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A1 verb #6,000 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

auspacken

Top 6,000

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces auspacken en 30 secondes

Explication auspacken in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'auspacken' is one of the first verbs you learn for describing daily routines and special events. You will primarily use it to talk about opening gifts or unpacking a suitcase after a trip. The most important thing to remember at this stage is that it is a 'separable verb.' This means when you say 'I unpack the gift,' the 'aus' goes to the end: 'Ich packe das Geschenk aus.' You should focus on simple sentences in the present tense. You might also see it in very simple instructions, like 'Bitte packen Sie das Buch aus.' At this level, don't worry about figurative meanings; just focus on the physical act of taking things out of a bag or box. It is a very useful word for basic communication about your belongings and activities at home or during travel. You will likely use it alongside nouns like 'Koffer' (suitcase), 'Geschenk' (gift), and 'Tasche' (bag). Practice the conjugation: ich packe aus, du packst aus, er/sie/es packt aus. Remember, the 'aus' is like a little tail that follows the sentence!

At the A2 level, you expand your use of 'auspacken' to include the past tense (Perfekt). This is vital for telling stories about what you did. For example, 'Gestern habe ich meine Umzugskartons ausgepackt' (Yesterday I unpacked my moving boxes). Notice how the 'ge' goes in the middle: 'aus-ge-packt.' You also start to use it in more varied contexts, such as unpacking groceries (Einkäufe auspacken) or school supplies. You should become comfortable with the word order in sentences with modal verbs, where 'auspacken' stays together at the end: 'Ich muss meinen Koffer auspacken.' You might also start to notice the word in more public settings, like at the airport security or in a shop. The focus at A2 is on building fluency with the separable nature of the verb in different tenses and with common modal verbs like 'müssen' (must) and 'wollen' (want). You are moving from simple labels to describing completed actions and intentions.

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By B1, you should be confident with the grammar of 'auspacken' and start exploring its more metaphorical uses. In B1, you often discuss topics like 'crime and punishment' or 'media and celebrities.' Here, 'auspacken' often appears in the sense of 'to spill the beans' or 'to talk to the police.' For example, 'Der Dieb hat bei der Polizei ausgepackt' (The thief confessed/talked to the police). You will also handle more complex sentence structures, such as subordinate clauses where the verb doesn't separate: 'Ich bin müde, weil ich den ganzen Tag Koffer ausgepackt habe.' You should also be able to use the word in the 'Präteritum' (written past tense) for storytelling: 'Er packte das Geschenk vorsichtig aus.' At this level, you are expected to understand the difference between 'auspacken' and similar verbs like 'aufmachen' (to open) or 'auswickeln' (to unwrap). You use the word not just to describe chores, but to add flavor to your narratives and discussions about secrets or revelations.

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At the B2 level, 'auspacken' becomes a tool for more nuanced expression. You will encounter it frequently in newspaper articles and news reports, especially in the context of investigative journalism or political scandals. Phrases like 'ein Insider packt aus' (an insider reveals all) are common. You should also be able to use the noun form 'das Auspacken' (the unpacking) and understand its role in compound words. Your understanding of the verb's register should be sharp—knowing that 'auspacken' is slightly more colloquial than 'aussagen' (to testify) or 'offenbaren' (to reveal). You might also use it in professional contexts, such as discussing logistics or supply chain management where 'unboxing' or 'unpacking' goods is a specific step in a process. You should be able to use the verb in all tenses, including the subjunctive (Konjunktiv II) for hypothetical situations: 'Wenn ich Zeit hätte, würde ich die Kartons sofort auspacken.' Your vocabulary is now rich enough to choose 'auspacken' specifically when the context involves bringing something hidden into the light.

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At the C1 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'auspacken.' You understand its subtle connotations in various contexts. You can use it fluently in complex debates about whistleblowing and ethics. You might discuss the 'Psychologie des Auspackens' (the psychology of unpacking/revealing). You are also familiar with idiomatic expressions and can use the verb to add a specific 'flavor' to your speech. For instance, using 'auspacken' to describe someone finally venting their frustrations: 'Sie hat gestern mal so richtig ausgepackt und uns gesagt, was sie wirklich denkt.' You also recognize the word in literature and high-level journalism, where it might be used with irony or specific stylistic intent. Your ability to distinguish it from 'entpacken' (technical), 'enthüllen' (formal/grand), and 'exhumieren' (scientific/literal) is precise. You can handle the verb in passive constructions: 'Die Geschenke wurden bereits ausgepackt.' At this level, the verb is no longer a 'grammar point' to remember, but a versatile tool in your extensive linguistic toolkit.

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At the C2 level, your mastery of 'auspacken' is complete. You can appreciate and use the verb in its most abstract and stylistic forms. You might encounter it in philosophical texts or highly sophisticated literature where 'unpacking' a concept or a historical event is discussed. You understand the etymological roots and how the prefix 'aus-' interacts with 'packen' to create a sense of 'completeness' in the action. You can use the verb with total grammatical accuracy in the most complex hypothetical and passive structures. You are also aware of regional variations or very specific slang where 'auspacken' might have niche meanings. You can write essays or give presentations where 'auspacken' is used as a central metaphor for discovery or transparency. For a C2 learner, 'auspacken' is a simple word that can be used with great sophistication to describe everything from the mundane opening of a parcel to the profound revelation of a life-changing truth. You move between these registers with ease, demonstrating a deep cultural and linguistic intuition.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

auspacken en 30 secondes

Primary meaning: To unpack or unwrap physical items.
Grammar: Separable verb (aus-packen), uses 'haben' as auxiliary.
Figurative meaning: To confess, reveal secrets, or 'spill the beans'.
Common contexts: Travel, gifts, groceries, moving house, and crime investigations.

The German verb auspacken is a fundamental word that every learner encounters early in their journey. At its core, it describes the physical act of removing something from a container, wrapping, or package. Whether you are returning from a long vacation and need to empty your suitcase, or it is your birthday and you are surrounded by wrapped gifts, auspacken is the action you are performing. It is a separable verb, meaning the prefix aus- often migrates to the end of the sentence, which is a key grammatical feature to master.

Physical Unboxing: This is the most common usage. It applies to gifts (Geschenke), suitcases (Koffer), bags (Taschen), and moving boxes (Umzugskartons). In the modern digital age, it is also the direct translation for 'unboxing' videos seen on social media platforms.

Nach dem Urlaub muss ich sofort meinen Koffer auspacken.

Beyond the physical, auspacken has a very common figurative meaning. In a conversational or journalistic context, it means 'to spill the beans' or 'to reveal a secret.' If someone has been keeping a secret or if a whistleblower decides to tell the truth about a scandal, Germans say they are 'unpacking' the truth. This transition from a physical removal of a cover to a metaphorical removal of secrecy is a beautiful example of how German logic extends into abstract concepts. You might hear this in crime dramas when a witness finally decides to talk to the police.

Figurative Revelation: Used when someone discloses confidential information or confesses. It implies a sense of relief or a strategic decision to stop hiding the truth.

In daily life, you will use this word constantly. From the mundane task of 'unpacking groceries' (Einkäufe auspacken) to the excitement of 'unpacking a new phone' (ein neues Handy auspacken). It is a high-frequency verb because it marks the transition from something being hidden or stored to something being accessible and ready for use. Understanding the nuances of auspacken helps you navigate both domestic chores and complex social narratives where hidden truths come to light.

Der Zeuge hat endlich vor Gericht ausgepackt.

Technical Logistics: In shipping and receiving, 'auspacken' is the standard term for depalletizing or removing protective layers from industrial goods.

Finally, consider the emotional weight. Unpacking a suitcase after a wonderful trip can be bittersweet, while unpacking boxes in a new home represents a fresh start. The verb carries these contextual emotions with it. In German culture, where order (Ordnung) is often valued, the act of auspacken is the first step toward establishing order in a new environment or situation. It is not just about the items; it is about the transition of the space.

Mastering auspacken requires an understanding of its identity as a separable prefix verb (trennbares Verb). This is one of the most distinctive features of German grammar. In a simple main clause in the present tense, the prefix aus- detaches from the base verb packen and flies to the very end of the sentence. This creates a 'sentence bracket' (Satzklammer) that keeps the listener waiting for the final piece of information to complete the meaning of the action.

Ich packe meine Sachen aus.

Present Tense Construction: Subject + Conjugated Verb (packen) + Object + Prefix (aus). Example: 'Du packst das Geschenk aus.'

When moving into the past tense, specifically the Perfekt (which is used for almost all spoken communication), the prefix and the base verb rejoin, but they are separated by the syllable -ge-. Because auspacken is a regular verb, it uses the auxiliary verb haben. The structure becomes ausgepackt. This is a crucial distinction from non-separable verbs where the 'ge' would come at the beginning.

Wir haben gestern alle Umzugskartons ausgepackt.

For more advanced usage, consider the imperative form. When you want to tell someone to 'unpack!', you say 'Pack aus!' or more formally 'Packen Sie aus!'. If you are using modal verbs (like müssen, können, or wollen), the verb auspacken stays together in its infinitive form at the end of the sentence. This is often easier for English speakers because it mirrors the English word order more closely.

Modal Verb Usage: Subject + Modal Verb + Object + auspacken (Infinitive). Example: 'Ich muss meine Tasche auspacken.'

Finally, don't forget the reflexive usage or the usage with 'lassen'. If you say 'Ich lasse meinen Koffer auspacken,' you are saying you are having someone else unpack it for you—a luxury! In summary, while the physical action of auspacken is simple, the grammatical 'dance' of its prefix requires practice to ensure you place the 'aus' in the correct position depending on the tense and sentence structure.

Könntest du bitte die Einkäufe auspacken?

In a German-speaking environment, you will hear auspacken in a variety of vivid and practical settings. One of the most common places is the home, especially during transition periods. After a grocery run to a supermarket like Aldi or Rewe, a family member might shout, 'Wer hilft mir, die Einkäufe auszupacken?' (Who is helping me unpack the groceries?). Here, the word is synonymous with the domestic chore of organizing the pantry.

Family Traditions: During 'Bescherung' (the giving of Christmas gifts on Dec 24th), the word 'auspacken' is the star of the evening. Children wait impatiently for the signal to finally 'auspacken' their presents.

Travel is another major context. At a hotel check-in or upon arriving at a vacation rental (Ferienwohnung), the first activity is always Koffer auspacken. Conversely, at security checkpoints in airports (Flughafen), security officers might ask you to 'packen Sie bitte Ihren Laptop aus' (Please unpack/take out your laptop). Note how in this context, it specifically means to remove an item from a bag for inspection.

Bei der Sicherheitskontrolle musste ich alles auspacken.

In the workplace, auspacken is heard when new equipment arrives. If a company orders new computers, the IT department will spend the morning auspackend. However, you might also hear it in a more tense office setting. If there is a suspicion of corporate misconduct, a colleague might whisper, 'Ich glaube, er wird bald gegenüber dem Chef auspacken' (I think he will soon spill the beans to the boss). This colloquial use is very common in office politics and gossip.

Lastly, in the news and media, auspacken is a favorite headline verb for tabloid newspapers like 'Bild'. Whenever a celebrity's ex-partner gives a 'tell-all' interview, the headline will almost certainly include the phrase 'Jetzt packt sie aus!' (Now she's spilling everything!). This reinforces the verb's dual nature: it's as much about revealing the hidden contents of a box as it is about revealing the hidden contents of a person's mind or history.

Die Zeitung schreibt: 'Der Insider packt aus!'

Social Media: On YouTube, 'Unboxing' is often translated as 'Auspack-Video', showing that the verb is adapting to modern digital trends.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make with auspacken is treating it as an inseparable verb. Because 'unpack' in English is a single unit, learners often forget to move the aus- to the end of the sentence. They might say *Ich auspacke das Geschenk*, which sounds very broken to a native ear. The correct form must always be Ich packe das Geschenk aus. This 'sentence bracket' is non-negotiable in standard German.

The 'Aus' Trap: Forgetting the prefix at the end. Without 'aus', the verb becomes 'packen' (to pack), which means the exact opposite of what you intended!

Falsch: Ich auspacke den Koffer.
Richtig: Ich packe den Koffer aus.

Another common confusion arises between auspacken and aufmachen. While both involve opening something, aufmachen is more general ('to open') and focuses on the lid or the seal. Auspacken focuses on removing the contents. You aufmachen a door or a window, but you auspacken a parcel. If you say you are 'auspacking' a window, people will look at you very confused! Similarly, entpacken is usually reserved for digital files (unzipping a .zip file), so don't use it for your laundry.

In the past tense, learners often forget the -ge- or place it incorrectly. Remember that for separable verbs, the -ge- is sandwiched between the prefix and the root: aus-ge-packt. Avoid saying *geauspackt* or *ausgepacken*. Consistency in using the participle form with the auxiliary 'haben' is key to sounding natural. Also, be careful with the preposition 'aus'. You unpack things aus a bag (Ich packe das Buch aus der Tasche aus). The double 'aus' can feel redundant to English speakers, but it is grammatically necessary.

Preposition Overlap: Using 'von' instead of 'aus' when saying where you are unpacking from. Always use 'aus' for containers.

Finally, watch out for the figurative usage. While 'auspacken' means 'to spill the beans', it is somewhat informal. In a very formal legal document, you might use 'aussagen' (to testify). Using 'auspacken' in a high-court setting might sound a bit too much like a detective novel. However, in daily conversation and journalism, it is perfectly acceptable. Just ensure you aren't using it for every type of revelation—only those that feel like a 'hidden' truth is being brought out into the open.

To truly enrich your German vocabulary, it's helpful to see how auspacken compares to its neighbors. The most direct synonym for the physical act is auswickeln. While auspacken is general, auswickeln specifically implies that something is wrapped in paper, foil, or cloth. You auswickeln a piece of candy or a bandage. If the object is wrapped tightly, auswickeln is the more precise choice.

auswickeln vs. auspacken: Use 'auswickeln' for things wrapped in layers (like a mummy or a candy). Use 'auspacken' for things in boxes or bags.

Das Kind wickelt das Bonbon aus.

Another alternative is entpacken. As mentioned previously, this is almost exclusively used in the world of computing. You wouldn't 'entpacken' your suitcase unless you were a robot! However, if you are talking about ZIP files or software packages, entpacken is the technical term you need. Then there is leeren (to empty). If your focus is on making the container empty rather than looking at the items inside, leeren is better. 'Ich leere den Koffer' focuses on the suitcase becoming empty; 'Ich packe den Koffer aus' focuses on the items coming out.

entpacken: Digital context: Unzipping files. Example: 'Die Datei muss zuerst entpackt werden.'
leeren: Focus on the container. Example: 'Bitte leere den Mülleimer.'

When it comes to the figurative meaning (revealing secrets), alternatives include gestehen (to confess) and offenbaren (to reveal/manifest). Gestehen is used for crimes or feelings ('Ich gestehe meine Liebe'). Offenbaren is more poetic or religious ('Gott offenbart sich'). Auspacken remains the most colloquial and 'gritty' way to describe someone telling the whole truth after a period of silence. It suggests that there was a 'package' of secrets that has finally been opened.

Lastly, consider herausholen (to take out). This is a very simple, literal alternative. If you just want to say you are taking a book out of your bag, 'Ich hole das Buch heraus' is often more natural than 'Ich packe das Buch aus,' unless the book was specifically wrapped as a gift. Understanding these subtle boundaries between 'taking out,' 'unwrapping,' and 'unpacking' will make your German sound much more sophisticated and precise.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word 'packen' is also related to the English 'pack'. The figurative use of 'auspacken' as 'to confess' became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, mirroring the idea of opening a hidden bundle of information.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈaʊ̯sˌpakn̩/

US /ˈaʊ̯sˌpɑkən/

Primary stress is on the prefix 'aus'. Secondary stress on the root 'pak'.

Rime avec

backen kacken Lacken Nacken Sacken Zacken knacken packen

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'aus' like 'os'.
Missing the 'n' at the end (saying 'auspack').
Putting the stress on the second syllable.
Softening the 'p' to a 'b' sound.
Not separating the prefix in speech.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize, but figurative meanings in news can be tricky.

Écriture 3/5

Requires correct placement of the separable prefix.

Expression orale 3/5

Separating the verb in real-time conversation takes practice.

Écoute 2/5

Clear pronunciation, but the 'aus' at the end is vital for meaning.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

packen einpacken das Paket der Koffer aus

Apprends ensuite

aufmachen schließen aussagen enthüllen entpacken

Avancé

offenbaren gestehen verheimlichen die Beichte der Whistleblower

Grammaire à connaître

Separable Verbs

Ich **packe** das Geschenk **aus**.

Perfekt Tense with Separable Verbs

Ich habe das Geschenk **ausgepackt**.

Infinitive with 'zu'

Es ist Zeit, die Koffer **auszupacken**.

Modal Verbs

Du musst die Tasche **auspacken**.

Subordinate Clauses

... weil ich das Paket **auspacke**.

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Exemples par niveau

Ich packe das Geschenk aus.

I am unpacking the gift.

Present tense, separable verb: 'aus' goes to the end.

Packst du deinen Koffer aus?

Are you unpacking your suitcase?

Question form: Verb (packst) comes first, prefix (aus) stays at the end.

Er packt die Tasche aus.

He is unpacking the bag.

Third person singular conjugation.

Wir packen die Pizza aus.

We are unpacking the pizza.

Plural 'wir' form.

Sie packt das Buch aus.

She is unpacking the book.

Direct object 'das Buch' in accusative.

Können Sie das Paket auspacken?

Can you (formal) unpack the parcel?

Modal verb 'können' keeps 'auspacken' together at the end.

Ich möchte mein Spielzeug auspacken.

I want to unpack my toy.

Modal verb 'möchte' (would like).

Pack bitte das Handy aus!

Please unpack the phone!

Imperative (command) form.

Ich habe gestern alle Geschenke ausgepackt.

I unpacked all the gifts yesterday.

Perfekt tense: 'ausgepackt'.

Wir müssen die Einkäufe auspacken.

We have to unpack the groceries.

Modal verb 'müssen'.

Hast du den Koffer schon ausgepackt?

Have you already unpacked the suitcase?

Perfekt tense question.

Sie packte die Kleidung langsam aus.

She unpacked the clothes slowly.

Präteritum (narrative past tense).

Könnt ihr bitte die Kartons auspacken?

Can you (plural) please unpack the boxes?

Modal verb 'können' with plural 'ihr'.

Ich helfe dir beim Auspacken.

I'll help you with the unpacking.

Noun form 'das Auspacken' (nominalization).

Nach der Reise packen wir alles aus.

After the trip, we unpack everything.

Time phrase 'Nach der Reise' starts the sentence.

Er wollte das neue Werkzeug sofort auspacken.

He wanted to unpack the new tool immediately.

Modal verb in past tense 'wollte'.

Der Zeuge packte endlich vor der Polizei aus.

The witness finally spilled the beans to the police.

Figurative use: revealing secrets.

Es ist wichtig, die Ware vorsichtig auszupacken.

It is important to unpack the goods carefully.

'zu' infinitive: 'auszupacken'.

Weil ich noch auspacken muss, kann ich nicht kommen.

Because I still have to unpack, I cannot come.

Subordinate clause with 'weil'.

Sie hat die ganze Wahrheit über den Vorfall ausgepackt.

She revealed the whole truth about the incident.

Figurative Perfekt tense.

Bevor wir essen, müssen wir die Picknicktasche auspacken.

Before we eat, we must unpack the picnic bag.

Conjunction 'bevor' with modal verb.

Ich freue mich darauf, die neuen Möbel auszupacken.

I am looking forward to unpacking the new furniture.

Prepositional object 'darauf' with 'zu' infinitive.

Er packte seine alten Schulsachen aus dem Keller aus.

He unpacked his old school things from the cellar.

Preposition 'aus' used with the verb 'auspacken'.

Wenn du jetzt auspackst, verzeihe ich dir.

If you confess now, I will forgive you.

Conditional 'wenn' clause, figurative.

Der Whistleblower hat brisante Details über die Firma ausgepackt.

The whistleblower revealed explosive details about the company.

Advanced vocabulary 'brisant' (explosive/volatile).

Nachdem die Waren ausgepackt worden waren, wurden sie kontrolliert.

After the goods had been unpacked, they were checked.

Passive voice in past perfect (Plusquamperfekt Passiv).

Er neigt dazu, bei Stress sofort über seine Probleme auszupacken.

He tends to immediately spill everything about his problems when stressed.

Phrase 'neigen zu' (to tend to).

Das Auspacken der Geschenke dauerte stundenlang.

The unpacking of the gifts lasted for hours.

Nominalized verb as the subject.

Man sollte die Elektronik erst bei Zimmertemperatur auspacken.

One should only unpack the electronics at room temperature.

Instruction with 'man' and 'sollte'.

Die Presse hofft, dass der Minister endlich auspackt.

The press hopes that the minister finally spills the beans.

Subordinate clause with 'dass'.

Wir haben die Dekoration für das Fest ausgepackt.

We unpacked the decorations for the festival.

Specific context: festive preparations.

Könnten Sie bitte die Instrumente vorsichtig auspacken?

Could you please unpack the instruments carefully?

Polite request with Konjunktiv II (könnten).

In seiner Autobiografie packt der Ex-Präsident über seine Amtszeit aus.

In his autobiography, the ex-president reveals all about his time in office.

Context of literature and public life.

Es gilt, die komplexen Ursachen der Krise erst einmal auszupacken.

It is necessary to first unpack the complex causes of the crisis.

Highly abstract/metaphorical use.

Hätte er früher ausgepackt, wäre der Schaden geringer gewesen.

Had he confessed earlier, the damage would have been less.

Irrealis/Counterfactual conditional (Konjunktiv II).

Das ungeduldige Auspacken führte zu einer Beschädigung der Ware.

The impatient unpacking led to damage of the goods.

Complex nominal phrase.

Sie packte ihre tiefsten Ängste und Sorgen vor ihm aus.

She laid out her deepest fears and worries before him.

Emotional figurative use.

Der Journalist weigerte sich, seine Quellen auszupacken.

The journalist refused to reveal his sources.

Note: Here 'auspacken' is used for information/sources.

Beim Auspacken der antiken Statuen war höchste Präzision gefragt.

Highest precision was required when unpacking the antique statues.

Professional/Scientific context.

Er hat endlich über die Hintergründe des Deals ausgepackt.

He finally revealed the background details of the deal.

Business context.

Die Dokumentation lässt Insider auspacken, die bisher geschwiegen haben.

The documentary lets insiders speak out who have remained silent until now.

Causative construction 'lassen' + infinitive.

In der literarischen Analyse müssen wir die Metaphorik des Textes auspacken.

In the literary analysis, we must unpack the imagery of the text.

Academic/Metaphorical use.

Sollte der Angeklagte auspacken, droht seinen Komplizen eine lange Haftstrafe.

Should the accused confess, his accomplices face a long prison sentence.

Inverted conditional clause (Sollte...).

Das akribische Auspacken der archäologischen Funde erforderte Monate.

The meticulous unpacking of the archaeological finds required months.

High-level vocabulary 'akribisch' (meticulous).

Man darf gespannt sein, wer als Nächstes über die Skandale auspackt.

One can be curious about who will reveal the scandals next.

Idiomatic 'Man darf gespannt sein'.

Er packte seine Argumente eines nach dem anderen präzise aus.

He laid out his arguments one by one with precision.

Rhetorical use.

Trotz der Geheimhaltungsvereinbarung packte der Ingenieur schließlich aus.

Despite the non-disclosure agreement, the engineer finally spoke out.

Concessive 'Trotz' with Genitive.

Das Auspacken der Wahrheit kann oft schmerzhafter sein als die Lüge.

Unpacking the truth can often be more painful than the lie.

Philosophical abstraction.

Collocations courantes

den Koffer auspacken

Geschenke auspacken

die Wahrheit auspacken

Einkäufe auspacken

Umzugskartons auspacken

über jemanden auspacken

vorsichtig auspacken

alles auspacken

vor der Polizei auspacken

sofort auspacken

Phrases Courantes

Lass uns auspacken.

— Let's unpack. Used after arriving somewhere.

Wir sind da! Lass uns auspacken.

Jetzt pack mal aus!

— Now tell me the truth! A demand for a secret.

Ich weiß, dass du was weißt. Jetzt pack mal aus!

Hast du schon ausgepackt?

— Have you unpacked yet? Common travel question.

Bist du fertig im Hotel? Hast du schon ausgepackt?

Alles muss raus aus dem Koffer.

— Everything must come out of the suitcase. Emphasizing the task.

Es ist so viel Kleidung, alles muss raus aus dem Koffer.

Er hat gegen ihn ausgepackt.

— He snitched/testified against him.

Im Prozess hat der Zeuge gegen den Chef ausgepackt.

Wir packen gemeinsam aus.

— We are unpacking together.

Nach dem Umzug packen wir gemeinsam aus.

Das Paket ist zum Auspacken da.

— The parcel is there to be unpacked.

Warte nicht, das Paket ist zum Auspacken da!

Muss ich das auspacken?

— Do I have to unpack this?

An der Kontrolle: Muss ich das auspacken?

Sie packt ihre Sorgen aus.

— She is sharing/venting her worries.

Abends packt sie oft ihre Sorgen bei mir aus.

Endlich ausgepackt!

— Finally unpacked! An exclamation of relief.

Nach drei Stunden: Endlich ausgepackt!

Souvent confondu avec

auspacken vs einpacken

Opposite meaning (to pack). Don't confuse the two!

auspacken vs aufmachen

To open. Use 'aufmachen' for doors/windows, 'auspacken' for contents of a box.

auspacken vs entpacken

To unzip/extract digital files. Don't use for physical luggage.

Expressions idiomatiques

"über jemanden/etwas auspacken"

— To reveal incriminating or secret information about someone/something.

Der ehemalige Mitarbeiter hat über die illegalen Praktiken ausgepackt.

colloquial

"vor der Polizei auspacken"

— To confess or give evidence to the police.

Nach langem Verhör hat er endlich ausgepackt.

neutral

"die Wahrheit auspacken"

— To tell the whole truth after hiding it.

Es ist Zeit, die Wahrheit auszupacken.

neutral

"seine sieben Sachen auspacken"

— To unpack one's few belongings (implies a simple lifestyle or small amount of stuff).

Er zog ein und packte seine sieben Sachen aus.

informal

"gegen die Komplizen auspacken"

— To snitch on one's accomplices.

Er hofft auf eine mildere Strafe, wenn er gegen die Komplizen auspackt.

colloquial

"die ganze Geschichte auspacken"

— To tell the entire story from beginning to end.

Komm, setz dich und pack die ganze Geschichte aus.

informal

"schonungslos auspacken"

— To reveal everything without holding back anything painful or embarrassing.

In seinem Buch packt er schonungslos über seine Kindheit aus.

literary/journalistic

"endlich auspacken"

— To finally reveal a secret that has been kept for a long time.

Nach zehn Jahren hat sie endlich ausgepackt.

neutral

"vor laufender Kamera auspacken"

— To confess or reveal something while being filmed.

Der Star packte vor laufender Kamera über seine Sucht aus.

journalistic

"auspacken oder einpacken"

— A play on words suggesting one must either reveal the truth or leave/give up (rare).

Du musst jetzt auspacken, sonst kannst du gleich wieder einpacken.

slang

Facile à confondre

auspacken vs abpacken

Similar prefix structure.

'Abpacken' means to portion out goods into smaller packages (industrial).

Die Maschine packt den Zucker ab.

auspacken vs umpacken

Related to packing.

'Umpacken' means to move things from one package to another.

Ich muss meine Sachen in einen kleineren Koffer umpacken.

auspacken vs auswickeln

Similar meaning.

'Auswickeln' is specifically for things wrapped in paper or cloth layers.

Sie wickelt das Baby aus der Decke aus.

auspacken vs verpacken

Common packing verb.

'Verpacken' is the act of putting something into a package (often for shipping).

Wir verpacken die Ware für den Versand.

auspacken vs zupacken

Similar sound.

'Zupacken' means to seize something or help out with hard work.

Er kann ordentlich zupacken.

Structures de phrases

Ich packe [Objekt] aus.

Ich packe den Koffer aus.

Ich habe [Objekt] ausgepackt.

Ich habe das Paket ausgepackt.

Ich muss [Objekt] auspacken.

Ich muss die Einkäufe auspacken.

Er packte über [Thema] aus.

Er packte über den Skandal aus.

Beim Auspacken von [Dativ]...

Beim Auspacken von Gläsern muss man vorsichtig sein.

Hätte ich [Objekt] doch nur ausgepackt!

Hätte ich das Geschenk doch nur früher ausgepackt!

Es gilt, [Abstrakte Idee] auszupacken.

Es gilt, die wahren Motive auszupacken.

Das [Adjektiv] Auspacken [Verb]...

Das akribische Auspacken der Geschichte dauerte Jahre.

Famille de mots

Noms

das Auspacken (the act of unpacking)

der Auspacker (someone who unpacks)

die Auspackung (rare, the revelation)

Verbes

packen (to pack)

einpacken (to pack in/wrap)

umpacken (to repack)

bepacken (to load up)

verpacken (to package)

Adjectifs

ausgepackt (unpacked)

unverpackt (unpacked/without packaging)

packend (gripping/exciting - different root meaning)

Apparenté

das Paket

die Verpackung

der Koffer

das Geschenk

die Enthüllung

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in daily speech, high in journalism.

Erreurs courantes

Ich auspacke das Geschenk. → Ich packe das Geschenk aus.
Separable verbs must be split in main clauses. The prefix 'aus' goes to the end.
Ich habe das Geschenk geauspackt. → Ich habe das Geschenk ausgepackt.
In the past participle of separable verbs, 'ge' goes between the prefix and the root.
Ich packe das Fenster aus. → Ich mache das Fenster auf.
'Auspacken' is for containers/wrapping. For windows/doors, use 'aufmachen' (to open).
Ich entpacke meinen Koffer. → Ich packe meinen Koffer aus.
'Entpacken' is for digital files. For luggage, use 'auspacken'.
Er hat über sein Geheimnis ausgepacken. → Er hat über sein Geheimnis ausgepackt.
The past participle ends in '-t' for this regular verb, not '-en'.

Astuces

Separable Verb Rule

Remember the 'Satzklammer' (sentence bracket). The 'aus' is the final word in a standard sentence. Don't let anything slip past it!

Gifts and Suitcases

These are your two 'anchor' contexts. If you think of 'auspacken', think of birthdays and hotels.

Stress the Prefix

In German separable verbs, the stress is almost always on the prefix. Say **AUS**-packen, not aus-**PACK**-en.

Spilling the Beans

Use 'auspacken' when someone reveals a secret that was 'contained' inside them. It's very expressive!

Perfekt Tense

Always 'aus-ge-packt'. The 'ge' is like a bridge between the prefix and the verb.

Christmas Eve

In Germany, the 'Auspacken' happens on the 24th of December. Use this word when discussing German holiday traditions.

Listen for the End

German listeners wait for the end of the sentence to know if someone is packing (packen) or unpacking (auspacken). Train your ear for that final 'aus'.

Opposites Attract

Learn 'einpacken' and 'auspacken' together as a pair. It makes them much easier to remember.

Crime Context

If you watch 'Tatort' (famous German crime show), you will hear suspects being told 'Pack endlich aus!'.

Digital vs. Physical

Avoid using 'auspacken' for ZIP files. Use 'entpacken'. It makes you sound more like a native speaker.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of an 'AUSSie' (Australian) 'PACK'ing his bag. When he arrives, he has to 'AUS-PACK' it. (AUS = OUT, PACKEN = PACK). Out-Pack!

Association visuelle

Imagine a giant wooden crate with a huge 'AUS' written on the side. As you pry it open, items fly 'OUT'.

Word Web

Koffer Geschenk Einkäufe auspacken Geheimnis Wahrheit Paket Umzug

Défi

Try to say 'Ich packe meine sieben Sachen aus' five times fast without forgetting the 'aus' at the end.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Middle High German 'packen' (to pack/seize), which likely has roots in the Flemish or Dutch 'pakken'. The prefix 'aus-' (out) was added to denote the reversal of the packing action.

Sens originel : To take out of a bundle or bale of goods.

Germanic

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities, but 'auspacken' in a criminal context implies snitching, which has various social connotations.

In English, we say 'unpack' or 'unwrap'. We also say 'spill the beans' or 'come clean', which matches the figurative German use.

Der Insider packt aus (Common book/article title theme) Unboxing-Videos (The global phenomenon, called 'Auspack-Videos' in German) The song 'Pack die Badehose ein' (A famous old song, though it uses the antonym 'einpacken')

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At Home

Einkäufe auspacken
Die Tasche auspacken
Hilf mir beim Auspacken
Wo soll ich das auspacken?

Travel

Den Koffer im Hotel auspacken
Sachen aus dem Rucksack auspacken
Ich habe noch nicht ausgepackt
Muss ich die Flüssigkeiten auspacken?

Birthday/Christmas

Geschenke auspacken
Darf ich es jetzt auspacken?
Vorsichtig auspacken
Viel Spaß beim Auspacken!

Crime/Police

Vor der Polizei auspacken
Die ganze Wahrheit auspacken
Er hat gegen seine Freunde ausgepackt
Wirst du endlich auspacken?

Moving House

Umzugskartons auspacken
Wir packen heute die Küche aus
Viel Arbeit beim Auspacken
Die Kisten sind noch nicht ausgepackt

Amorces de conversation

"Hast du nach deinem Urlaub schon alle Koffer ausgepackt?"

"Was war das schönste Geschenk, das du jemals ausgepackt hast?"

"Magst du es, nach einem Umzug Kartons auszupacken, oder hasst du es?"

"Glaubst du, dass der Politiker in seinem neuen Buch wirklich auspackt?"

"Wie lange brauchst du normalerweise, um deine Einkäufe auszupacken?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe das Gefühl, wenn du nach einer langen Reise endlich deinen Koffer auspackst.

Schreibe über eine Situation, in der jemand die Wahrheit ausgepackt hat. War es gut oder schlecht?

Was würdest du tun, wenn du ein Paket ohne Absender erhältst? Würdest du es sofort auspacken?

Erzähle von einem Umzug: Was war das schwierigste Teil beim Auspacken?

Ist 'Auspacken' (Unboxing) für dich eine Therapie oder einfach nur Arbeit?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, in all standard uses, 'auspacken' is a separable verb. In a main clause in the present tense, 'aus' always moves to the end. For example: 'Ich packe das Paket aus.' Even in the figurative sense, it remains separable.

Use 'entpacken' specifically for computer files, like unzipping a .zip or .rar file. For everything physical like suitcases, boxes, or gifts, 'auspacken' is the correct choice.

No, that is a common mistake. For doors, windows, or eyes, you use 'aufmachen' or 'öffnen'. 'Auspacken' requires that something is taken 'out' of a container or wrapping.

The past participle is 'ausgepackt'. It is used with the auxiliary verb 'haben'. Example: 'Ich habe den Koffer ausgepackt.' This follows the pattern for regular separable verbs.

It is neutral to informal. You will see it in newspapers and hear it in conversation, but in a strictly legal or academic context, words like 'aussagen' (to testify) or 'offenbaren' (to reveal) are more appropriate.

The most common term is 'das Auspacken' or simply 'Unboxing' (as an anglicism). You might also hear 'Auspack-Video' for unboxing videos on YouTube.

Yes, especially in the figurative sense. 'Er hat endlich ausgepackt' (He finally spilled the beans). In the physical sense, an object is usually implied or stated.

'Auspacken' is for containers like boxes and bags. 'Auswickeln' is for things wrapped in layers, like a candy bar in foil or a present in paper. Often they are interchangeable for gifts.

It always takes 'haben' because it is a transitive verb (it takes a direct object). Example: 'Ich habe das Geschenk ausgepackt.'

For 'du', it is 'Pack aus!'. For 'ihr', it is 'Packt aus!'. For the formal 'Sie', it is 'Packen Sie aus!'. Always keep the 'aus' at the end.

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