedeutet, Ressourcen zu schonen.

Sustainability means conserving resources.

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

3

Die personellen Ressourcen sind derzeit begrenzt.

The personnel resources are currently limited.

Adjective 'personell' refers to staff.

4

Er verfügt über große finanzielle Ressourcen.

He has great financial resources at his disposal.

Verb 'verfügen über' + accusative.

5

Die Planung der Ressourcen ist sehr wichtig.

The planning of resources is very important.

Genitive case 'der Ressourcen'.

6

Können wir diese Ressource für unser Projekt mobilisieren?

Can we mobilize this resource for our project?

Verb 'mobilisieren' in a question.

7

Der übermäßige Ressourcenverbrauch schadet der Umwelt.

Excessive resource consumption harms the environment.

Compound noun 'Ressourcenverbrauch'.

8

Jeder Mensch hat innere Ressourcen gegen Stress.

Every person has internal resources against stress.

Adjective 'innere' (internal).

1

Die Allokation der Ressourcen erfolgt nach strengen Kriterien.

The allocation of resources is carried out according to strict criteria.

Technical term 'Allokation'.

2

Wir müssen neue Energiequellen als Ressource erschließen.

We must develop new energy sources as a resource.

Verb 'erschließen' (to develop/tap into).

3

Die Ressourcenknappheit führt zu steigenden Preisen.

Resource scarcity leads to rising prices.

Compound noun 'Ressourcenknappheit'.

4

Es mangelt uns an den notwendigen Ressourcen für die Expansion.

We lack the necessary resources for expansion.

Expression 'es mangelt an' + dative.

5

Das Unternehmen setzt auf ressourcenschonende Technologien.

The company relies on resource-saving technologies.

Adjective 'ressourcenschonend'.

6

Die kognitiven Ressourcen der Schüler werden gefördert.

The students' cognitive resources are being promoted.

Passive voice 'werden gefördert'.

7

Durch kluges Management lassen sich Ressourcen bündeln.

Through clever management, resources can be pooled.

Reflexive construction 'lassen sich'.

8

Der Bericht warnt vor der Ausbeutung natürlicher Ressourcen.

The report warns against the exploitation of natural resources.

Preposition 'vor' + dative.

1

Die ungleiche Verteilung globaler Ressourcen ist ein ethisches Problem.

The unequal distribution of global resources is an ethical problem.

Complex subject with genitive attribute.

2

Wir müssen die Synergieeffekte unserer Ressourcen maximieren.

We must maximize the synergy effects of our resources.

Abstract noun 'Synergieeffekte'.

3

Die psychische Resilienz gilt als eine der wichtigsten inneren Ressourcen.

Psychological resilience is considered one of the most important internal resources.

Verb 'gelten als' (to be considered as).

4

Ressourcenfluch beschreibt das Paradoxon des Reichtums an Rohstoffen.

Resource curse describes the paradox of wealth in raw materials.

Specific economic term 'Ressourcenfluch'.

5

Die digitale Transformation erfordert massive personelle Ressourcen.

Digital transformation requires massive personnel resources.

Strong adjective 'massiv'.

6

Die Endlichkeit fossiler Ressourcen zwingt uns zum Umdenken.

The finiteness of fossil resources forces us to rethink.

Noun 'Endlichkeit' (finiteness).

7

Effizientes Ressourcenmanagement ist ein Wettbewerbsvorteil.

Efficient resource management is a competitive advantage.

Compound 'Wettbewerbsvorteil'.

8

Die Studie belegt den Zusammenhang zwischen Bildung und Ressourcen.

The study proves the connection between education and resources.

Verb 'belegen' (to prove/document).

1

Die Extraktion von Ressourcen in fragilen Ökosystemen ist hochumstritten.

The extraction of resources in fragile ecosystems is highly controversial.

Sophisticated vocabulary 'Extraktion', 'fragil'.

2

Ressourcenorientierung in der Therapie fokussiert auf die Stärken des Klienten.

Resource orientation in therapy focuses on the client's strengths.

Technical term 'Ressourcenorientierung'.

3

Die geopolitische Dimension der Ressourcenkontrolle darf nicht unterschätzt werden.

The geopolitical dimension of resource control must not be underestimated.

Passive modal construction.

4

In einer Kreislaufwirtschaft werden Ressourcen kontinuierlich wiederverwertet.

In a circular economy, resources are continuously recycled.

Adverb 'kontinuierlich'.

5

Die Verschwendung von Ressourcen ist ein Symptom unserer Wegwerfgesellschaft.

The waste of resources is a symptom of our throwaway society.

Sociological term 'Wegwerfgesellschaft'.

6

Wir müssen die immateriellen Ressourcen unseres kulturellen Erbes bewahren.

We must preserve the intangible resources of our cultural heritage.

Adjective 'immateriell' (intangible).

7

Die Allokation knapper Ressourcen unterliegt komplexen Marktmechanismen.

The allocation of scarce resources is subject to complex market mechanisms.

Verb 'unterliegen' + dative.

8

Eine ressourcenintensive Lebensweise ist global nicht verallgemeinerbar.

A resource-intensive lifestyle is not globally generalizable.

Adjective 'verallgemeinerbar'.

Colocaciones comunes

natürliche Ressourcen
finanzielle Ressourcen
personelle Ressourcen
Ressourcen schonen
Ressourcen nutzen
knappe Ressourcen
innere Ressourcen
Ressourcen verschwenden
Ressourcen erschließen
Ressourcen bündeln

Frases Comunes

Ressourcenmanagement betreiben

— To manage resources professionally. Often used in business contexts.

Die Firma muss besseres Ressourcenmanagement betreiben.

Auf Ressourcen zurückgreifen

— To fall back on or use available resources. Common in problem-solving.

Wir können auf unsere alten Ressourcen zurückgreifen.

Ressourcen mobilisieren

— To gather or activate resources for a specific purpose.

In der Krise müssen wir alle Ressourcen mobilisieren.

Ressourcen effizient einsetzen

— To use resources in a way that minimizes waste.

Es ist wichtig, Ressourcen effizient einzusetzen.

Umgang mit Ressourcen

— The way one handles or treats resources.

Ein verantwortungsvoller Umgang mit Ressourcen ist nötig.

Zugang zu Ressourcen

— The ability to obtain or use resources.

Nicht jeder hat den gleichen Zugang zu Ressourcen.

Ressourcen ausschöpfen

— To use up or fully utilize resources.

Wir haben unsere Ressourcen komplett ausgeschöpft.

Ressourcen bereitstellen

— To provide or make resources available.

Die Regierung wird zusätzliche Ressourcen bereitstellen.

Ressourcen einsparen

— To save or reduce the use of resources.

Durch neue Technik können wir Ressourcen einsparen.

Verfügbare Ressourcen

— The resources that are currently on hand.

Wir arbeiten mit den verfügbaren Ressourcen.

Se confunde a menudo con

Ressource vs Quelle

Quelle is the origin; Ressource is the supply you use.

Ressource vs Rohstoff

Rohstoff is specifically a raw material; Ressource is any asset.

Ressource vs Mittel

Mittel is more common for money; Ressource is more abstract/technical.

Modismos y expresiones

"Aus dem Vollen schöpfen"

— To have plenty of resources and use them freely. While it doesn't use the word 'Ressource', it is the idiomatic way to describe having many.

Bei diesem Budget können wir aus dem Vollen schöpfen.

Informal
"Seine Kräfte einteilen"

— To manage one's personal energy (resource) wisely.

Du musst dir deine Kräfte besser einteilen.

Neutral
"Am Limit arbeiten"

— To work at the very edge of one's resources/capacity.

Das Team arbeitet seit Wochen am Limit.

Informal
"Auf Sparflamme laufen"

— To operate with minimal resources or energy.

Das Projekt läuft momentan auf Sparflamme.

Informal
"Den Gürtel enger schnallen"

— To live with fewer financial resources; to be frugal.

Wegen der Krise müssen wir den Gürtel enger schnallen.

Informal
"Alles auf eine Karte setzen"

— To risk all resources on one single thing.

Er hat alles auf eine Karte gesetzt und gewonnen.

Neutral
"Über seine Verhältnisse leben"

— To spend more resources (money) than one actually has.

Sie leben deutlich über ihre Verhältnisse.

Neutral
"Mit den Pfunden wuchern"

— To make the most of one's talents or resources.

Die Stadt sollte mit ihren touristischen Pfunden wuchern.

Literary
"In die Vollen gehen"

— To use all available resources to the maximum.

Jetzt müssen wir richtig in die Vollen gehen.

Informal
"Keinen Stein auf dem anderen lassen"

— To use all resources to completely change or destroy something.

Die Reform wird keinen Stein auf dem anderen lassen.

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

Ressource vs Resonanz

Similar beginning 'Res-'.

Resonanz means resonance or feedback, not a supply.

Die Resonanz auf den Vortrag war positiv.

Ressource vs Ross

Similar sound in the first syllable.

Ross is an old word for horse.

Der Ritter ritt auf seinem stolzen Ross.

Ressource vs Ressort

Very similar spelling and French origin.

Ressort means a department or area of responsibility.

Das ist nicht mein Ressort.

Ressource vs Rezension

Similar prefix 'Re-'.

Rezension means a review (of a book or movie).

Ich habe eine gute Rezension gelesen.

Ressource vs Reserve

Both refer to things kept for later.

Reserve is specifically something held back for emergencies; Ressource is anything usable.

Wir haben noch eine Reserve im Tank.

Patrones de oraciones

A1

[Subject] ist eine [Adjective] Ressource.

Wasser ist eine wichtige Ressource.

A2

Wir müssen [Noun] sparen/schonen.

Wir müssen Ressourcen sparen.

B1

Wir haben nicht genug [Adjective] Ressourcen für [Object].

Wir haben nicht genug finanzielle Ressourcen für den Urlaub.

B2

Die [Noun] der Ressourcen ist [Adjective].

Die Allokation der Ressourcen ist schwierig.

C1

Angesichts der [Noun] müssen wir [Verb].

Angesichts der Ressourcenknappheit müssen wir umdenken.

C2

Die [Adjective] Nutzung von Ressourcen bildet die Basis für [Noun].

Die effiziente Nutzung von Ressourcen bildet die Basis für nachhaltiges Wachstum.

B1

Es mangelt an [Dative] Ressourcen.

Es mangelt an personellen Ressourcen.

B2

Durch [Accusative] lassen sich Ressourcen [Verb].

Durch Kooperation lassen sich Ressourcen bündeln.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

Ressourcenmanagement
Ressourcenknappheit
Ressourcenverbrauch
Ressourceneffizienz
Ressourcenschonung

Verbos

ressourcieren (rare technical term)

Adjetivos

ressourcenschonend
ressourcenintensiv
ressourcenorientiert
ressourcenreich
ressourcenarm

Relacionado

Quelle
Mittel
Rohstoff
Potenzial
Vorrat

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very high in news, business, and science; moderate in casual conversation.

Errores comunes
  • Die Resorce Die Ressource

    Missing the double 's' and the 'u'. This is the most common spelling error for beginners.

  • Ressourcen verschonen Ressourcen schonen

    'Verschonen' means to spare someone's life or spare them from something bad. 'Schonen' means to conserve or treat carefully.

  • Pronouncing 'ou' like 'ow' Pronouncing 'ou' like 'oo'

    The English 'ou' sound doesn't exist in this German word. It must be a pure 'u' sound.

  • Using 'Ressource' for a book source Using 'Quelle' for a book source

    In academic citations, you always use 'Quelle', never 'Ressource'.

  • Der Ressource Die Ressource

    Using the wrong gender. It is a feminine noun.

Consejos

The Double S Rule

Always use two 's' characters. If you use only one, it would change the pronunciation of the 'e' before it. The double 's' keeps the 'e' short and crisp.

Plural is King

When in doubt, use the plural 'Ressourcen'. It is much more common in almost every context, from business to ecology.

The French Connection

Since the word is from French, try to keep the pronunciation soft and elegant. Avoid the harsh 'r' if you can, and keep the 'u' sound long.

Pair with 'schonen'

If you want to sound like a native environmentalist, always use the verb 'schonen' (to conserve) with 'Ressourcen'. It's the perfect idiomatic match.

Professional Euphemism

Use 'personelle Ressourcen' in meetings when you want to talk about staffing levels without sounding too personal or too blunt.

Internal Strength

Use 'innere Ressourcen' to describe things like patience, courage, or humor. It's a very common way to talk about mental health in German.

Avoid Repetition

If you have used 'Ressource' too many times in a text, switch to 'Mittel', 'Grundlagen', or 'Bestände' to keep your writing interesting.

Sustainability Focus

In Germany, 'Ressourcen' is almost always linked to 'Nachhaltigkeit' (sustainability). Keep this connection in mind when reading news articles.

Cognate Advantage

Use your knowledge of the English word 'resource' to guess the meaning, but don't let the English spelling or pronunciation confuse you.

Rising Again

Remember the Latin root 'resurgere' (to rise again). A resource is something that helps you rise to a challenge or recover from a loss.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a 'Source' that you use 'Re'-peatedly. Re-Source = Ressource. It's the 'stuff' you go back to when you need help.

Asociación visual

Imagine a giant battery (representing energy/resources) powering a whole city. The battery has the word 'RESSOURCE' written on it in bright neon letters.

Word Web

Wasser Geld Zeit Mitarbeiter Wissen Energie Wald Talent

Desafío

Try to identify three 'Ressourcen' you have used today (e.g., your phone's battery, your morning coffee, your focus) and say them in German: 'Meine erste Ressource heute war...'

Origen de la palabra

The word 'Ressource' entered the German language in the 18th century from the French word 'ressource'. The French term itself comes from the Old French 'resourdre', which means 'to rise again' or 'to recover'.

Significado original: Originally, it referred to a means of recovery or a way out of a difficult situation.

Indo-European, Romance (via French), ultimately from Latin 'resurgere'.

Contexto cultural

Be careful when referring to people as 'Ressourcen' in a very cold, clinical way; some might find it dehumanizing, though it is standard in business.

In English, 'human resources' is a very common department name. In German, while 'Human Resources' is used in international companies, 'Personalabteilung' is still very common.

The 'Club of Rome' report on the limits to growth (Grenzen des Wachstums) is a famous text discussing global resources. German sustainability laws (Kreislaufwirtschaftsgesetz). Psychological theories by Aaron Antonovsky (Salutogenesis) which focus on health-promoting resources.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Environmental Protection

  • Ressourcen schonen
  • natürliche Ressourcen
  • nachhaltiger Umgang
  • Ressourcenverbrauch senken

Business & Management

  • Ressourcenplanung
  • personelle Ressourcen
  • Ressourcen bündeln
  • Budgetressourcen

Psychology & Coaching

  • innere Ressourcen
  • ressourcenorientiert
  • Kraftquellen
  • Resilienz stärken

IT & Technology

  • Systemressourcen
  • ressourcenintensiv
  • Speicherkapazität
  • Serverressourcen

Economics & Politics

  • Ressourcenknappheit
  • Ressourcenfluch
  • globale Ressourcen
  • Ressourcenkontrolle

Inicios de conversación

"Welche Ressourcen sind für dein aktuelles Projekt am wichtigsten?"

"Glaubst du, dass wir unsere natürlichen Ressourcen genug schützen?"

"Wie teilst du dir deine zeitlichen Ressourcen im Alltag ein?"

"Was sind deine wichtigsten inneren Ressourcen in stressigen Zeiten?"

"Sollten Schulen mehr über den Umgang mit Ressourcen lehren?"

Temas para diario

Reflektiere über eine Situation, in der du deine Ressourcen (Zeit, Energie, Geld) nicht gut eingeteilt hast. Was hast du gelernt?

Beschreibe drei innere Ressourcen, die dir helfen, schwierige Phasen in deinem Leben zu überstehen.

Wie würde eine Welt aussehen, in der wir alle Ressourcen perfekt recyceln würden?

Welche Rolle spielt Bildung als Ressource für die Entwicklung eines Landes?

Denke an deinen Arbeitsplatz oder deine Schule. Wo werden dort Ressourcen verschwendet?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Yes, 'Ressource' is always feminine in German. You say 'die Ressource' in the singular and 'die Ressourcen' in the plural. This never changes regardless of the context, whether you are talking about water or human beings.

Yes, in a business context, it is very common to speak of 'menschliche Ressourcen' or 'Personalressourcen'. However, in casual conversation, it might sound a bit cold or technical. It is better to use 'Mitarbeiter' or 'Kollegen' when speaking informally.

A 'Rohstoff' is a raw material from nature, like iron ore or crude oil. A 'Ressource' is a broader term that includes 'Rohstoffe' but also includes money, time, knowledge, and people. All 'Rohstoffe' are resources, but not all resources are 'Rohstoffe'.

The 'ou' is pronounced like a long German 'u' (or the 'oo' in the English word 'moon'). It is a single, steady sound, not a diphthong. Think of the word 'Schuh' and use that same vowel sound.

It is very common in the news and at work. In casual daily life, people might use simpler words like 'Geld', 'Zeit', or 'Sachen', but 'Ressource' is used whenever someone wants to sound more precise or professional.

It is a popular term in German psychology and education. It means focusing on the strengths and tools a person already has, rather than focusing on their problems or what they are missing. It is a very positive way of looking at someone.

Usually, we are talking about a collection of different assets or a general supply, so the plural 'Ressourcen' is more natural. You only use the singular when you are identifying one specific type, like 'Die Ressource Wasser'.

Historically, yes. In the 18th and 19th centuries, many German cities had a 'Ressource-Gesellschaft', which was a club for the middle class. Today, this meaning is obsolete, and you will only find it in history books or old building names.

It means 'resource scarcity'. It is a key term in economics and environmental science to describe the situation where there is not enough of a resource to satisfy all needs. It is a very common word in German news.

The plural is 'Ressourcen'. You simply add an 'n' to the singular 'Ressource'. Make sure to keep the double 's' and the 'ou' spelling from the singular form.

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence about saving water using 'Ressource'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe your personal resources for work.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain why sustainability is important.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a formal sentence about resource allocation.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

What are the risks of resource exploitation?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

How can a company improve its resource management?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Time is a scarce resource.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write about a resource-intensive hobby.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'verfügen über' and 'Ressourcen' in a sentence.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

What does 'ressourcenorientiert' mean to you?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a short dialogue about a project's budget.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'We must pool our resources.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe the 'resource curse' in one sentence.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

How do you conserve resources at home?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about 'human resources'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The exploitation of nature.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

What is a 'renewable resource' in German?

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about 'inner strength'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain 'Ressourceneffizienz'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Access to digital resources.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Pronounce 'die Ressource' correctly.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'We must save resources.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe your company's resources.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain the concept of 'innere Ressourcen'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss the problem of resource scarcity.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

How do you use your time resources?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about natural resources in your country.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

What is 'Nachhaltigkeit' for you?

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Financial resources are limited.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss 'Ressourceneffizienz' in industry.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'We need to pool our resources.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'human resources' in a job interview.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Water is a vital resource.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain why recycling is important.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss the 'resource curse'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'We are looking for new resources.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about your 'cognitive resources'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'The project is resource-intensive.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss the ethics of resource extraction.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say: 'Access to resources is a human right.'

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and write: 'Die Ressourcen sind knapp.'

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

Listen and write: 'Wir müssen Ressourcen schonen.'

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

Listen and write: 'Finanzielle Ressourcen fehlen uns.'

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

Listen and write: 'Innere Ressourcen stärken.'

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

Listen and write: 'Nachhaltiges Ressourcenmanagement.'

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

Listen and write: 'Natürliche Ressourcen schützen.'

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

Listen and write: 'Personelle Ressourcen planen.'

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

Listen and write: 'Ressourcen effizient nutzen.'

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

Listen and write: 'Verschwendung von Ressourcen.'

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

Listen and write: 'Erschließung neuer Ressourcen.'

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

Listen and write: 'Ressourcenorientierte Therapie.'

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

Listen and write: 'Globale Ressourcenverteilung.'

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

Listen and write: 'Digitale Ressourcen nutzen.'

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

Listen and write: 'Ressourcenknappheit bekämpfen.'

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

Listen and write: 'Zeit ist eine Ressource.'

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

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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