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der Fahrkartenautomat

B1 noun #9,000 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

der Fahrkartenautomat

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces der Fahrkartenautomat en 30 secondes

Explication der Fahrkartenautomat in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to recognize 'der Fahrkartenautomat' as a very long word that means 'ticket machine'. You might see it at the train station. It is made of 'Fahrkarte' (ticket) and 'Automat' (machine). For a beginner, the most important thing is to know that you go there to buy a 'Fahrkarte'. You can simply point and say 'Der Automat' if the long word is too difficult. You should learn the phrase 'Wo ist der Fahrkartenautomat?' (Where is the ticket machine?) to help you navigate when you arrive in Germany. Don't worry about the grammar rules like N-declension yet; just focus on identifying the object and knowing what it is for. It is usually a big red or yellow box with a screen. You touch the screen to start. Most machines in big cities have an 'English' button, which is very helpful for A1 students! Just look for the British or American flag icon on the screen.

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At the A2 level, you should be able to use 'der Fahrkartenautomat' in simple sentences. You should know it is a masculine noun ('der'). You can describe basic actions: 'Ich kaufe ein Ticket am Fahrkartenautomaten.' Notice the 'en' at the end—at A2, you start to learn that some words change their endings. You should also be familiar with related words like 'drücken' (to press), 'bezahlen' (to pay), and 'Bargeld' (cash). You might need to explain a problem: 'Der Fahrkartenautomat ist kaputt' (The ticket machine is broken). You are learning to navigate daily life, and the station is a big part of that. Practice asking for help: 'Können Sie mir am Fahrkartenautomaten helfen?' (Can you help me at the ticket machine?). You should also recognize that you can get different types of tickets there, like a 'Tageskarte' (day ticket) or a 'Einzelfahrt' (single journey).

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At the B1 level, you are expected to understand the grammar behind 'der Fahrkartenautomat' fully. This includes the N-declension, meaning you correctly add '-en' in the accusative, dative, and genitive cases ('Ich sehe den Fahrkartenautomaten'). You should be able to follow more complex instructions on the screen, such as choosing between different 'Verbundtarife' (regional fare structures) or selecting a 'BahnCard' discount. You might have to discuss the pros and cons of using a physical machine versus a mobile app. At this level, you should also know the difference between 'entwerten' (to validate) and 'kaufen' (to buy), as some 'Fahrkartenautomaten' sell tickets that must be stamped elsewhere. You can handle situations like a machine malfunction: 'Der Automat hat mein Geld genommen, aber kein Ticket gedruckt.' (The machine took my money but didn't print a ticket.)

At the B2 level, you should use 'der Fahrkartenautomat' fluently in discussions about public infrastructure or travel experiences. You can understand more technical descriptions, such as 'die Benutzeroberfläche des Fahrkartenautomaten' (the user interface of the ticket machine). You might use the word in the context of formal complaints or suggestions for improvement. You understand the nuances between 'Fahrkartenautomat', 'Fahrkartenschalter', and 'Reisezentrum'. You are also aware of regional variations, like 'Billettaufautomat' in Switzerland. Your grammar should be near-perfect, especially with the N-declension and compound word formation. You can explain to someone else how the zoning system works on the machine: 'Man muss zuerst das Ziel eingeben, und dann berechnet der Fahrkartenautomat den Preis basierend auf den durchfahrenen Zonen.' This shows a high level of command over both the vocabulary and the underlying logic of the transport system.

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At the C1 level, 'der Fahrkartenautomat' is a basic vocabulary item that you use without thinking, but you can also discuss it in a more abstract or socio-economic context. You might talk about the 'Automatisierung' (automation) of services and how the disappearance of human-staffed counters in favor of 'Fahrkartenautomaten' affects certain demographics, like the elderly. You can analyze the 'Usability' or 'Barrierefreiheit' (accessibility) of the machines' software. You might encounter the word in complex legal texts regarding transportation law or in technical specifications for city planning. Your language is sophisticated enough to use the word in idiomatic or metaphorical ways if necessary, and you have a deep understanding of the cultural role these machines play in the German 'Pendlerkultur' (commuter culture). You can effortlessly switch between 'Fahrkartenautomat', 'Ticketautomat', and other synonyms depending on the desired register or regional context.

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At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over the word and its various contexts. You can engage in high-level debates about the future of 'Fahrkartenautomaten' in an increasingly digital world, perhaps discussing whether they will eventually become obsolete ('obsolet werden') as biometric scanning or 'Check-in/Check-out' systems take over. You understand the historical evolution of the 'Fahrkartenautomat', from mechanical coin-operated devices to integrated smart-city hubs. You can use the word in literary or journalistic writing with perfect stylistic nuance. You are also familiar with very specific jargon related to the maintenance and backend of these machines. For you, the 'Fahrkartenautomat' is not just a machine, but a data point in the broader discussion of German 'Verkehrswende' (transport transition). Your use of the N-declension and complex sentence structures involving this noun is flawless and natural.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

der Fahrkartenautomat en 30 secondes

A masculine noun (der) meaning 'ticket machine', essential for public transport in Germany.
Follows the N-declension, meaning it adds '-en' in all cases except nominative singular.
Found at train stations, tram stops, and occasionally inside buses or trams.
A compound of 'Fahrkarten' (tickets) and 'Automat' (vending machine/automaton).

The German word der Fahrkartenautomat is a quintessential compound noun that every traveler in German-speaking countries must master. At its core, it refers to a ticket vending machine. However, in the context of the efficient and often complex German public transportation system (the Öffentlicher Personennahverkehr or ÖPNV), this machine is much more than a simple dispenser of paper. It is the gatekeeper to mobility, found on nearly every train platform, tram stop, and sometimes even inside buses. Understanding how to navigate a Fahrkartenautomat is a rite of passage for any learner, as it involves interacting with a digital interface that requires specific vocabulary related to zones, validity periods, and discount cards.

The Breakdown: The word is composed of three parts: Fahr (from fahren, to drive/travel), Karte (card/ticket), and Automat (vending machine). The 'n' in the middle is a connecting element (Fugenelement) common in German compounds.
Cultural Significance: In Germany, the Fahrkartenautomat is often the only way to purchase a ticket, especially at smaller stations where human-staffed counters (Reisezentren) are increasingly rare. It represents the German preference for automation and self-service in logistics.

Ich stehe vor dem Fahrkartenautomaten und versuche zu verstehen, welche Zone ich brauche.

Translation: I am standing in front of the ticket machine and trying to understand which zone I need.

The use of the word is strictly functional. You will hear it in announcements when a machine is out of order (außer Betrieb) or when asking for directions in a station. It is a masculine noun, which is crucial for grammar, particularly when using prepositions of place like 'am' (an dem) or 'vor dem'. Because it follows the N-declension rule, you will see it change to 'Fahrkartenautomaten' in the accusative, dative, and genitive singular forms, a detail that often trips up intermediate learners. Modern machines are now touch-screen based and offer multiple languages, but the physical object remains a 'Fahrkartenautomat' regardless of its technological sophistication.

In a broader sense, the Fahrkartenautomat serves as a symbol of the transition from traditional travel to digital integration. While many Germans now use apps like DB Navigator, the physical machine remains an essential backup and a primary tool for tourists and the elderly. It is the site of many frustrated sighs when it fails to read a bill or when the sun glare makes the screen unreadable. Nevertheless, it is an indispensable part of the German urban landscape, standing tall in its typical red (Deutsche Bahn) or yellow/blue (regional transport) colors. Mastering the name of this machine is your first step toward navigating the rails of Central Europe with confidence and ease.

Using der Fahrkartenautomat correctly involves more than just knowing the word; it requires an understanding of German cases and compound noun logic. Since it is a masculine noun ending in '-at', it belongs to the N-declension group. This means that in any case other than the nominative singular, you must add an '-en' to the end. This is a common point of confusion for B1 learners who might forget the extra syllable when saying 'Ich sehe den Fahrkartenautomaten' (Accusative).

Direct Object (Accusative): When you are looking for or using the machine, it is the direct object. Example: 'Suchen Sie den Fahrkartenautomaten?' (Are you looking for the ticket machine?)
Location (Dative): When describing where you are, use the dative case. Example: 'Wir treffen uns am Fahrkartenautomaten.' (We are meeting at the ticket machine.)

Der Fahrkartenautomat nimmt leider keine Fünfzig-Euro-Scheine an.

Translation: The ticket machine unfortunately does not accept fifty-euro notes.

Verb pairings are also essential. Common verbs used with this noun include bedienen (to operate/use), suchen (to look for), finden (to find), and reparieren (to repair). You might also hear am Automaten ziehen, which is a slightly older way of saying 'to get a ticket from the machine,' originating from the days when machines had physical levers or pull-mechanisms. In modern parlance, kaufen (to buy) or lösen (to obtain/solve for a ticket) are more frequent. For instance, 'Ich muss noch schnell eine Karte am Automaten lösen' is a very natural way to say you need to grab a ticket quickly before the train arrives.

Furthermore, the word can be shortened in casual speech to just 'der Automat', provided the context of the train station is already established. If you are standing on a platform and say, 'Der Automat ist kaputt,' everyone will know you mean the ticket machine and not a snack machine. However, for clarity and in formal writing, the full compound noun is preferred. In technical manuals or station announcements, you will always hear the full version. It is also worth noting that in some regions, specifically Austria and Switzerland, you might encounter the word Billettaufautomat, though Fahrkartenautomat is understood everywhere in the D-A-CH region.

The most common place to encounter der Fahrkartenautomat is, unsurprisingly, at railway stations (Bahnhöfe). However, the context in which you hear it can vary significantly. In a busy station like Berlin Hauptbahnhof, you might hear a frustrated commuter complaining to a staff member, 'Der Fahrkartenautomat dort hinten hat meine Karte geschluckt!' (The ticket machine back there swallowed my card!). This highlights the machine's role as a point of high interaction and occasional friction in daily German life.

On the Platform: Loudspeakers might announce: 'Bitte nutzen Sie die Fahrkartenautomaten auf dem Bahnsteig.' (Please use the ticket machines on the platform.)
In Tourist Information: Staff might explain: 'Sie können das Wochen-Ticket direkt am Fahrkartenautomaten kaufen.' (You can buy the weekly ticket directly at the ticket machine.)

Entschuldigung, können Sie mir helfen? Ich verstehe die Menüführung am Fahrkartenautomaten nicht.

Translation: Excuse me, can you help me? I don't understand the menu navigation on the ticket machine.

Beyond the physical station, you will hear this word in educational settings—German language textbooks love this word because it is a perfect example of a long compound noun and the N-declension. It also appears frequently in news reports about fare increases or technical upgrades to the rail network. For example, a news anchor might report on 'neue, barrierefreie Fahrkartenautomaten' (new, accessible ticket machines) being installed across the city. This word is a staple of the 'Alltag' (daily life) vocabulary that allows you to function independently in Germany.

Finally, you will find the word written in digital spaces. When you look up travel information on the Deutsche Bahn website, it might specify whether a certain ticket is 'nur am Fahrkartenautomaten erhältlich' (only available at the ticket machine). This is crucial for planning, as some special regional offers are not sold online. In summary, the word is ubiquitous in the physical and digital infrastructure of German transport, making it a high-frequency term for anyone living in or visiting the country. Whether it's a small screen at a bus stop or a giant bank of machines at a terminal, the Fahrkartenautomat is a constant companion.

The most frequent mistake learners make with der Fahrkartenautomat involves the N-declension. Because 'Automat' is a masculine noun ending in '-at' (a suffix of Greek/Latin origin), it requires an extra '-en' in the accusative, dative, and genitive singular cases. Many students say 'Ich stehe vor dem Fahrkartenautomat' (incorrect) instead of 'Ich stehe vor dem Fahrkartenautomaten' (correct). This error is subtle but marks the speaker as a beginner rather than an intermediate learner.

Gender Confusion: Some learners assume it's neuter because it's a machine, saying 'das Fahrkartenautomat'. Remember: almost all nouns ending in '-at' that describe machines or people are masculine.
Plural vs. Singular: Because the singular dative ('dem Automaten') looks like the plural ('die Automaten'), learners often get confused. Pay attention to the article to distinguish them.

Falsch: Ich habe ~~den Fahrkartenautomat~~ benutzt.
Richtig: Ich habe den Fahrkartenautomaten benutzt.

Explanation: In the accusative case, 'Automat' must take the 'n' ending.

Another common mistake is the spelling of the compound. Learners often forget the 'n' in the middle (Fahrkarte-n-automat). This 'n' is necessary because 'Fahrkarten' is the plural of 'Fahrkarte'. You aren't buying just one possible ticket; it's a machine for 'tickets' (plural). Missing this 'n' makes the word sound disjointed to a native speaker. Additionally, confusing Fahrkarte with Fahrrad can lead to the humorous but incorrect 'Fahrradautomat' (bicycle machine), which actually exists in some cities but is definitely not where you buy your train ticket!

Lastly, learners sometimes use the word Ticketmaschine. While understandable, this is a literal translation from English and is rarely used in German. The word Ticket is increasingly common, so Ticketautomat is a perfectly acceptable alternative, but Fahrkartenautomat remains the standard official term. Stick to the traditional compound to sound more natural. Also, be careful with the plural 'Automate'—it doesn't exist. The plural is always 'Automaten'. Keeping these grammatical quirks in mind will help you use the word accurately in any situation.

While der Fahrkartenautomat is the most precise term for a ticket vending machine, several related words and alternatives exist depending on the context and region. Understanding these nuances can help you expand your vocabulary and understand different signs or announcements you might encounter during your travels.

Ticketautomat: A more modern, slightly shorter version. 'Ticket' is an English loanword that is now fully integrated into German. It is used interchangeably with Fahrkartenautomat, especially in urban areas.
Fahrkartenschalter: This refers to the physical ticket counter staffed by a human. If the Fahrkartenautomat is too complicated, you look for the Schalter.
Billettautomat: Commonly used in Switzerland and occasionally in Southern Germany. 'Billett' is the Swiss-German word for ticket.

Anstatt am Fahrkartenautomaten zu warten, kaufe ich meine Reisebeläge lieber online.

Translation: Instead of waiting at the ticket machine, I prefer to buy my travel documents online.

In terms of broader categories, a Fahrkartenautomat is a type of Verkaufsautomat (vending machine). Other examples include the Getränkeautomat (drink machine) or the Zigarettenautomat (cigarette machine). It is important to distinguish between the machine and the ticket itself. A Fahrschein, Fahrkarte, and Ticket all mean roughly the same thing, though Fahrschein is often used specifically for local transport like buses and trams, while Fahrkarte is more common for long-distance trains.

Finally, consider the digital alternative: the App or the Online-Shop. Many people now say, 'Ich buche das Ticket in der App,' avoiding the physical machine entirely. However, the Fahrkartenautomat remains the physical backup. In some cases, you might also see Entwerter (validators). These are not ticket machines; they are the small boxes where you stamp a pre-bought ticket to make it valid. Confusing a Fahrkartenautomat with an Entwerter is a common mistake for tourists—you buy the ticket at the Automat and validate it at the Entwerter if it doesn't already have a timestamp!

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The first ticket machines in Germany appeared in the late 19th century and were entirely mechanical, using weights and levers to dispense tickets for a fixed price.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈfaːɐ̯kaʁtn̩aʊtoˌmaːt/

US /ˈfɑːrkɑːrtn̩aʊtəˌmɑːt/

Primary stress on 'Fahr-', secondary stress on '-ma-'.

Rime avec

Soldat Diplomat Salat Apparat Format Pirat Referat Staat

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'Automat' like the English 'automatic' (with a 'sh' sound).
Forgetting the 'n' in the middle.
Stress on the 'o' in Automat instead of the 'a'.
Not vocalizing the '-en' ending in dative/accusative.
Pronouncing the 'v' in Fahr (it should be an 'f' sound).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

The word is long but follows standard compound logic. Easy to recognize once you know the parts.

Écriture 4/5

Spelling the compound correctly and remembering the N-declension can be tricky.

Expression orale 4/5

Pronouncing the long string of syllables clearly requires practice.

Écoute 3/5

Clear and distinct, but often spoken fast in station announcements.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

fahren die Karte der Automat der Bahnhof das Ticket

Apprends ensuite

der Entwerter die Zone der Tarif die Verspätung das Gleis

Avancé

die Beförderungsbedingungen die Tarifzoneneinteilung die Benutzeroberfläche die Barrierefreiheit die Nahverkehrsabgabe

Grammaire à connaître

N-Declension

den Automaten, dem Automaten, des Automaten.

Compound Nouns

Fahr + Karte + n + Automat.

Dative Prepositions

an + dem = am Fahrkartenautomaten.

Plural Formation

der Automat -> die Automaten.

Gender of Loanwords in -at

der Automat, der Diplomat, der Pirat.

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Exemples par niveau

Wo ist der Fahrkartenautomat?

Where is the ticket machine?

Nominative singular.

Der Fahrkartenautomat ist rot.

The ticket machine is red.

Subject of the sentence.

Ich brauche den Fahrkartenautomaten.

I need the ticket machine.

Accusative case, note the -en ending.

Ist das ein Fahrkartenautomat?

Is that a ticket machine?

Indefinite article 'ein'.

Hier ist kein Fahrkartenautomat.

There is no ticket machine here.

Negative 'kein'.

Der Fahrkartenautomat ist da.

The ticket machine is there.

Adverb of place 'da'.

Ein Fahrkartenautomat für Busse.

A ticket machine for buses.

Preposition 'für' takes accusative.

Bitte, ein Fahrkartenautomat!

Please, a ticket machine!

Exclamatory use.

Ich kaufe mein Ticket am Fahrkartenautomaten.

I buy my ticket at the ticket machine.

Dative case after 'am' (an dem).

Der Fahrkartenautomat nimmt nur Münzen.

The ticket machine only takes coins.

Verb 'nehmen' (takes).

Warten Sie am Fahrkartenautomaten!

Wait at the ticket machine!

Imperative form.

Der Fahrkartenautomat ist leider außer Betrieb.

The ticket machine is unfortunately out of order.

Phrase 'außer Betrieb'.

Können Sie den Fahrkartenautomaten bedienen?

Can you operate the ticket machine?

Modal verb 'können'.

Es gibt zwei Fahrkartenautomaten am Bahnhof.

There are two ticket machines at the station.

Plural form 'Automaten'.

Der Fahrkartenautomat druckt die Karte.

The ticket machine is printing the ticket.

Verb 'drucken'.

Gehen Sie zum Fahrkartenautomaten.

Go to the ticket machine.

Dative after 'zu'.

Wenn der Fahrkartenautomat defekt ist, müssen Sie im Zug zahlen.

If the ticket machine is defective, you must pay on the train.

Conditional clause with 'wenn'.

Haben Sie Hilfe am Fahrkartenautomaten gefunden?

Did you find help at the ticket machine?

Perfect tense.

Die Menüs am Fahrkartenautomaten sind oft kompliziert.

The menus on the ticket machine are often complicated.

Plural subject 'Menüs'.

Man kann am Fahrkartenautomaten auch mit Karte zahlen.

One can also pay with a card at the ticket machine.

Impersonal 'man'.

Ich habe mein Wechselgeld am Fahrkartenautomaten vergessen.

I forgot my change at the ticket machine.

Compound noun 'Wechselgeld'.

Der neue Fahrkartenautomat hat einen Touchscreen.

The new ticket machine has a touchscreen.

Adjective declension 'der neue'.

Suchen Sie den Fahrkartenautomaten für die Fernzüge?

Are you looking for the ticket machine for long-distance trains?

Compound noun 'Fernzüge'.

Trotz des Fahrkartenautomaten gab es eine lange Schlange.

Despite the ticket machine, there was a long line.

Genitive case after 'trotz'.

Die Bedienung des Fahrkartenautomaten erfordert etwas Geduld.

Operating the ticket machine requires some patience.

Genitive singular 'des Fahrkartenautomaten'.

Wegen technischer Probleme sind alle Fahrkartenautomaten gesperrt.

Due to technical problems, all ticket machines are blocked.

Passive voice 'sind gesperrt'.

Der Fahrkartenautomat bietet verschiedene Sprachoptionen an.

The ticket machine offers various language options.

Separable verb 'anbieten'.

Man sollte die Quittung vom Fahrkartenautomaten immer aufbewahren.

One should always keep the receipt from the ticket machine.

Subjunctive II 'sollte'.

Der Fahrkartenautomat aktualisiert gerade seine Software.

The ticket machine is currently updating its software.

Possessive pronoun 'seine'.

Es ist schwierig, den Fahrkartenautomaten bei Sonnenlicht zu lesen.

It is difficult to read the ticket machine in sunlight.

Infinitiv mit 'zu'.

Können wir die Gruppenkarte auch am Fahrkartenautomaten lösen?

Can we also get the group ticket at the ticket machine?

Verb 'lösen' used for tickets.

Die Fahrkartenautomaten in dieser Stadt sind sehr modern.

The ticket machines in this city are very modern.

Plural nominative.

Die Benutzeroberfläche des Fahrkartenautomaten wurde intuitiver gestaltet.

The user interface of the ticket machine was designed more intuitively.

Passive voice 'wurde gestaltet'.

Viele Senioren fühlen sich von der Komplexität der Fahrkartenautomaten überfordert.

Many seniors feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the ticket machines.

Reflexive verb 'sich fühlen'.

Die Wartung der Fahrkartenautomaten erfolgt in regelmäßigen Abständen.

Maintenance of the ticket machines takes place at regular intervals.

Noun-verb combination 'Wartung erfolgt'.

Es gab heftige Kritik an der Abschaffung der Schalter zugunsten von Fahrkartenautomaten.

There was heavy criticism of the abolition of counters in favor of ticket machines.

Preposition 'zugunsten von' with dative.

Der Fahrkartenautomat fungiert als Schnittstelle zwischen Fahrgast und Verkehrsbetrieb.

The ticket machine functions as an interface between passenger and transport company.

Verb 'fungieren als'.

Trotz digitaler Apps bleibt der Fahrkartenautomat eine unverzichtbare Infrastruktur.

Despite digital apps, the ticket machine remains an indispensable infrastructure.

Adjective 'unverzichtbar'.

Manche Fahrkartenautomaten akzeptieren mittlerweile kontaktloses Bezahlen.

Some ticket machines now accept contactless payment.

Adverb 'mittlerweile'.

Die Störungsanfälligkeit der Fahrkartenautomaten ist ein häufiges Ärgernis.

The susceptibility of the ticket machines to malfunctions is a frequent nuisance.

Compound noun 'Störungsanfälligkeit'.

Die flächendeckende Installation von Fahrkartenautomaten revolutionierte den Ticketverkauf.

The nationwide installation of ticket machines revolutionized ticket sales.

Präteritum 'revolutionierte'.

Kritiker bemängeln die mangelnde Barrierefreiheit älterer Fahrkartenautomaten.

Critics complain about the lack of accessibility of older ticket machines.

Verb 'bemängeln'.

Inwiefern Fahrkartenautomaten durch mobile Ticketing-Lösungen obsolet werden, bleibt abzuwarten.

To what extent ticket machines will become obsolete due to mobile ticketing solutions remains to be seen.

Indirect question with 'inwiefern'.

Die ergonomische Gestaltung der Fahrkartenautomaten ist Gegenstand zahlreicher Studien.

The ergonomic design of ticket machines is the subject of numerous studies.

Genitive construction.

Der Fahrkartenautomat ist ein Paradebeispiel für die Automatisierung des Dienstleistungssektors.

The ticket machine is a prime example of the automation of the service sector.

Compound 'Dienstleistungssektor'.

Trotz der Digitalisierungswelle behauptet sich der Fahrkartenautomat als fester Bestandteil des Stadtbildes.

Despite the wave of digitalization, the ticket machine holds its ground as a permanent part of the cityscape.

Reflexive 'sich behaupten'.

Die Interaktion am Fahrkartenautomaten spiegelt oft die Frustrationen des modernen Pendlerdaseins wider.

Interaction at the ticket machine often reflects the frustrations of modern commuter life.

Separable verb 'widerspiegeln'.

Die fiskalische Erfassung jedes Verkaufs am Fahrkartenautomaten ist streng reguliert.

The fiscal recording of every sale at the ticket machine is strictly regulated.

Adjective 'fiskalisch'.

Synonymes

der Ticketautomat der Billettaufautomat der Fahrscheinautomat der Verkaufsautomat die Ticketmaschine der Automat das Terminal die Verkaufsstelle

Antonymes

der Fahrkartenschalter das Reisezentrum die App der Schwarzfahrer

Collocations courantes

den Fahrkartenautomaten bedienen

am Fahrkartenautomaten ziehen

ein Ticket am Fahrkartenautomaten lösen

der Fahrkartenautomat ist außer Betrieb

Wechselgeld vom Fahrkartenautomaten

Schlange am Fahrkartenautomaten

Störung am Fahrkartenautomaten

mit Karte am Fahrkartenautomaten zahlen

den Fahrkartenautomaten suchen

Quittung vom Fahrkartenautomaten

Phrases Courantes

Am Automaten

— At the machine. Short for 'at the ticket machine'.

Wir treffen uns am Automaten.

Karte ziehen

— To get/buy a ticket. Literally 'to pull a card'.

Ich muss noch eine Karte ziehen.

Außer Betrieb

— Out of order. Common sign on machines.

Der Automat ist außer Betrieb.

Nur Bargeld

— Cash only. A common limitation of older machines.

Dieser Automat nimmt nur Bargeld.

Kein Wechselgeld

— No change. Warning when the machine can't return coins.

Achtung: Der Automat gibt kein Wechselgeld.

Ticket lösen

— To buy/obtain a ticket.

Haben Sie Ihr Ticket schon gelöst?

Zonen wählen

— To select zones. A common step in using the machine.

Sie müssen erst die Zonen wählen.

Start und Ziel

— Start and destination. The two main inputs required.

Geben Sie Start und Ziel am Automaten ein.

BahnCard-Rabatt

— Discount for BahnCard holders.

Vergessen Sie nicht den BahnCard-Rabatt am Automaten.

Beleg drucken

— To print a receipt.

Möchten Sie einen Beleg drucken?

Souvent confondu avec

der Fahrkartenautomat vs der Parkscheinautomat

Used for parking tickets, not train tickets.

der Fahrkartenautomat vs der Geldautomat

This is an ATM for withdrawing cash.

der Fahrkartenautomat vs der Verkaufsautomat

A general vending machine for snacks or drinks.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Sich wie am Fahrkartenautomaten fühlen"

— To feel like you are just a number or in a very impersonal situation.

In dieser Behörde fühlt man sich wie am Fahrkartenautomaten.

informal

"Am Automaten hängen bleiben"

— To get stuck at the machine (usually because it's confusing).

Ich bin am Automaten hängen geblieben, weil ich die Zonen nicht kannte.

colloquial

"Den Automaten füttern"

— To 'feed' the machine (putting in many coins).

Ich muss erst mal den Automaten mit Kleingeld füttern.

informal

"Eine Karte ziehen"

— To buy a ticket (standard idiom).

Zieh dir schnell eine Karte!

neutral

"Der Automat spinnt"

— The machine is acting crazy/malfunctioning.

Der Automat spinnt und gibt meine Karte nicht heraus.

slang

"Geld schlucken"

— To swallow money (machine takes money but gives nothing).

Der Fahrkartenautomat hat mein Geld geschluckt!

colloquial

"Am Automaten anstehen"

— To queue up at the machine.

Wir mussten ewig am Automaten anstehen.

neutral

"Durch den Automaten blicken"

— To understand the logic of the machine (figurative).

Ich blicke bei diesem neuen Automaten einfach nicht durch.

informal

"Den Automaten leer machen"

— To empty the machine (usually for maintenance/cash collection).

Die Techniker machen gerade den Automaten leer.

neutral

"Am Automaten verzweifeln"

— To despair at the machine (due to complexity).

Viele Touristen verzweifeln am deutschen Fahrkartenautomaten.

neutral

Facile à confondre

der Fahrkartenautomat vs Fahrkarte vs. Fahrschein

Both mean ticket.

Fahrkarte is more formal/train-specific; Fahrschein is used for buses/trams.

Ich habe meine Fahrkarte am Automaten gelöst.

der Fahrkartenautomat vs Automat vs. Automatik

Similar spelling.

Automat is the machine; Automatik is the automatic system (like in a car).

Der Automat funktioniert mit einer speziellen Automatik.

der Fahrkartenautomat vs lösen vs. kaufen

Both used for getting a ticket.

Kaufen is 'to buy'; lösen is specifically 'to obtain/validate' a ticket.

Ich muss noch ein Ticket lösen.

der Fahrkartenautomat vs entwerten vs. stempeln

Both mean to validate.

Entwerten is the formal term; stempeln is more colloquial.

Vergessen Sie nicht, das Ticket nach dem Kauf am Automaten zu entwerten.

der Fahrkartenautomat vs Schalter vs. Automat

Both places to get tickets.

Schalter has a human; Automat is a machine.

Am Schalter war die Schlange länger als am Automaten.

Structures de phrases

Wo ist der [Noun]?

Wo ist der Fahrkartenautomat?

Ich kaufe [Object] am [Noun-Dative].

Ich kaufe ein Ticket am Fahrkartenautomaten.

Wenn der [Noun] [Adjective] ist, ...

Wenn der Fahrkartenautomat kaputt ist, gehe ich zum Schalter.

Die [Noun-Genitive] ist [Adjective].

Die Bedienung des Fahrkartenautomaten ist schwierig.

Trotz [Noun-Genitive] ...

Trotz des modernen Fahrkartenautomaten gab es Probleme.

Es bleibt abzuwarten, inwiefern [Noun] ...

Es bleibt abzuwarten, inwiefern Fahrkartenautomaten noch zeitgemäß sind.

Können Sie mir am [Noun-Dative] helfen?

Können Sie mir am Fahrkartenautomaten helfen?

Der [Noun] nimmt [Payment].

Der Fahrkartenautomat nimmt nur Münzen.

Famille de mots

Noms

die Fahrkarte

der Automat

die Automatisierung

der Fahrschein

die Automatik

Verbes

fahren

automatisieren

lösen

bedienen

Adjectifs

automatisch

fahrbar

fahrplanmäßig

Apparenté

der Bahnsteig

der Schaffner

das Gleis

die Verspätung

der Tarif

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in travel contexts.

Erreurs courantes

Ich stehe vor dem Fahrkartenautomat. → Ich stehe vor dem Fahrkartenautomaten.
Missing the dative 'en' ending required by the N-declension.
Das Fahrkartenautomat ist hier. → Der Fahrkartenautomat ist hier.
Using the wrong gender. 'Automat' is always masculine.
Ich kaufe ein Fahrkarteautomat. → Ich kaufe ein Ticket am Fahrkartenautomaten.
You don't buy the machine; you buy a ticket *at* the machine. Also missing the case ending.
Die Fahrkartenautomate sind neu. → Die Fahrkartenautomaten sind neu.
Incorrect plural form. The plural of 'Automat' is always 'Automaten'.
Fahrkarteautomat (spelling) → Fahrkartenautomat
Missing the 'n' plural connector between 'Fahrkarte' and 'Automat'.

Astuces

Master the N-Declension

Always remember to add '-en' to 'Automat' when it's not the subject. Say 'Ich sehe den Automaten', not 'Ich sehe den Automat'. This is a key B1 grammar point.

Look for the DB Logo

In Germany, red machines belong to Deutsche Bahn and sell long-distance tickets. Other colors usually belong to local transport and only sell city tickets.

Check Payment Methods

Before you start the process, look at the icons on the machine to see if it takes your card. Some older machines are surprisingly picky about non-German cards.

Use 'lösen' for Tickets

While 'kaufen' is fine, using the verb 'lösen' (e.g., 'ein Ticket lösen') sounds much more natural and native when talking about ticket machines.

Keep Your Receipt

Always print the 'Quittung' (receipt). If the machine fails or the ticket is unreadable, the receipt is your only proof of purchase.

Use the App Instead

If the queue at the Fahrkartenautomat is too long, try the 'DB Navigator' app. It's often faster and avoids the physical machine entirely.

Stress the 'ma'

In 'Automat', the stress is on the 'ma' syllable. Say: au-to-MAAAT. This helps native speakers understand you better.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask

If you are stuck, ask 'Können Sie mir helfen?'. Most Germans are happy to help a traveler navigate the complex zoning menus.

Watch for 'Außer Betrieb'

If the screen is dark or shows a red error message, it's 'außer Betrieb'. Don't waste time trying to touch it; find another one.

Swiss Variation

If you are in Switzerland, don't be surprised to see 'Billettaufautomat'. It's the same thing, just a different regional word for ticket.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'Far-Cart-and-Auto-Mate'. You need a ticket to go 'Far', it goes in your 'Cart', and the 'Auto-Mate' (machine) gives it to you.

Association visuelle

Imagine a big, red rectangular robot standing on a platform, holding a stack of tickets in its hand and waiting for your coins.

Word Web

Bahnhof Zug Geld Ticket Reise Display Knopf Quittung

Défi

Try to say 'Der Fahrkartenautomat am Frankfurter Flughafen' five times fast without stumbling over the 'n' in the middle.

Origine du mot

A compound of 'Fahrkarte' (travel card/ticket) and 'Automat' (self-acting machine). 'Fahrkarte' dates back to the early rail era. 'Automat' comes from the Greek 'automatos' meaning 'self-acting'.

Sens originel : A machine that acts on its own to provide travel tickets.

Germanic (Fahr, Karte) and Greek/Latin (Automat).

Contexte culturel

Be aware that older people or people with disabilities may find these machines difficult to use; always offer help if you see someone struggling.

In the UK, it's a 'ticket machine'; in the US, it's often a 'vending machine' or 'kiosk'. The German one is usually more complex due to the zoning system.

Loriot (German comedian) has sketches about the complexity of German bureaucracy/machines. Deutsche Bahn advertisements often feature the machines. Modern German pop songs about city life often mention the 'Automat' on the platform.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At the station

Wo ist der Automat?
Der Automat ist kaputt.
Helfen Sie mir?
Haben Sie Kleingeld?

On the train

Ich habe am Automaten gekauft.
Der Automat ging nicht.
Hier ist mein Beleg.
Gibt es einen Automaten im Zug?

With friends

Warte am Automaten.
Ich ziehe uns Karten.
Hast du Geld für den Automaten?
Der Automat ist neu.

Formal Complaint

Der Automat ist defekt.
Keine Quittung erhalten.
Geld wurde einbehalten.
Display unleserlich.

Directions

Links neben dem Automaten.
Hinter dem Automaten.
Gegenüber vom Automaten.
Direkt am Automaten.

Amorces de conversation

"Wissen Sie, wie man diesen Fahrkartenautomaten bedient?"

"Ist dieser Fahrkartenautomat der einzige hier am Bahnsteig?"

"Akzeptiert der Fahrkartenautomat hier auch Kreditkarten oder nur Bargeld?"

"Warum sind die Menüs am Fahrkartenautomaten eigentlich so kompliziert?"

"Haben Sie auch schon mal Probleme mit einem Fahrkartenautomaten gehabt?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe deine erste Erfahrung mit einem deutschen Fahrkartenautomaten. War es einfach oder schwierig?

Glaubst du, dass wir in zehn Jahren noch Fahrkartenautomaten an den Bahnhöfen brauchen werden?

Stell dir vor, ein Fahrkartenautomat könnte sprechen. Was würde er den wartenden Menschen sagen?

Welche Funktionen sollte ein perfekter Fahrkartenautomat deiner Meinung nach haben?

Schreibe einen Dialog zwischen zwei Touristen, die versuchen, ein Ticket am Automaten zu kaufen.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Most modern machines in Germany accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) and contactless payments like Apple Pay. However, older machines in smaller towns might still only accept coins or German Girocards. It is always best to have some cash as a backup.

This is due to the N-declension. 'Automat' is a masculine noun that requires an '-en' ending in the accusative, dative, and genitive singular cases. For example, 'Ich stehe am Fahrkartenautomaten' (Dative).

Usually, yes, if the machine is owned by Deutsche Bahn (red machines). Local transport machines (often yellow or blue) might only sell tickets for that specific city or region. Look for the DB logo for long-distance travel.

If the machine is 'außer Betrieb', you should look for another one. If there is no other machine, you must inform the conductor immediately upon boarding the train to avoid a fine for 'Schwarzfahren' (fare dodging).

Yes, almost all modern machines have a language selection menu. Look for the flag icons (usually a British or American flag) on the start screen to switch the interface to English.

It depends. If the ticket has a specific date and time printed on it, it is usually already validated. If it is a generic ticket (like a 4-trip ticket), you must use the 'Entwerter' (validator) on the platform or in the bus.

Yes, but not directly from the machine. You must take the receipt or the faulty ticket to a 'Reisezentrum' (travel center) or contact the transport company's customer service to claim a refund.

Yes, they are synonyms. 'Fahrkartenautomat' is the traditional German word, while 'Ticketautomat' uses the English loanword 'Ticket'. Both are widely understood and used.

In the N-declension, the singular (except nominative) and all plural forms share the same ending: '-en'. Context and the article (dem vs. den) tell you if it's one or many.

You can say: 'Der Fahrkartenautomat hat mein Geld geschluckt.' This is a common way to describe a machine taking your money without giving you a ticket.

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