At the A1 level, you don't really need the word 'Witterung' yet. You should focus on 'Wetter' (weather). 'Wetter' is easy: 'Das Wetter ist gut' (The weather is good). 'Witterung' is a much more difficult word because it has two meanings (weather conditions and scent) and is used in more formal German. If you see this word in a text, just think of it as a fancy way to say 'weather'. It is a feminine word, so it is 'die Witterung'. You might see it on a sign at a park or a zoo, but for your daily speaking, stick to 'Wetter'. Just remember that 'Witterung' is about how the air feels over a few days, not just right now.
At the A2 level, you might start seeing 'Witterung' in short news reports or on labels for outdoor products. For example, if you buy a jacket, the label might say it is 'gegen Witterung geschützt' (protected against weather conditions). This means it keeps you dry and warm. You should also know that 'Witterung' is different from 'Klima'. 'Klima' is for many years, but 'Witterung' is for a few days or weeks. If you go hiking, the guide might say 'Bei guter Witterung wandern wir' (In good weather conditions, we will hike). It is slightly more formal than 'Wetter'.
As a B1 learner, 'Witterung' becomes more important for reading comprehension. You should understand that it describes the character of the weather and its effects. If a construction project is delayed, the reason given is often 'die schlechte Witterung'. This sounds more professional than 'das schlechte Wetter'. You should also learn the common phrase 'der Witterung ausgesetzt sein' (to be exposed to the elements). This is very useful when describing buildings, nature, or even people who have to work outside. You are now at the level where you should distinguish between the immediate 'Wetter' and the general 'Witterung' of a season or a specific period.
At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'Witterung' in your own writing, especially in formal letters or reports. You should also be aware of its secondary meaning in the context of animals and hunting. While you might not hunt, you will encounter this in literature or nature documentaries. 'Die Witterung aufnehmen' means to catch a scent. Metaphorically, it can mean to sense an opportunity or danger. You should also be comfortable with compound nouns like 'Witterungsbedingungen' (weather conditions) or 'Witterungsverhältnisse'. These are standard in business and technical German.
At the C1 level, you should appreciate the stylistic difference between 'Wetter' and 'Witterung'. 'Witterung' carries a connotation of the weather as a force of nature that acts upon the world. You should use it when discussing environmental impacts, historical architecture, or agricultural trends. You should also understand the verb 'verwittern' (to weather/to erode), which comes from this noun. A C1 learner knows that 'Witterung' is not just about rain or sun, but about the 'atmospheric character' of a time and place. It is a word of precision and professional observation.
For C2 learners, 'Witterung' is a tool for nuanced expression. You can use it in philosophical or highly literary contexts. For example, discussing the 'Witterung der Zeit' (the scent/spirit of the times) is a metaphorical stretch that is perfectly understandable at this level. You should be familiar with the specialized language of forestry and hunting where 'Witterung' is the primary term for scent. You can also analyze how 'Witterung' is used in legal texts to define 'acts of God' or environmental liabilities. At this level, you should have a complete grasp of all its technical, metaphorical, and everyday nuances.

Witterung en 30 segundos

  • Witterung refers to weather conditions over a short period (days/weeks) and their specific impacts.
  • It also means the scent or smell of an animal, especially in hunting contexts.
  • It is a feminine noun (die Witterung) and is more formal than 'Wetter'.
  • Commonly used in construction, agriculture, and nature descriptions to denote weathering or atmospheric influence.

The German noun Witterung is a fascinating word that English speakers often struggle to translate perfectly because it encompasses several distinct but related concepts. At its core, it refers to the general state of the weather over a short period, particularly how those atmospheric conditions affect the environment, materials, or activities. While Wetter refers to the immediate state of the sky (rain, sun, wind right now), Witterung describes the character of the weather over several days or its specific influence. For instance, a farmer might worry about the Witterung during the harvest season, referring to the pattern of rain and humidity rather than just one specific storm. However, the word has a secondary, very different meaning in the world of biology and hunting: it refers to the scent or the sense of smell of an animal. When a deer 'takes up the scent' of a human, it is said to Witterung aufnehmen.

Atmospheric Context
In this sense, it describes the weather's impact. If a house's facade is crumbling because of rain and frost, Germans say it is due to 'Witterungseinflüsse' (weathering influences). It is a more technical or formal term than simple 'Wetter'.
Hunting and Animal Behavior
In forestry or hunting, 'Witterung' is the smell carried by the wind. A hunter must always stay downwind so the animal does not get 'Witterung' of them. This usage is ancient and connects the air (weather) with the particles it carries.

Die Steinfigur hat durch die jahrelange Witterung ihre feinen Details verloren.

Translation: The stone figure has lost its fine details due to years of weathering.

Using Witterung instead of Wetter elevates your German. It suggests a deeper understanding of how the atmosphere interacts with the world. You will hear it in weather reports when experts discuss 'die milden Witterungsverhältnisse' (the mild weather conditions) of the past week. It implies a duration and a specific characteristic. If you are talking about a specific day's plan, use Wetter. If you are talking about the conditions that caused your wooden fence to rot, use Witterung.

Das Wild hat die Witterung des Jägers aufgenommen und ist geflohen.

Translation: The game picked up the hunter's scent and fled.
Technical Application
In construction, materials are tested for 'Witterungsbeständigkeit' (weather resistance). This means how well they stand up to rain, UV light, and temperature changes over time.

In summary, Witterung is a multi-layered term. It spans from the technical aspects of meteorology and engineering to the primal instincts of animals in the forest. Understanding this word allows you to describe the environment with much greater precision than the basic word Wetter allows.

To master Witterung, you must learn its common syntactic environments. It is almost always used with adjectives that describe the quality of the weather over a period. Common adjectives include ungünstig (unfavorable), mild (mild), feucht (damp), or rau (harsh). Because it is a feminine noun, you will see it preceded by die, der (genitive/dative), or einer.

Describing Conditions
'Bei dieser Witterung...' (In these weather conditions...) is a standard opening for a sentence explaining why something was delayed or changed. It implies that the atmospheric state made an action difficult.

Wegen der ungünstigen Witterung musste das Fußballspiel abgesagt werden.

Another crucial usage involves the verb aussetzen (to expose). When an object is 'der Witterung ausgesetzt' (exposed to the elements), it is being subjected to the wear and tear of nature. This is a very common phrase in architecture, gardening, and car maintenance. It highlights the destructive or transformative power of the atmosphere.

Das Holz muss gestrichen werden, damit es gegen Witterung geschützt ist.

Metaphorical Scent
In more advanced German, you can use the hunting metaphor. 'Witterung aufnehmen' can mean to sense that something is about to happen, like a business opportunity or a coming danger. It's like 'smelling' a change in the air.

Der Investor hat Witterung für ein gutes Geschäft aufgenommen.

Finally, consider the compound words. Witterungsbericht is a weather report, but more detailed than a Wetterbericht. Witterungsumschwung is a sudden change in the general weather pattern. Using these compounds shows a high level of linguistic sophistication.

You will encounter Witterung in several specific domains in Germany. First and foremost is the agricultural sector. Farmers don't just talk about the sun today; they talk about the Witterungsverlauf (the course of the weather) over the growing season. If you visit a farm or read an agricultural magazine, this word will appear in almost every article about crop yields.

Construction and Architecture
When buying paint, wood stain, or roof tiles at a 'Baumarkt' (hardware store), you will see labels like 'witterungsbeständig' (weather-resistant). Architects discuss how the 'Witterung' will age a building's facade over decades.

Diese Gartenmöbel sind extrem witterungsbeständig.

In the news, specifically in meteorological segments that look at long-term trends or historical comparisons, Witterung is preferred. If a news anchor says, 'Die Witterung im letzten Monat war außergewöhnlich trocken,' they are characterizing the entire month's atmospheric state, not just a few sunny days.

Der Hund hat die Witterung des Fuchses verloren.

Historical and Literary Context
In literature, authors use 'Witterung' to create atmosphere. A 'raue Witterung' (harsh weather) sets a much more serious and enduring tone than just saying it is raining. It suggests a mood that permeates the setting.

Lastly, in legal or insurance documents regarding property damage, 'Witterungsschäden' (weather-related damage) is the standard term. If a storm blows off your roof, the insurance adjuster will use this word in their official report. It is the language of professionals dealing with the elements.

The most frequent mistake learners make is using Witterung when they simply mean 'the weather today'. If you want to say 'The weather is nice today,' you should never say Die Witterung ist heute schön. This sounds overly robotic, like a textbook from the 19th century or a scientific report. Use Das Wetter ist heute schön for daily conversation.

Confusion with 'wittern'
The verb 'wittern' (to scent/to suspect) is related but used differently. Don't confuse 'Ich wittere Gefahr' (I sense danger) with the noun 'Witterung'. While you can 'Witterung aufnehmen', the verb 'wittern' is more common for the act of sensing something instinctively.

Falsch: Wie ist die Witterung morgen?
Richtig: Wie ist das Wetter morgen?

Another mistake is grammatical gender. Witterung is feminine (die), while Wetter is neuter (das). Because they are so similar in meaning, learners often default to das Witterung, which is incorrect. Always remember: die Witterung.

Falsch: Das Holz ist kaputt wegen dem Wetter.
Besser: Das Holz ist durch die Witterung verrottet.

Pluralization
In English, we often say 'weather conditions'. In German, you almost never use the plural 'Witterungen'. If you want to express plurality, use 'Witterungsverhältnisse' (weather conditions). Using 'die Witterungen' sounds very unnatural.

Finally, avoid using Witterung in the context of 'scent' for perfumes or flowers. For a pleasant perfume, use Duft. For a general smell, use Geruch. Witterung is specifically for the animal/hunting context where a scent is carried through the air to be detected by a nose.

Understanding the nuances between Witterung and its synonyms is key to B2/C1 level proficiency. The most common alternative is Wetter, but as discussed, Wetter is the everyday, short-term state of the atmosphere. Klima (climate) is the other extreme—it refers to statistical patterns over 30 years or more. Witterung sits right in the middle: the character of the weather over a few days, weeks, or a season.

Witterung vs. Wetter
'Wetter' is what you see when you look out the window. 'Witterung' is the atmospheric influence you feel or the pattern that affects nature/materials.
Witterung vs. Klima
'Klima' is long-term and abstract. 'Witterung' is specific to a certain period (e.g., 'the spring weather this year').

Das Wetter heute ist sonnig, aber die allgemeine Witterung der Woche war regnerisch.

In the context of 'scent', alternatives include Fährte (trail/track) and Spur (trace). While Witterung is the scent in the air, a Fährte is the scent left on the ground by an animal's paws. Hunters distinguish between 'Luftwitterung' (scent in the air) and 'Bodenfährte' (track on the ground).

Die Wetterlage über Europa bleibt stabil, was uns eine milde Witterung beschert.

Atmosphäre vs. Witterung
'Atmosphäre' usually refers to the physical layer of gases around the earth or the 'vibe' of a room. 'Witterung' is specifically the weather-related state of that atmosphere.

In technical reports, you might also see Exposition (exposure). A wall has a 'Witterungsexposition', meaning it is facing the side where rain and wind usually hit. This is more formal than simply saying the wall is 'draußen' (outside).

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The word 'wittern' (to scent) and 'Witterung' (scent) come from the idea that the 'weather' (wind) carries the smell to the nose.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ˈvɪtəʁʊŋ/
US /ˈvɪtəɹʊŋ/
The stress is on the first syllable: VIT-te-rung.
Rima con
Bitterung Fütterung Erschütterung Quittung Richtung Dichtung Lichtung Sichtung
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the 'W' like an English 'W' (liquid) instead of a 'V'.
  • Making the 'i' too long (like 'bee').
  • Swallowing the 'ung' ending too much.
  • Confusing the pronunciation with 'Witter' (male animal).
  • Over-pronouncing the 't' so it sounds like two distinct 't' sounds.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

Common in news and labels, easy to recognize once learned.

Escritura 4/5

Requires knowledge of genitive and compound word structures.

Expresión oral 4/5

Hard to remember to use instead of 'Wetter'.

Escucha 3/5

Distinctive sound, but can be confused with 'Witter' or 'wittern'.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

Wetter Luft Geruch Regen Sonne

Aprende después

Witterungsbeständig Verwitterung Wetterlage Klima Atmosphäre

Avanzado

Anpirschen Fährte Meteorologie Bauphysik

Gramática que debes saber

Feminine Nouns in -ung

Die Witterung, die Heizung, die Bildung. All are feminine.

Genitive with 'Wegen'

Wegen der schlechten Witterung (not 'wegen dem Wetter' in formal German).

Dative with 'Bei'

Bei guter Witterung.

Compound Noun Formation

Witterung + s + Beständigkeit = Witterungsbeständigkeit.

Prefix 'ver-' for processes

Verwittern (the process of being changed by Witterung).

Ejemplos por nivel

1

Das Wetter ist heute schön.

The weather is beautiful today.

A1 uses 'Wetter' instead of 'Witterung'.

2

Die Witterung ist kalt.

The weather conditions are cold.

Simple use of 'Witterung'.

3

Ich mag diese Witterung nicht.

I don't like these weather conditions.

Demonstrative pronoun 'diese'.

4

Die Witterung im Winter ist oft grau.

The weather in winter is often gray.

Prepositional phrase 'im Winter'.

5

Ist die Witterung gut für ein Picknick?

Are the weather conditions good for a picnic?

Question structure.

6

Wir warten auf bessere Witterung.

We are waiting for better weather conditions.

Comparative 'bessere'.

7

Die Witterung ändert sich.

The weather conditions are changing.

Reflexive verb 'sich ändern'.

8

Die Witterung ist heute trocken.

The weather conditions are dry today.

Adjective 'trocken'.

1

Bei guter Witterung findet das Fest draußen statt.

In good weather conditions, the festival will take place outside.

Preposition 'bei' + dative.

2

Die Witterung hat dem alten Haus geschadet.

The weather conditions have damaged the old house.

Perfect tense with 'haben'.

3

Diese Jacke schützt vor jeder Witterung.

This jacket protects against any weather.

Preposition 'vor' + dative.

4

Die Witterung in den Bergen ist gefährlich.

The weather conditions in the mountains are dangerous.

Adjective 'gefährlich'.

5

Morgen wird die Witterung besser sein.

Tomorrow the weather conditions will be better.

Future tense with 'werden'.

6

Wir brauchen warme Kleidung für diese Witterung.

We need warm clothes for these weather conditions.

Accusative case after 'für'.

7

Die Witterung war die ganze Woche schlecht.

The weather conditions were bad all week.

Präteritum 'war'.

8

Trotz der Witterung sind wir spazieren gegangen.

Despite the weather conditions, we went for a walk.

Genitive after 'trotz'.

1

Wegen der ungünstigen Witterung wurde der Flug gestrichen.

Because of the unfavorable weather conditions, the flight was canceled.

Passive voice 'wurde gestrichen'.

2

Das Holz ist der Witterung schutzlos ausgesetzt.

The wood is exposed to the elements without protection.

Phrase 'einer Sache ausgesetzt sein'.

3

Die Witterung beeinflusst das Wachstum der Pflanzen.

The weather conditions influence the growth of the plants.

Transitive verb 'beeinflussen'.

4

Wir müssen die Witterung der nächsten Tage abwarten.

We have to wait for the weather conditions of the next few days.

Genitive plural 'der nächsten Tage'.

5

Die feuchte Witterung begünstigt die Ausbreitung von Pilzen.

The damp weather conditions favor the spread of fungi.

Subject-verb agreement.

6

Durch die jahrelange Witterung ist die Farbe verblasst.

The color has faded due to years of weathering.

Preposition 'durch' + accusative.

7

Die Witterung spielt eine große Rolle in der Landwirtschaft.

Weather conditions play a major role in agriculture.

Idiom 'eine Rolle spielen'.

8

Er hat die Witterung der Gefahr frühzeitig aufgenommen.

He sensed the danger early on (picked up the scent).

Metaphorical use.

1

Die Witterungsverhältnisse erschwerten die Rettungsarbeiten erheblich.

The weather conditions significantly hampered the rescue efforts.

Compound noun 'Witterungsverhältnisse'.

2

Das Material ist für extreme Witterung ausgelegt.

The material is designed for extreme weather.

Participle 'ausgelegt'.

3

Die Witterung schlug plötzlich von sonnig auf stürmisch um.

The weather conditions suddenly changed from sunny to stormy.

Separable verb 'umschlagen'.

4

Jäger müssen immer gegen die Witterung anpirschen.

Hunters must always stalk against the wind (scent).

Specialized hunting vocabulary.

5

Die Witterung im April ist bekanntlich sehr wechselhaft.

The weather conditions in April are notoriously very changeable.

Adverb 'bekanntlich'.

6

Es ist wichtig, die Witterung bei der Planung zu berücksichtigen.

It is important to consider the weather conditions during planning.

Infinitive with 'zu'.

7

Die Witterungsschäden am Dach müssen repariert werden.

The weather damage on the roof must be repaired.

Compound noun 'Witterungsschäden'.

8

Der Hund verlor plötzlich die Witterung des Rehs.

The dog suddenly lost the scent of the deer.

Genitive object.

1

Die anhaltend milde Witterung führte zu einer frühen Blüte.

The persistently mild weather conditions led to an early bloom.

Participle 'anhaltend' as adjective.

2

Unter dem Einfluss der Witterung korrodiert das Metall.

Under the influence of weathering, the metal corrodes.

Prepositional phrase 'unter dem Einfluss'.

3

Die Witterung bestimmt maßgeblich die Qualität des Weinjahrgangs.

The weather conditions significantly determine the quality of the wine vintage.

Adverb 'maßgeblich'.

4

Man muss die Witterung nutzen, solange sie stabil bleibt.

One must use the weather conditions as long as they remain stable.

Conjunction 'solange'.

5

Die Witterung auf dem Gipfel war mörderisch.

The weather conditions on the summit were murderous.

Metaphorical adjective 'mörderisch'.

6

Er hat die politische Witterung für Veränderungen erkannt.

He recognized the political 'scent' (atmosphere) for change.

Highly metaphorical use.

7

Die Fassade wurde durch spezielle Beschichtungen gegen Witterung immunisiert.

The facade was immunized against weathering by special coatings.

Passive voice with 'durch'.

8

Die Witterung des Wildes zu beachten, ist das A und O der Jagd.

Paying attention to the scent of the game is the be-all and end-all of hunting.

Idiom 'das A und O'.

1

Die Unwägbarkeiten der Witterung machen die Landwirtschaft zum Wagnis.

The unpredictabilities of the weather conditions make agriculture a gamble.

Abstract noun 'Unwägbarkeiten'.

2

In den Chroniken wird die außergewöhnliche Witterung des Jahres 1783 beschrieben.

The chronicles describe the extraordinary weather conditions of the year 1783.

Passive voice 'wird beschrieben'.

3

Die Witterung als gestaltende Kraft der Landschaft ist unverkennbar.

The weather as a shaping force of the landscape is unmistakable.

Apposition 'als gestaltende Kraft'.

4

Er besaß eine feine Witterung für gesellschaftliche Strömungen.

He possessed a fine 'nose' (scent) for social trends.

Abstract metaphorical use.

5

Die Witterungsempfindlichkeit bestimmter Baustoffe erfordert sorgfältige Planung.

The weather sensitivity of certain building materials requires careful planning.

Complex compound noun.

6

Trotz widrigster Witterung harrten die Demonstranten auf dem Platz aus.

Despite the most adverse weather conditions, the protesters persevered in the square.

Superlative 'widrigster'.

7

Die Witterung hinterlässt ihre Spuren in den Gesichtern der Seeleute.

The weather leaves its traces on the faces of the sailors.

Personification of 'Witterung'.

8

Die Witterung des Verrats lag bereits in der Luft.

The 'scent' of betrayal was already in the air.

Literary metaphor.

Colocaciones comunes

ungünstige Witterung
Witterung aufnehmen
der Witterung ausgesetzt
milde Witterung
feuchte Witterung
raue Witterung
beständige Witterung
Witterungseinflüsse
Witterungsbedingungen
Witterungsumschwung

Frases Comunes

Je nach Witterung

— Depending on the weather conditions.

Je nach Witterung findet das Training in der Halle oder draußen statt.

Bei jeder Witterung

— In all weather conditions / no matter the weather.

Die Post wird bei jeder Witterung zugestellt.

Gegen Witterung geschützt

— Protected against the elements.

Lagern Sie das Holz an einem gegen Witterung geschützten Ort.

Witterung bedingte Verzögerung

— Delay caused by weather conditions.

Es kam zu witterungsbedingten Verzögerungen im Bahnverkehr.

Die Witterung schlägt um

— The weather conditions are changing drastically.

Wir müssen zurück, die Witterung schlägt um.

Witterung für etwas haben

— To have a nose/sense for something (metaphorical).

Sie hat eine gute Witterung für neue Modetrends.

An die Witterung gewöhnt

— Used to the weather conditions.

Die Schafe sind an die raue Witterung gewöhnt.

Witterungssicher

— Weatherproof.

Das Gehäuse ist witterungssicher.

Witterungsbedingt

— Due to weather.

Witterungsbedingt ist die Straße gesperrt.

Witterungsverlauf

— The course of the weather.

Der Witterungsverlauf des Sommers war sehr trocken.

Se confunde a menudo con

Witterung vs Wetter

Wetter is the current state; Witterung is the character/impact over time.

Witterung vs Klima

Klima is long-term (years); Witterung is short-to-medium term (days/weeks).

Witterung vs Geruch

Geruch is general smell; Witterung is scent in the air (animal context).

Modismos y expresiones

"Witterung aufnehmen"

— To sense or smell something coming, literally for animals or metaphorically for people sensing opportunities.

Der Investor nahm Witterung für das neue Start-up auf.

Standard/Literary
"Gegen den Wind Witterung bekommen"

— To get wind of something (usually a secret or a plan).

Die Konkurrenz bekam Witterung von unseren Plänen.

Informal
"In der Witterung stehen"

— To be in a position where one's scent is carried to the prey (hunting term).

Der Jäger stand ungünstig in der Witterung.

Technical/Hunting
"Die Witterung verlieren"

— To lose the scent or the 'vibe' of a situation.

Die Ermittler verloren die Witterung des Täters.

Literary/Police
"Keine Witterung haben"

— To have no clue or sense about something.

Er hat gar keine Witterung für die Gefühle anderer.

Informal
"Feine Witterung besitzen"

— To have a very sensitive intuition.

Journalisten müssen eine feine Witterung besitzen.

Formal
"Witterung wittern"

— To double up the sense of 'sensing a scent' (redundant but used for emphasis).

Ich wittere hier eine schlechte Witterung.

Informal
"Der Witterung trotzen"

— To defy the elements/weather.

Die alte Eiche trotzt seit Jahrhunderten der Witterung.

Literary
"Witterung fassen"

— Similar to 'aufnehmen', to catch the scent.

Der Hund fasste endlich Witterung.

Standard
"Die Witterung umschmeichelt jemanden"

— The air/scent is pleasant around someone (poetic).

Die milde Witterung umschmeichelte ihre Wangen.

Poetic

Fácil de confundir

Witterung vs Witter

Sounds similar.

Witter is an old word for a male sheep or ram; Witterung is weather/scent.

Der Witter steht auf der Weide.

Witterung vs wittern

Verb form.

Wittern is the action of smelling or sensing; Witterung is the noun.

Ich wittere Morgenluft.

Witterung vs Verwitterung

Related process.

Verwitterung is the geological/physical process of erosion; Witterung is the state of the weather.

Die Verwitterung des Gesteins dauert ewig.

Witterung vs Witterungsbedingungen

Synonym.

Just a more formal, plural-sounding version of Witterung.

Die Witterungsbedingungen sind optimal.

Witterung vs Witterungsschutz

Compound.

Specifically refers to the protection against weather, not the weather itself.

Wir brauchen einen besseren Witterungsschutz.

Patrones de oraciones

A2

Die Witterung ist [Adjektiv].

Die Witterung ist feucht.

B1

Wegen der [Adjektiv] Witterung [Verb]...

Wegen der schlechten Witterung warten wir.

B1

Etwas ist der Witterung ausgesetzt.

Das Fahrrad ist der Witterung ausgesetzt.

B2

Jemand nimmt Witterung von etwas auf.

Der Hund nimmt Witterung auf.

B2

Bei [Adjektiv] Witterung findet etwas statt.

Bei guter Witterung findet das Konzert statt.

C1

Die Witterung hinterlässt Spuren an [Dativ].

Die Witterung hinterlässt Spuren an der Fassade.

C1

Witterungsbedingt kommt es zu [Dativ].

Witterungsbedingt kommt es zu Ausfällen.

C2

Trotz [Superlativ] Witterung [Verb]...

Trotz widrigster Witterung kämpften sie weiter.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

Wetter
Witterungsverhältnisse
Witterungsbedingungen
Verwitterung

Verbos

wittern
verwittern
bewittern

Adjetivos

witterungsbeständig
witterungsanfällig
witterungsbedingt

Relacionado

Klima
Atmosphäre
Luft
Geruch
Duft

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Common in news, technical, and agricultural contexts. Rare in daily small talk.

Errores comunes
  • Das Witterung ist gut. Die Witterung ist gut.

    Witterung is feminine because it ends in -ung.

  • Wie ist die Witterung heute? Wie ist das Wetter heute?

    Witterung is too formal for a simple daily question about the weather.

  • Ich mag den Witterung von Blumen. Ich mag den Duft von Blumen.

    Witterung is for animals/hunting scent, not pleasant flower smells.

  • Wegen dem Witterung... Wegen der Witterung...

    In formal German, 'wegen' requires the genitive case.

  • Die Witterungen sind schlecht. Die Witterungsverhältnisse sind schlecht.

    The plural 'Witterungen' is rarely used; use the compound noun instead.

Consejos

Focus on the '-ung'

Whenever you see a word ending in -ung, immediately associate it with the feminine gender 'die'. This rule has very few exceptions and will help you with 'Witterung'.

Construction Context

If you are talking about building a house or DIY projects, use 'Witterung'. It shows you understand that the environment acts on materials.

The 'Nose' Metaphor

Remember 'Witterung aufnehmen' as 'picking up the scent'. It's a great way to describe intuition in a professional setting.

Wetter vs. Witterung

A quick rhyme to remember that Witterung implies a duration.

Compound Power

Learn 'witterungsbedingt'. It's a single word that replaces 'due to weather conditions'—very efficient in writing.

Nature Connection

Germans love the forest. Understanding 'Witterung' in a hunting/nature context connects you to a deep part of German cultural history.

News Listening

Listen to the 'Wetterbericht' on Tagesschau. They will often use 'Witterung' when summarizing the past week.

Genitive Practice

Use 'Witterung' to practice your genitive: 'Trotz der rauen Witterung...'.

Sound Natural

Say 'Bei jeder Witterung' when you want to sound committed to a plan, like a true German hiker.

Verwitterung

Learn the verb 'verwittern' alongside the noun. It helps you talk about history and old buildings.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'Weather-ing'. Witterung is the 'Weather-ing' conditions that affect a building or the 'Weather-carried' scent that a dog smells.

Asociación visual

Imagine an old stone statue in the rain (weathering) or a dog with its nose in the air (scent). Both are 'Witterung'.

Word Web

Weather Scent Erosion Conditions Atmosphere Hunting Construction Nature

Desafío

Try to use 'Witterung' in a sentence about your favorite outdoor hobby. Does the 'Witterung' affect your hobby?

Origen de la palabra

Derived from the Middle High German word 'weterunge', which stems from 'weter' (weather).

Significado original: Originally referred to the state of the weather or the process of exposing something to the air.

Germanic.

Contexto cultural

No specific sensitivities, but be careful using the hunting meaning around animal rights activists as it is a term of the hunt.

English speakers often use 'weather conditions' or 'the elements'. 'Witterung' is the direct equivalent of these more complex English phrases.

Used frequently in the Brothers Grimm fairy tales regarding hunting. Common in German weather forecasting (DWD - Deutscher Wetterdienst). Appears in technical DIN standards for construction.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Construction

  • Witterungsbeständiges Material
  • Schutz gegen Witterung
  • Witterungsschäden am Bau
  • Der Witterung ausgesetzt

Agriculture

  • Günstige Witterung für die Ernte
  • Witterungsverlauf des Jahres
  • Witterungsbedingte Ernteausfälle
  • Die Witterung beobachten

Hunting

  • Witterung aufnehmen
  • In der Witterung stehen
  • Die Witterung des Wildes
  • Gegen die Witterung gehen

Travel/Transport

  • Witterungsbedingte Verspätungen
  • Bei jeder Witterung
  • Wegen schlechter Witterung
  • Witterungsbericht für Reisende

Nature/Science

  • Prozess der Verwitterung
  • Einfluss der Witterung
  • Raue Witterung im Gebirge
  • Milde Witterung im Frühjahr

Inicios de conversación

"Glaubst du, dass die Witterung dieses Jahr gut für den Wein wird?"

"Ist dein Auto eigentlich gegen extreme Witterung geschützt?"

"Hast du schon mal Witterung von einer großen Veränderung in deiner Firma aufgenommen?"

"Was machst du am liebsten, wenn die Witterung draußen so richtig ungemütlich ist?"

"Denkst du, dass die Witterung in Deutschland immer extremer wird?"

Temas para diario

Beschreibe, wie die Witterung in deiner Heimatstadt die Gebäude über die Jahre verändert hat.

Hast du jemals 'Witterung' von einer Gefahr aufgenommen, bevor sie eingetreten ist? Erzähle die Geschichte.

Welche Art von Witterung ist für dich am inspirierendsten zum Schreiben oder Nachdenken?

Diskutiere die Bedeutung von witterungsbeständiger Kleidung für dein tägliches Leben.

Wie beeinflusst die Witterung deine Stimmung im Vergleich zum bloßen täglichen Wetter?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, that would sound very strange. For perfume, use 'Duft' (pleasant) or 'Geruch' (general). Witterung is specifically for scent in the air related to animals or hunting.

Think of Wetter as 'what is happening now' and Witterung as 'the weather conditions over a few days and their effect'. Wetter is for your plans; Witterung is for the impact on the world.

It is common in specific areas: news, construction, agriculture, and hunting. In everyday conversation, Germans usually say 'Wetter'.

You can say 'witterungsbeständig' or 'wetterfest'. 'Witterungsbeständig' sounds a bit more technical and high-quality.

Nouns ending in '-ung' in German are almost always feminine. Examples: die Heizung, die Übung, die Witterung.

Yes, 'die Witterung des Wildes' refers to the scent that a wild animal gives off, which a hunter or a dog can detect.

Yes, but it is rarely used. Usually, Germans use the compound 'Witterungsverhältnisse' if they want to talk about 'conditions' in the plural.

It means to sense that something is about to happen, like an intuitive 'smelling' of a situation or opportunity.

Yes, in meteorology to describe a weather period and in geology (as Verwitterung) to describe erosion.

No. Climate is 'Klima' and refers to decades. Witterung refers to days, weeks, or a single season.

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence using 'Witterung' to explain why a football match was canceled.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The old statue is exposed to the elements.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain the difference between 'Wetter' and 'Witterung' in German.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a short weather report for a week using the word 'Witterung'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'Witterung aufnehmen' in a metaphorical sentence about a job interview.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe a building that has been damaged by 'Witterung'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence with 'witterungsbeständig'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Depending on the weather conditions, we will go hiking.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'wegen der ungünstigen Witterung' in a formal email.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe a dog hunting an animal using the word 'Witterung'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about 'milde Witterung' in winter.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The jacket protects against any weather.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence with 'Witterungsumschwung'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain why 'Witterung' is important for farmers.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'The hunter lost the scent of the deer.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'Witterungsverhältnisse' in a sentence about a traffic jam.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about how 'Witterung' affects wood.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'In all weather conditions, the post is delivered.'

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence with 'witterungsbedingt'.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe the 'Witterung' in your city during autumn.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe the current 'Witterung' in your area using at least three adjectives.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain why you would choose 'witterungsbeständige' furniture for your garden.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Tell a short story about a time you were 'der Witterung ausgesetzt'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss how 'Witterung' affects your mood.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Act as a news anchor giving a short 'Witterungsbericht'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain to a child why a dog is sniffing the air using the word 'Witterung'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about the 'Witterung' in your favorite vacation spot.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss the impact of 'Witterung' on agriculture in your country.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain the phrase 'Bei jeder Witterung' and give an example.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe how an old castle might look after centuries of 'Witterung'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about a 'Witterungsumschwung' you experienced while hiking.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss the importance of 'Witterungsschutz' for outdoor equipment.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain the difference between 'Duft' and 'Witterung'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'witterungsbedingte' problems in public transport.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe a 'raue Witterung' scenario.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain what 'Witterung aufnehmen' means metaphorically.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about the 'milde Witterung' and its effect on nature.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss how 'Witterung' is used in construction.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe the 'Witterung' during a famous historical event.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Give a tip on how to protect things against 'Witterung'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to a weather report and identify if they use 'Wetter' or 'Witterung'.

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

Listen to a hunter describing his day and note how he uses 'Witterung'.

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

Identify the word 'Witterung' in a fast-paced news segment about agriculture.

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

Listen to a DIY tutorial about wood care and identify 'witterungsbeständig'.

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

Listen to a train announcement about 'witterungsbedingte Störungen'.

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

Identify the context of 'Witterung' (weather vs scent) in a short audio clip.

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

Listen to a poem and identify the metaphorical use of 'Witterung'.

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

Listen to an interview with a farmer and note the word 'Witterungsverlauf'.

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

Identify the adjective used with 'Witterung' in a conversation.

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

Listen to a construction site briefing and identify 'Witterungsschutz'.

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

Listen to a child talking about his dog and identify 'Witterung'.

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

Identify the difference in tone when a speaker uses 'Wetter' vs 'Witterung'.

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

Listen to a report on climate change and identify 'Witterung'.

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

Identify 'Witterungsumschwung' in a hiking podcast.

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

Listen for 'Witterung' in a story about an old statue.

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

Das Witterung ist heute sehr schön.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Das Wetter ist heute sehr schön. (or 'Die Witterung')

Witterung is feminine and too formal for daily talk.

error correction

Wegen dem Witterung wurde der Flug gestrichen.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Wegen der Witterung wurde der Flug gestrichen.

'Wegen' needs the genitive case.

error correction

Der Hund hat den Witterung aufgenommen.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Der Hund hat die Witterung aufgenommen.

Witterung is feminine.

error correction

Diese Jacke ist wetterungsbeständig.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Diese Jacke ist witterungsbeständig.

Spelling: it is 'Witterung', not 'Wetterung'.

error correction

Ich mag die Witterung von diesem Parfüm.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Ich mag den Duft von diesem Parfüm.

Witterung is not for perfume.

error correction

Die Witterungen sind diesen Monat extrem.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Die Witterungsverhältnisse sind diesen Monat extrem.

Plural 'Witterungen' is unnatural.

error correction

Bei gute Witterung gehen wir raus.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Bei guter Witterung gehen wir raus.

Dative feminine ending '-er'.

error correction

Das Holz ist der Witterung aussetzen.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Das Holz ist der Witterung ausgesetzt.

Needs the past participle 'ausgesetzt'.

error correction

Der Witterungsverlauf ist das Klima.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Der Witterungsverlauf ist nicht das Klima.

Witterung is short-term; Klima is long-term.

error correction

Er hat Witterung für Gefahr aufgenimmt.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Er hat Witterung für Gefahr aufgenommen.

Irregular past participle 'aufgenommen'.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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