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A2 noun #7,000 le plus courant 9 min de lecture

das Gelingen

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces das Gelingen en 30 secondes
Explication das Gelingen in your Level:
At the A1 level, you only need to know 'das Gelingen' in one very specific context: wishing someone luck. You will most likely see it in the phrase 'Gutes Gelingen!' This is a very polite way to say 'Good luck with what you are doing right now!' For example, if your friend is about to cook dinner, you say 'Gutes Gelingen!' It's easier to remember if you think of it as a fixed phrase like 'Guten Appetit'. You don't need to worry about the grammar of the word yet, just recognize it as a positive wish. It is a neuter noun (das), but at this stage, focusing on the phrase is more important than the gender. You might see it on greeting cards or in simple recipes. It's a friendly word that makes you sound more like a native speaker than just saying 'Viel Glück' all the time. Remember, it's always capitalized because it's a noun. Even though it looks like the verb 'gelingen', in this phrase, it functions as the thing you are wishing for—the success of the task at hand.
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At the A2 level, you start to understand that 'das Gelingen' is a noun that comes from the verb 'gelingen' (to succeed). You can use it in simple sentences to describe why something worked. For example, 'Das Gelingen der Party war wichtig.' (The success of the party was important). You should also learn the common phrase 'zum Gelingen beitragen' (to contribute to the success). At this level, you can use it to talk about hobbies, like baking or sports. 'Das Gelingen des Kuchens freut mich.' (The success of the cake makes me happy). You are learning that German often turns verbs into nouns to describe a process. You should also notice that it doesn't have a plural form. If you want to say 'many successes', you have to use a different word like 'Erfolge'. Focus on using 'Gelingen' for specific tasks rather than life-long achievements. It's a great word to use in emails to colleagues when you want to wish them a good start on a small project.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'das Gelingen' in more complex sentence structures, including those with genitive attributes. Instead of saying 'Das Gelingen von der Party', you should say 'Das Gelingen der Party'. You also start to see the word in professional contexts. For instance, in a job interview or a work meeting, you might say, 'Ich möchte zum Gelingen des Teams beitragen.' (I want to contribute to the success of the team). You understand the nuance that 'Gelingen' implies a process that went well, whereas 'Erfolg' is just the result. You also learn to use adjectives with it, like 'reibungsloses Gelingen' (smooth success) or 'sicheres Gelingen' (sure success). At this level, you can distinguish between 'Es gelingt mir' (the verb) and 'Das Gelingen' (the noun). You might encounter this word in news articles or more detailed instructions. It's a key word for expressing goals and outcomes in a more sophisticated way than just using 'gut' or 'schlecht'.
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At the B2 level, you use 'das Gelingen' to discuss abstract concepts and societal issues. You might read about 'das Gelingen der Integration' (the success of integration) or 'das Gelingen der Energiewende' (the success of the energy transition). You understand that the word carries a weight of responsibility—it's not just about luck, but about effort and planning. You can use it in debates to argue whether a certain policy will lead to 'Gelingen' or 'Scheitern' (failure). You also become familiar with more formal collocations like 'das Gelingen sicherstellen' (to ensure success) or 'Zweifel am Gelingen äußern' (to express doubts about the success). Your vocabulary is expanding to include how this noun interacts with various verbs and prepositions. You also start to see it in literature or higher-level essays where authors discuss 'das Gelingen des menschlichen Miteinanders' (the success of human coexistence). It becomes a tool for nuanced expression in both written and spoken German.
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At the C1 level, you appreciate the philosophical and stylistic nuances of 'das Gelingen'. You might encounter it in the works of philosophers like Wilhelm Schmid, who discusses 'das Gelingen des Lebens' (the successful/flourishing life). Here, 'Gelingen' is not just about a task, but about the ontological state of being successful in one's existence. You can use the word to create sophisticated metaphors and complex arguments. You understand the historical development of the word and how it differs from 'Erfolg' in terms of internal vs. external validation. In professional writing, you use 'das Gelingen' to provide a polished, academic tone. You might analyze the 'Bedingungen für das Gelingen' (conditions for success) in a scientific paper or a business strategy. Your use of the word is precise, and you can switch between 'Gelingen', 'Erfolg', and 'Glücken' to convey exact shades of meaning regarding agency and chance. You also recognize it in high-level legal or political documents where the 'Gelingen' of a treaty is discussed.
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At the C2 level, 'das Gelingen' is a word you use with total mastery and stylistic flair. You understand its place in the history of the German language and can use it to evoke specific cultural connotations. You might use it in a speech to inspire others, focusing on the collective 'Gelingen' of a shared vision. You are aware of its use in theological or existentialist texts, where 'Gelingen' represents a form of grace or alignment with the world. You can effortlessly integrate it into complex grammatical structures, such as 'Das für das Gelingen unabdingbare Vertrauen...' (The trust, which is indispensable for success...). You use the word to add gravity and precision to your speech. In literary analysis, you might discuss the 'Gelingen' of a poem's meter or a novel's structure. For a C2 speaker, 'das Gelingen' is more than just a word for success; it is a conceptual framework for discussing how human action meets the complexities of reality to produce something harmonious and right.
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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

das Gelingen en 30 secondes

  • Das Gelingen refers to the successful outcome of a specific task or process, focusing on things turning out well.
  • It is primarily used in the singular and is the nominalized version of the verb 'gelingen'.
  • The phrase 'Gutes Gelingen!' is a standard German wish for someone starting a task.
  • It differs from 'Erfolg' by being more task-oriented and process-focused rather than status-oriented.
The German noun das Gelingen is a fascinating example of how the German language turns actions into concepts. At its core, it refers to the successful outcome of an endeavor, the act of succeeding, or the achievement of a desired result. While English often uses the word 'success,' das Gelingen carries a more process-oriented nuance. It is the nominalized form of the verb 'gelingen' (to succeed/to turn out well). Unlike the broader word 'Erfolg' (success), which often implies a final, measurable achievement or status, das Gelingen often focuses on the smooth execution and positive completion of a specific task, such as baking a cake, finishing a project, or conducting a meeting.
Process Focus
It emphasizes that something went as planned and reached its intended goal without significant failure.

Wir wünschen Ihnen für Ihr neues Projekt ein gutes Gelingen.

This word is ubiquitous in German culture, particularly in contexts where one person wishes another luck. You will hear it in the kitchen when a chef hopes for the 'Gelingen' of a soufflé, or in business when a manager hopes for the 'Gelingen' of a merger. It suggests a certain level of effort and skill that leads to a positive result. In philosophical contexts, 'das Gelingen' can refer to the 'successful life' (das Gelingen des Lebens), implying a life that is fulfilled and well-lived. This shows the depth of the word beyond just simple tasks. It is a neuter noun, and because it is an abstract nominalization of a verb, it is almost exclusively used in the singular. Using it correctly marks you as a speaker who understands the subtle distinctions between result-oriented success (Erfolg) and process-oriented success (Gelingen).

Das Gelingen der Operation war für das Team eine große Erleichterung.

Etymological Root
Derived from 'gelingen', which originally related to 'lightness' or things going smoothly.

Ohne die richtige Vorbereitung ist das Gelingen des Plans fragwürdig.

Jeder trägt zum Gelingen des Abends bei.

Register
It is used in both everyday speech and formal writing, making it a versatile addition to your vocabulary.

Das Gelingen einer Ehe erfordert ständige Arbeit.

Overall, 'das Gelingen' captures the essence of things 'working out' in a way that is satisfying and correct.
Using das Gelingen effectively requires understanding its grammatical role as a neuter noun and its common collocations. Since it is a nominalized verb, it often takes a genitive object or a prepositional phrase with 'von' to describe what is succeeding. For example, 'das Gelingen des Experiments' (the success of the experiment).
Genitive Construction
Das Gelingen der Veranstaltung (The success of the event).

Für das Gelingen der Party brauchen wir gute Musik.

Another very common way to use this word is in the dative construction with 'beitragen zu' (to contribute to). You might say 'Alle haben zum Gelingen beigetragen' (Everyone contributed to the success). This is a polite and standard way to thank a team. In everyday conversation, the most frequent usage is the short wish: 'Gutes Gelingen!' This is said when someone is about to start a task, like taking an exam, cooking a meal, or starting a DIY project. It is more specific than 'Viel Glück' (Good luck), as it implies you have the skill to make it happen, but you hope the process goes well.

Ich wünsche dir viel Gelingen bei deiner Prüfung morgen!

Common Verbs
sicherstellen (to ensure), gefährden (to jeopardize), abhängen von (to depend on).

Das Wetter gefährdet das Gelingen unseres Gartenfestes.

You can also use adjectives to modify the noun. 'Ein sicheres Gelingen' (a sure success) or 'ein fragliches Gelingen' (a doubtful success). These modifiers help define the likelihood of the outcome.

Ein reibungsloses Gelingen ist unser oberstes Ziel.

Prepositional Usage
'An dem Gelingen zweifeln' (to doubt the success).

Niemand zweifelte am Gelingen der Mission.

Finally, in professional emails, concluding with 'Für das weitere Gelingen Ihrer Vorhaben wünschen wir alles Gute' is a sophisticated way to wrap up a business relationship or a specific project phase. It shows attention to detail and a high level of linguistic competence.
You will encounter das Gelingen in a variety of real-world German settings. One of the most common places is in the kitchen. German cookbooks and cooking shows frequently use the phrase 'Gelinggarantie' (guarantee of success). This implies that if you follow the recipe exactly, the 'Gelingen' of the dish is assured.
Culinary Context
Recipes often promise 'sicheres Gelingen' to attract novice cooks.

Dieses Rezept bietet eine Garantie für das Gelingen.

In the workplace, the word is used during project kick-offs or wrap-ups. A project lead might say, 'Das Gelingen dieses Projekts hängt von unserer Zusammenarbeit ab.' It emphasizes the collective effort required for a positive outcome. You will also hear it in academic and formal speeches. When a university rector welcomes new students, they might wish them 'viel Gelingen im Studium.' Here, it refers to the successful completion of their degree and the smooth progression of their studies.

Der Rektor wünschte den Erstsemestern ein gutes Gelingen.

In the media, journalists might discuss 'das Gelingen der Energiewende' (the success of the energy transition). In this high-level political context, the word takes on a more abstract meaning, referring to the successful implementation of complex societal changes.
Political Discourse
Often used to discuss the feasibility and success of long-term national goals.

Experten debattieren über das Gelingen der Reform.

Finally, in private life, you'll hear it at celebrations. At a wedding, a guest might toast to 'das Gelingen der Ehe' (the success of the marriage). It is a warm, sincere word that focuses on the ongoing process of building something good together.

Die Gäste stießen auf das Gelingen des Festes an.

Whether in the kitchen, the office, or at a party, das Gelingen is the word Germans use to talk about things turning out exactly as they should.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing das Gelingen with 'der Erfolg'. While they both translate to 'success' in many contexts, they are not always interchangeable. 'Erfolg' is often something you *have* (Ich habe Erfolg), whereas 'Gelingen' is the *act of something working out*. You wouldn't usually say 'Ich habe Gelingen' in the same way you say 'Ich habe Erfolg'.
Mistake: Confusing Erfolg and Gelingen
Don't say 'Mein Gelingen in der Firma ist groß'. Say 'Mein Erfolg in der Firma ist groß'.

Falsch: Ich wünsche dir viel Erfolg beim Backen. (While possible, 'Gelingen' is more natural for specific tasks like baking).

Another common error is with the plural. Since 'das Gelingen' is an abstract noun derived from a verb, it does not have a plural form. If you want to talk about multiple successes, you must use 'Erfolge'. Learners also struggle with the prepositional phrases. It is 'zum Gelingen beitragen' (contribution to the success). Using 'für' here is a common mistake influenced by English ('contribution for').

Richtig: Er trug wesentlich zum Gelingen bei. Falsch: Er trug wesentlich für das Gelingen bei.

Mistake: Personification
'Gelingen' refers to the event or the task, not the person. You don't 'be' a Gelingen, but a task 'is' a Gelingen or 'has' Gelingen.

Falsch: Er ist ein großes Gelingen. Richtig: Er ist ein großer Erfolg (as a person) or Das Projekt war ein Gelingen.

Finally, capitalization is key. Because it looks like a verb (gelingen), beginners often forget to capitalize it. In German, all nominalized verbs used as nouns must be capitalized.

Das Gelingen war knapp. (Success was narrow/close).

Understanding these nuances prevents you from sounding like a machine translator and helps you sound like a natural German speaker.
To truly master das Gelingen, it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. Each has a slightly different shade of meaning.
Der Erfolg
The most common alternative. While 'Gelingen' is about the 'how' and the process, 'Erfolg' is about the 'what' and the outcome. You have 'Erfolg' in your career, but you hope for the 'Gelingen' of a specific presentation.

Sein Erfolg ist beeindruckend, aber das Gelingen dieses Projekts war Teamarbeit.

Das Resultat / Das Ergebnis
These mean 'result' or 'outcome'. They are more neutral than 'Gelingen'. A 'Resultat' can be good or bad, whereas 'Gelingen' inherently implies a positive outcome.

Das Ergebnis war negativ, also gab es kein Gelingen.

Die Vollendung
This means 'completion' or 'perfection'. It is much more formal and often used in the arts. A painter brings a work to 'Vollendung'. 'Gelingen' is more about the practical success of the act.

Das Glücken (verb: glücken) is a near synonym, but it implies more luck than 'Gelingen', which implies skill.

Das Durchkommen
This means 'getting through' or 'passing'. It is used for exams or difficult periods. It is less positive than 'Gelingen'—it's more about survival.

Ihm ging es nur ums Durchkommen, nicht um das perfekte Gelingen.

Ohne Fleiß kein Gelingen. (A variation of the proverb 'Ohne Fleiß kein Preis').

In summary, while 'Erfolg' is the giant umbrella term for success, das Gelingen is the specific, elegant word for the successful unfolding of a plan or task.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"Das Gelingen dieser diplomatischen Bemühungen ist für den Frieden essenziell."

Neutre

"Wir hoffen auf ein Gelingen des Projekts."

Informel

"Gutes Gelingen beim Kochen!"

Child friendly

"Viel Gelingen bei deinem Bild!"

Argot

"Voll das Gelingen, Alter!"

Le savais-tu ?

It is related to the English word 'light' (as in not heavy), because things that 'gelingen' are seen as moving along easily without heavy resistance.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ɡəˈlɪŋən/
US /ɡəˈlɪŋən/
The stress is on the second syllable: ge-LING-en.
Rime avec
Bedingen Singen Springen Ringen Dringen Zwingen Schwingen Klingen
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing the 'g' at the end of 'ng' separately (it should be one nasal sound).
  • Stress on the first syllable.
  • Making the 'i' too long (like 'ee').

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts once the root verb is known.

Écriture 4/5

Requires knowledge of capitalization and genitive/dative constructions.

Expression orale 3/5

Pronunciation of 'ng' can be tricky for some, but phrases are easy.

Écoute 2/5

Very distinct sound, usually easy to pick out in conversation.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

gelingen (verb) der Erfolg gut wünschen beitragen

Apprends ensuite

das Scheitern das Vorhaben die Umsetzung der Prozess das Resultat

Avancé

die Kontingenz die Teleologie die Selbstwirksamkeit die Vollendung das Gedeihen

Grammaire à connaître

Nominalization of Verbs

gelingen -> das Gelingen

Capitalization of Nouns

Always capitalize 'Gelingen'.

Genitive Case for Possession

Das Gelingen des Projekts.

Dative after 'zu'

Zum Gelingen beitragen.

Singularetantum

No plural form exists for Gelingen.

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Exemples par niveau

1

Gutes Gelingen!

Good luck! (with the task)

A fixed expression used as a wish.

2

Viel Gelingen beim Backen!

Good luck with the baking!

Used with 'viel' to emphasize the wish.

3

Ich wünsche dir gutes Gelingen.

I wish you good luck/success.

Standard sentence structure for a wish.

4

Gelingt der Kuchen? Ja, das Gelingen ist sicher.

Is the cake turning out well? Yes, success is certain.

Contrast between verb 'gelingen' and noun 'Gelingen'.

5

Das Gelingen ist wichtig.

Success is important.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

6

Danke für das Gelingen!

Thanks for the success!

Prepositional phrase with 'für'.

7

Ein gutes Gelingen für heute!

A good success for today!

Using 'ein' as an indefinite article.

8

Gutes Gelingen bei der Arbeit.

Good luck at work.

Using 'bei' to specify the context.

1

Das Gelingen der Party freut alle.

The success of the party pleases everyone.

Genitive case: 'der Party'.

2

Wir hoffen auf ein Gelingen des Projekts.

We hope for a success of the project.

Prepositional object: 'auf ein Gelingen'.

3

Zum Gelingen brauchen wir Hilfe.

For success, we need help.

Dative after 'zu' (zum = zu dem).

4

Das Gelingen war eine Überraschung.

The success was a surprise.

Noun used as a subject.

5

Ohne Plan ist das Gelingen schwer.

Without a plan, success is difficult.

Using 'ohne' to show a condition.

6

Jeder hilft zum Gelingen.

Everyone helps toward the success.

Common collocation 'helfen zu'.

7

Das Gelingen hängt vom Wetter ab.

Success depends on the weather.

Verb 'abhängen von' with the noun.

8

Viel Gelingen im neuen Jahr!

Much success in the new year!

A common holiday wish.

1

Alle Mitarbeiter haben zum Gelingen beigetragen.

All employees contributed to the success.

Perfect tense with 'beitragen zu'.

2

Das Gelingen des Experiments war fragwürdig.

The success of the experiment was questionable.

Genitive 'des Experiments'.

3

Wir garantieren das Gelingen unserer Rezepte.

We guarantee the success of our recipes.

Accusative object 'das Gelingen'.

4

Der Erfolg hängt vom Gelingen der Verhandlungen ab.

Success depends on the success of the negotiations.

Dative object 'vom Gelingen'.

5

Ein reibungsloses Gelingen ist uns wichtig.

A smooth success is important to us.

Adjective 'reibungslos' modifying the noun.

6

Sie zweifelt am Gelingen des Vorhabens.

She doubts the success of the plan.

Preposition 'an' + dative.

7

Für das Gelingen ist Disziplin nötig.

For success, discipline is necessary.

Prepositional phrase at the start of the sentence.

8

Das Gelingen der Operation war ein Wunder.

The success of the surgery was a miracle.

Genitive 'der Operation'.

1

Das Gelingen der Energiewende erfordert globale Kooperation.

The success of the energy transition requires global cooperation.

Abstract political context.

2

Man darf das Gelingen nicht dem Zufall überlassen.

One must not leave success to chance.

Direct object in a complex sentence.

3

Die Voraussetzungen für das Gelingen sind erfüllt.

The prerequisites for success are met.

Plural noun 'Voraussetzungen' with preposition 'für'.

4

Trotz aller Probleme war das Gelingen möglich.

Despite all problems, success was possible.

Using the preposition 'trotz' (genitive).

5

Das Gelingen einer Integration ist ein langer Prozess.

The success of integration is a long process.

Genitive 'einer Integration'.

6

Wir setzen alles auf das Gelingen dieses Deals.

We are betting everything on the success of this deal.

Idiomatic use of 'setzen auf'.

7

Das Gelingen des Abends war der Verdienst des Gastgebers.

The success of the evening was thanks to the host.

Double genitive structure.

8

Ein Gelingen ist unter diesen Umständen unwahrscheinlich.

Success is unlikely under these circumstances.

Adverbial phrase 'unter diesen Umständen'.

1

Das Gelingen des Lebens ist ein zentrales Thema der Philosophie.

The flourishing of life is a central theme of philosophy.

Philosophical use of 'Gelingen'.

2

Die Studie untersucht die Faktoren, die das Gelingen beeinflussen.

The study examines the factors that influence success.

Relative clause 'die das Gelingen beeinflussen'.

3

Es mangelt an den notwendigen Ressourcen für ein Gelingen.

There is a lack of necessary resources for success.

Verb 'mangeln an' + dative.

4

Das Gelingen der diplomatischen Mission war von höchster Priorität.

The success of the diplomatic mission was of the highest priority.

Formal register.

5

Man sollte das Gelingen nicht nur an materiellen Werten messen.

One should not measure success only by material values.

Modal verb 'sollte' with infinitive 'messen'.

6

Das Gelingen des Vorhabens stand auf Messers Schneide.

The success of the project was on a knife's edge.

Idiom 'auf Messers Schneide stehen'.

7

Die Komplexität der Aufgabe erschwert das Gelingen erheblich.

The complexity of the task makes success significantly more difficult.

Adverb 'erheblich' modifying the verb.

8

Das Gelingen einer Beziehung basiert auf Vertrauen.

The success of a relationship is based on trust.

Verb 'basieren auf' + dative.

1

Das Gelingen des Werkes zeugt von der Meisterschaft des Künstlers.

The success of the work testifies to the artist's mastery.

High literary register.

2

In der Auseinandersetzung mit dem Scheitern liegt oft der Keim für das Gelingen.

In the confrontation with failure often lies the seed for success.

Complex metaphorical sentence.

3

Das Gelingen der Reform hängt von der Akzeptanz der Bevölkerung ab.

The success of the reform depends on the population's acceptance.

Sociopolitical analysis.

4

Die Kontingenz des Lebens stellt das Gelingen stets infrage.

The contingency of life always calls success into question.

Philosophical terminology ('Kontingenz').

5

Das Gelingen als solches ist kein Selbstzweck.

Success as such is not an end in itself.

Abstract reasoning.

6

Wir müssen die Parameter für ein Gelingen neu definieren.

We must redefine the parameters for success.

Technical/Business formal.

7

Das Gelingen der Inszenierung war der Höhepunkt der Spielzeit.

The success of the production was the highlight of the season.

Arts/Theater context.

8

Das Gelingen des Experiments ist eine Conditio sine qua non für weitere Gelder.

The success of the experiment is a prerequisite for further funding.

Use of Latin legal/academic terms.

Collocations courantes

gutes Gelingen
zum Gelingen beitragen
das Gelingen sicherstellen
am Gelingen zweifeln
Garantie für das Gelingen
Voraussetzung für das Gelingen
das Gelingen gefährden
reibungsloses Gelingen
sicheres Gelingen
das Gelingen der Mission

Phrases Courantes

Gutes Gelingen!

— A standard wish for success in a task.

Viel Spaß in der Küche und gutes Gelingen!

Viel Gelingen!

— Another way to wish someone success.

Viel Gelingen bei deiner Präsentation!

Zum Gelingen des Ganzen

— Contributing to the success of the whole project/effort.

Jeder Handgriff trägt zum Gelingen des Ganzen bei.

Ein Gelingen ist fraglich

— Success is doubtful.

Ohne Geld ist ein Gelingen fraglich.

Garant für das Gelingen

— Something that guarantees success.

Seine Erfahrung ist ein Garant für das Gelingen.

Am Gelingen arbeiten

— To work on making something successful.

Wir arbeiten hart am Gelingen der Reform.

Das Gelingen des Vorhabens

— The success of the plan/intention.

Das Gelingen des Vorhabens ist uns wichtig.

Alles Gute für das Gelingen

— All the best for the success.

Ich wünsche dir alles Gute für das Gelingen deines Plans.

Ein glückliches Gelingen

— A happy/successful outcome.

Wir hoffen auf ein glückliches Gelingen der Verhandlungen.

Das Gelingen einer Ehe

— The success/flourishing of a marriage.

Das Gelingen einer Ehe braucht Zeit.

Souvent confondu avec

das Gelingen vs der Erfolg

Erfolg is broader and result-oriented; Gelingen is specific and process-oriented.

das Gelingen vs das Glück

Glück is luck/happiness; Gelingen implies successful effort.

das Gelingen vs das Gelingen (verb)

Don't confuse the noun with the verb 'gelingen'. Nouns are capitalized.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Auf das Gelingen!"

— A toast made to hope for a positive outcome.

Hebt die Gläser: Auf das Gelingen!

neutral
"Gutes Gelingen!"

— Used as an idiom of encouragement.

Du schaffst das, gutes Gelingen!

neutral
"Zum Gelingen verhelfen"

— To help something succeed.

Sein Rat verhalf dem Plan zum Gelingen.

formal
"Ein Garant für Gelingen sein"

— To be a guarantee for success.

Diese Zutat ist ein Garant für Gelingen.

neutral
"Keine Garantie für das Gelingen"

— No guarantee that it will work.

Es gibt leider keine Garantie für das Gelingen.

neutral
"Das Gelingen im Blick haben"

— To keep the success of the task in focus.

Wir müssen stets das Gelingen im Blick haben.

neutral
"Um das Gelingen bangen"

— To worry about whether something will succeed.

Die Bauern bangen um das Gelingen der Ernte.

literary
"Auf Messers Schneide (bezüglich des Gelingens)"

— Success is very uncertain/risky.

Das Gelingen stand auf Messers Schneide.

neutral
"Den Grundstein für das Gelingen legen"

— To lay the foundation for success.

Heute legen wir den Grundstein für das Gelingen.

neutral
"Das Gelingen dem Schicksal überlassen"

— To leave the success to fate.

Wir können das Gelingen nicht dem Schicksal überlassen.

neutral

Facile à confondre

das Gelingen vs Erfolg

Both mean success.

Erfolg is a status or general outcome. Gelingen is the act of a task working out well.

Viel Erfolg (general luck) vs. Gutes Gelingen (luck with this specific task).

das Gelingen vs Glück

Both used in wishes.

Glück is pure luck or chance. Gelingen implies your skill will lead to the result.

Viel Glück im Casino vs. Gutes Gelingen beim Backen.

das Gelingen vs Ergebnis

Both relate to outcomes.

Ergebnis is neutral (can be bad). Gelingen is always positive.

Das Ergebnis war ein Misserfolg.

das Gelingen vs Sieg

Both involve winning/success.

Sieg is against an opponent. Gelingen is against a task or challenge.

Der Sieg im Spiel vs. Das Gelingen des Kuchens.

das Gelingen vs Vollendung

Both imply finishing something.

Vollendung is very formal and implies reaching a state of perfection.

Die Vollendung einer Sinfonie.

Structures de phrases

A1

Gutes Gelingen!

Gutes Gelingen!

A2

Das Gelingen der/des [Noun] ist [Adjective].

Das Gelingen der Party ist sicher.

B1

Ich trage zum Gelingen des [Noun] bei.

Ich trage zum Gelingen des Projekts bei.

B2

Das Gelingen hängt von [Dative Noun] ab.

Das Gelingen hängt von der Kooperation ab.

C1

Die Voraussetzungen für das Gelingen sind...

Die Voraussetzungen für das Gelingen sind Vertrauen und Zeit.

C2

Infrage stellen des Gelingens...

Man darf das Gelingen der Reform nicht infrage stellen.

B1

Zweifeln am Gelingen...

Er zweifelt am Gelingen seines Plans.

A2

Viel Gelingen bei [Dative Noun].

Viel Gelingen bei der Arbeit.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in specific contexts like wishing luck or discussing project outcomes.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'für' instead of 'zu'. → Beitrag zum Gelingen.

    In German, you contribute 'to' (zu) the success, not 'for' (für) it.

  • Lowercasing 'Gelingen'. → Das Gelingen.

    As a noun, it must be capitalized.

  • Using the plural 'Gelingen'. → Erfolge.

    Gelingen has no plural form.

  • Saying 'Ich bin ein Gelingen'. → Ich habe Erfolg.

    Gelingen refers to tasks, not people.

  • Confusing it with 'Glück'. → Gutes Gelingen beim Test.

    Use Gelingen when skill is involved, Glück for pure chance.

Astuces

Baking Success

Always associate 'Gelingen' with a cake coming out perfectly. It helps remember it's about a task working out.

Nominalization

Remember that many German nouns are just verbs with a capital letter and 'das'. Gelingen is one of them.

Polite Wishes

Use 'Gutes Gelingen!' when leaving a colleague's desk while they are working. It's very polite.

Beyond Erfolg

Using 'Gelingen' instead of 'Erfolg' for specific tasks makes your German sound much more advanced.

Genitive Practice

Practice using the genitive with this word, e.g., 'Das Gelingen des Abends'.

Cooking Shows

Watch German cooking shows on YouTube. You will hear 'Gelingen' constantly.

The 'ng' sound

Make sure the 'ng' is nasal and doesn't have a hard 'g' sound at the end.

Process Values

Understand that 'Gelingen' celebrates the process, not just the result.

Gelinggarantie

Look for this word on product packaging; it means the product is easy to use successfully.

Daily Usage

Try to wish someone 'Gutes Gelingen' once a day to lock it in.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'GEL' (hair gel). When you use gel, your hair 'succeeds' in staying in place. Das GEL-ingen is the 'staying in place' or success of your hairstyle.

Association visuelle

Imagine a perfect cake coming out of the oven. A baker smiles and says 'Gelinggarantie!' (Guarantee of success).

Word Web

Erfolg Plan Kuchen Arbeit Glück Tat Ziel Wunsch

Défi

Try to use 'Gutes Gelingen!' three times today: once for a friend's meal, once for a colleague's task, and once for your own project.

Origine du mot

From the Middle High German 'gelingen', which meant 'to proceed easily' or 'to have success'.

Sens originel : To move forward lightly or smoothly.

Germanic.

Contexte culturel

None. It is a very positive and safe word.

English speakers often just say 'Good luck,' but 'Gutes Gelingen' is more specific to the task at hand.

Used in countless German cookbooks (Dr. Oetker). Common in business etiquette guides. Philosophical texts on 'The Good Life'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Cooking

  • Gelinggarantie
  • Sicheres Gelingen
  • Gutes Gelingen beim Rezept
  • Zum Gelingen des Kuchens

Work/Business

  • Zum Gelingen des Projekts beitragen
  • Das Gelingen sicherstellen
  • Zweifel am Gelingen
  • Viel Gelingen bei der Präsentation

Exams/Studies

  • Gutes Gelingen bei der Prüfung
  • Das Gelingen des Studiums
  • Viel Gelingen für die Klausur
  • Am Gelingen arbeiten

Social Events

  • Das Gelingen der Party
  • Auf das Gelingen anstoßen
  • Zum Gelingen des Abends beitragen
  • Ein schönes Gelingen

Personal Goals

  • Das Gelingen meiner Pläne
  • Hoffen auf Gelingen
  • Voraussetzung für das Gelingen
  • Das Gelingen des Vorhabens

Amorces de conversation

"Wie wichtig ist dir das Gelingen deiner täglichen Aufgaben?"

"Was war dein größtes Gelingen in der letzten Woche?"

"Glaubst du, dass Vorbereitung das Gelingen garantiert?"

"Wie reagierst du, wenn das Gelingen eines Plans fraglich ist?"

"Trägst du gerne zum Gelingen von Teamprojekten bei?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der das Gelingen einer Sache dich sehr glücklich gemacht hat.

Was sind für dich die wichtigsten Faktoren für das Gelingen einer Freundschaft?

Reflektiere über ein Projekt, bei dem das Gelingen am Anfang unsicher war.

Wie definierst du das 'Gelingen des Lebens' für dich persönlich?

Schreibe über jemanden, der wesentlich zum Gelingen deines letzten Urlaubs beigetragen hat.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, 'das Gelingen' is a Singularetantum. If you need a plural, use 'Erfolge'.

'Viel Erfolg' is general (e.g., for a career). 'Gutes Gelingen' is for a specific task starting now (e.g., a recipe or an exam).

It can be used in both informal (wishing a friend luck) and very formal (academic/business) contexts.

Yes, when used as a noun, it must be capitalized. The verb 'gelingen' is lowercase.

No, that sounds unnatural. Use 'Es gelingt mir' (verb) or 'Ich habe Erfolg' (different noun).

Commonly 'an' (Zweifel am Gelingen) or 'zu' (Beitrag zum Gelingen).

Yes, the verb is 'gelingen'. It is an irregular verb (gelang, ist gelungen).

It is always 'das Gelingen' (neuter).

No, you cannot say 'Er ist ein Gelingen'. You would say 'Er ist ein Erfolg'.

No, that is 'Glück'. 'Gelingen' is strictly about things working out as planned.

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Teste-toi 192 questions

writing

Write a sentence wishing a friend success with their new recipe.

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writing

Explain why you are happy about the success of a project.

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writing

Write a formal email sentence thanking a team for their contribution to a success.

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writing

Describe a condition necessary for a plan to succeed.

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writing

Use 'zweifeln' and 'Gelingen' in a sentence.

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writing

Create a sentence using the genitive form of Gelingen.

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writing

Write a short wish for someone starting a new job.

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writing

Compare 'Erfolg' and 'Gelingen' in two sentences.

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writing

Write a sentence about a cake that didn't turn out well.

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writing

Describe the atmosphere after a successful event.

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writing

Use 'reibungslos' with 'Gelingen'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Gelinggarantie'.

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writing

Describe a situation where success depends on the weather.

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writing

Write a philosophical sentence about a successful life.

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writing

Use 'beitragen' in the past tense with Gelingen.

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writing

Write a sentence about a doubtful outcome.

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writing

Ask a colleague if they believe in the success of a deal.

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writing

Write a sentence about a team's common goal.

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writing

Describe a miracle surgery.

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writing

Write a wish for a student taking an exam.

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speaking

Say 'Good luck with your project!' using Gelingen.

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speaking

Tell your team they all contributed to the success.

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speaking

Wish someone luck with their baking.

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speaking

Express doubt about a plan's success.

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speaking

Say 'I hope for a smooth success.'

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speaking

Ask if the success depends on the weather.

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speaking

Propose a toast to the success of the evening.

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speaking

Say 'We guarantee success.'

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speaking

Tell someone 'Good luck with the exam!'

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speaking

Say 'Success is very important to us.'

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speaking

Say 'Everyone is working on the success.'

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speaking

Wish someone success for the next year.

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speaking

Say 'The success was a miracle.'

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speaking

Ask 'Who is responsible for the success?'

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speaking

Say 'The success of the party was great.'

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speaking

Say 'I wish you all the best for the success.'

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speaking

Say 'Success is not guaranteed.'

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speaking

Say 'A plan is necessary for success.'

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speaking

Say 'Good luck with your work!'

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speaking

Say 'The success of the marriage is important.'

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listening

Listen and write the missing word: 'Gutes ________!'

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listening

Identify the noun: 'Wir hoffen auf das Gelingen.'

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listening

Listen for the preposition: 'Beitrag zum Gelingen.'

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listening

What is being guaranteed? 'Unsere Gelinggarantie ist bekannt.'

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listening

Listen for the article: 'Das Gelingen war sicher.'

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listening

What word follows 'viel'? 'Viel Gelingen!'

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listening

Identify the context: 'Viel Gelingen in der Küche!'

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listening

Listen for the genitive: 'Das Gelingen des Abends.'

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listening

What is doubted? 'Ich zweifle am Gelingen.'

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listening

Listen for the adjective: 'Ein sicheres Gelingen.'

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listening

Listen for the verb: 'Zum Gelingen beitragen.'

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listening

What is the wish? 'Gutes Gelingen bei der Prüfung!'

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listening

Listen for the negative: 'Kein Gelingen ohne Fleiß.'

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listening

What is jeopardized? 'Das Gelingen ist gefährdet.'

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listening

Listen for the possessive: 'Das Gelingen meiner Pläne.'

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/ 192 correct

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