plaudern en 30 secondes
- Informal, friendly chat.
- Lighthearted conversation.
- Casual talk with friends.
- Relaxed discussion of everyday topics.
The German verb plaudern translates directly to 'to chat' or 'to converse lightly' in English. It describes a relaxed, informal conversation where people talk about everyday things, share stories, or simply enjoy each other's company without a specific agenda or deep seriousness. Think of it as a friendly, unhurried exchange of words.
- Informal Gatherings
- Germans often use plaudern when they meet friends or family for coffee, a drink, or a casual get-together. It's the kind of conversation that flows naturally over a shared meal or while sitting on a park bench.
- Workplace Breaks
- Even in a professional setting, colleagues might plaudern during a coffee break or lunch. This isn't about discussing work-related matters but rather about building rapport and fostering a friendly atmosphere.
- Online Conversations
- The term can also extend to online communication, such as chatting in instant messenger apps or on social media. If friends are exchanging lighthearted messages, they are also plaudern.
Wir saßen den ganzen Nachmittag zusammen und plauderten über Gott und die Welt. (We sat together all afternoon and chatted about everything under the sun.)
The essence of plaudern is its informality and lack of pressure. It's about connection and pleasant conversation, distinguishing it from more serious discussions or debates. It implies a comfortable, easy-going interaction where one can relax and express themselves freely.
Nach der Arbeit plaudern wir gerne kurz. (After work, we like to chat briefly.)
It's a word that evokes images of warmth, friendliness, and the simple joy of human interaction. Whether it's catching up with old friends, making new acquaintances, or just passing the time, plaudern captures that lighthearted spirit of conversation.
- Family Gatherings
- At family events, like birthdays or holidays, you'll often hear relatives plaudern, sharing updates about their lives, reminiscing about past events, or discussing current affairs in a relaxed manner.
Die Nachbarn plaudern oft miteinander. (The neighbors often chat with each other.)
The verb is versatile and can describe a brief exchange or a longer, more extended conversation, as long as the tone remains informal and friendly. It's a fundamental part of social interaction in German-speaking cultures, fostering a sense of community and connection.
Using plaudern in a sentence is straightforward, as it’s a regular verb. It follows standard German conjugation patterns. The key is to understand the context in which it’s appropriate: informal, friendly conversations. Here are various ways to incorporate it:
- Present Tense
- The most common usage is in the present tense, describing ongoing or habitual casual conversations.
Wir plaudern gerne am Telefon. (We like to chat on the phone.)
Sie plaudern bei einer Tasse Kaffee. (They are chatting over a cup of coffee.)
- Past Tense (Perfekt)
- To talk about conversations that have already happened, use the Perfekt tense, which is formed with 'haben' and the past participle 'geplaudert'.
Wir haben stundenlang geplaudert. (We chatted for hours.)
Er hat mit seiner alten Freundin lange geplaudert. (He chatted for a long time with his old friend.)
- With Adverbs and Prepositional Phrases
- You can add adverbs or prepositional phrases to specify the manner or location of the chat.
Sie plaudern fröhlich über ihre Urlaube. (They are cheerfully chatting about their vacations.)
Wir plauderten im Garten. (We were chatting in the garden.)
- In Questions
- Asking if someone is chatting or suggesting to chat is also common.
Worüber plauderst du gerade? (What are you chatting about right now?)
Lass uns später kurz plaudern. (Let's chat briefly later.)
When conjugating, remember the stem change in the second and third person singular for many verbs, but 'plaudern' is a regular verb and does not have a stem change. You conjugate it like any other regular verb:
- ich plaudere
- du plauderst
- er/sie/es plaudert
- wir plaudern
- ihr plaudert
- sie/Sie plaudern
The past participle is geplaudert. It's used with the auxiliary verb haben to form the Perfekt tense.
Wir haben uns gut geplaudert. (We had a good chat.)
The verb can also be used reflexively, especially when talking about two or more people chatting with each other: 'sich unterhalten' (to converse) is similar, but 'plaudern' emphasizes the light and informal nature.
Die Kollegen plaudern miteinander über das Wochenende. (The colleagues are chatting with each other about the weekend.)
You'll hear the word plaudern frequently in everyday German conversations, especially in informal settings. It's a staple of casual social interaction, reflecting a desire for friendly, relaxed communication. Here's where you're most likely to encounter it:
- Cafés and Biergartens
- Imagine friends meeting up for coffee or enjoying a sunny afternoon in a Biergarten. The atmosphere is usually filled with the sound of people engaged in lighthearted conversation. Someone might say, 'Wir plaudern hier schon eine Weile.' (We've been chatting here for a while.)
- Family Gatherings and Social Events
- At birthday parties, holiday celebrations, or casual get-togethers with family and friends, plaudern is the natural mode of communication. You might overhear, 'Die Tanten plaudern in der Küche.' (The aunts are chatting in the kitchen.)
- Workplace Break Rooms
- Even in a professional environment, colleagues often take short breaks to chat. This isn't about serious business but about building camaraderie. A common phrase might be, 'Lass uns kurz plaudern.' (Let's have a quick chat.)
Die Kinder plaudern im Schulhof. (The children are chatting in the schoolyard.)
- Online Chats and Social Media
- In the digital realm, when friends exchange casual messages or comments, they are also described as plaudern. For example, 'Wir plaudern auf WhatsApp.' (We're chatting on WhatsApp.)
Sie plauderten über ihre Hobbys. (They chatted about their hobbies.)
The word is common in everyday language and is unlikely to be heard in very formal speeches or academic lectures, unless perhaps someone is describing a social situation. It's a word that embodies the warmth and openness of German social culture.
Die Großeltern plaudern gern mit den Enkeln. (The grandparents like to chat with the grandchildren.)
You might also hear it in more specific contexts, like describing neighbors chatting over the fence or people striking up a conversation while waiting in line. It's a versatile word for any situation where people are engaged in friendly, unhurried talk.
While plaudern is a relatively simple verb, learners might make a few common mistakes. Understanding these pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately and naturally.
- Confusing it with Formal Discussion
- The most frequent error is using plaudern when a more formal verb like 'besprechen' (to discuss) or 'erörtern' (to debate) is needed. Plaudern strictly implies a casual, light, and often friendly conversation. Using it for a serious business meeting or an academic debate would sound inappropriate.
Incorrect: Wir plaudern über die neuen Geschäftsstrategien. (We are chatting about the new business strategies.)
Correct: Wir besprechen die neuen Geschäftsstrategien. (We are discussing the new business strategies.)
- Overuse in Monologues or Serious Conversations
- While plaudern implies a back-and-forth, it's not meant for situations where one person is lecturing or giving a serious, one-sided account. If someone is giving a detailed report or a serious explanation, they are not plaudern.
- Incorrect Verb Conjugation
- Although plaudern is a regular verb, learners might sometimes misconjugate it, especially in the 'ihr' form (you all). Remember: 'ihr plaudert'.
Incorrect: Ihr plaudert. (This is correct, but learners might struggle with it)
Correct: Ihr plaudert. (Standard conjugation)
- Using 'Plaudern' for Gossip
- While plaudern can sometimes involve light gossip, it doesn't carry the same negative or malicious connotation as the English word 'gossip' might. If the conversation is more about spreading rumors or talking negatively about others, 'lästern' (to badmouth) or 'tratschen' (to gossip, often with a slightly negative or idle tone) might be more fitting. However, plaudern is generally positive and friendly.
Neutral: Wir plauderten über das Wetter. (We chatted about the weather.)
Potentially negative: Sie lästern über ihre Kollegen. (They are badmouthing their colleagues.)
By being mindful of the register and the specific nuance of the conversation, you can effectively use plaudern and avoid these common errors.
While plaudern is excellent for describing light, informal chats, German offers a range of words for different types of conversations. Understanding these nuances helps you choose the most precise term.
- Sprechen (to speak, to talk)
- This is the most general verb for speaking or talking. It can be used in almost any context, from formal to informal. If you're not sure, 'sprechen' is a safe bet. Plaudern is a specific type of 'sprechen'.
- Example: 'Wir müssen über dieses Problem sprechen.' (We need to talk about this problem.) - This is more serious than plaudern.
- Reden (to talk, to speak)
- Similar to 'sprechen', but often implies a more conversational or narrative style. It's also quite general and can be informal. 'Reden' can be slightly more active than 'sprechen'.
- Example: 'Sie reden gern über ihre Reisepläne.' (They like to talk about their travel plans.) - This is close to plaudern but can also be more detailed.
- Unterhalten (to converse, to entertain)
- This verb implies a more sustained and engaged conversation, often one where participants are actively keeping each other interested. It can be formal or informal, but it suggests more than just light chit-chat. It can also mean to entertain.
- Example: 'Er unterhielt die Gäste bestens.' (He entertained the guests very well.) or 'Wir unterhielten uns über Kunst.' (We conversed about art.) - This suggests a deeper exchange than plaudern.
- Sich unterhalten (reflexive)
- This reflexive form specifically means 'to converse with each other'. It's very common for general conversations between two or more people.
- Example: 'Die beiden unterhielten sich lange.' (The two of them conversed for a long time.) - Similar to plaudern but can be more about the act of conversing itself.
- Quatschen (to chat, to babble, often informally)
- This is a very informal and colloquial term, similar to 'plaudern' but can sometimes imply talking a lot, perhaps even nonsensically or at length. It's very common among younger people.
- Example: 'Wir haben die ganze Nacht gequatscht.' (We chatted all night.) - More informal and potentially longer than plaudern.
- Plausch (noun: chat, gossip)
- This noun is derived from the verb plaudern and refers to the chat itself. It's also informal.
- Example: 'Wir hatten einen netten Plausch.' (We had a nice chat.)
- Besprechen (to discuss)
- This verb is used for more serious discussions where specific topics are covered, often with a goal or purpose. It's the opposite of plaudern in terms of formality and seriousness.
- Example: 'Wir müssen die Details des Projekts besprechen.' (We need to discuss the details of the project.)
Plaudern: Light, friendly chat among friends.
Quatschen: Very informal, can be long-winded or silly chat.
Sich unterhalten: General conversation with others.
Besprechen: To discuss a topic, often seriously.
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The Latin root 'plaudere' also gave rise to words like 'plausibel' (plausible) in German and 'plauditory' in English, indicating a concept of expressing something, which in the case of 'plaudern' evolved into expressing oneself in conversation. The connection to applause might hint at an early form of positive social interaction or expression.
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing the 'au' as two separate vowels instead of a diphthong.
- Over-pronouncing the 'r' sound at the end, making it too strong.
- Confusing the stress pattern with other German verbs.
Niveau de difficulté
The word itself is easy to read and pronounce. Understanding its nuances in different contexts requires some exposure to informal German conversation.
Conjugating 'plaudern' is straightforward as it's a regular verb. The main challenge is knowing when to use it versus other verbs for conversation.
Pronunciation is relatively easy. Using it appropriately in spontaneous conversation requires a good feel for informal German social situations.
The word is common in informal spoken German, so recognizing it in context is important for understanding casual conversations.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Conjugation of regular verbs in the present tense.
Ich plaudere, du plauderst, er/sie/es plaudert, wir plaudern, ihr plaudert, sie/Sie plaudern.
Formation of the Perfekt tense with 'haben'.
Ich habe geplaudert. Du hast geplaudert. Er hat geplaudert. Wir haben geplaudert. Ihr habt geplaudert. Sie haben geplaudert.
Use of modal verbs with infinitive clauses.
Ich möchte mit dir plaudern. (I want to chat with you.)
Subordinate clauses introduced by 'weil', 'dass', 'obwohl'.
Wir plaudern, weil wir uns gut verstehen. (We chat because we get along well.)
Use of prepositional phrases (e.g., mit, über, in).
Wir plaudern mit Freunden über das Wochenende. (We chat with friends about the weekend.)
Exemples par niveau
Wir plaudern.
We chat.
Simple present tense, plural subject.
Sie plaudern.
They chat.
Simple present tense, third person plural.
Ich plaudere.
I chat.
Simple present tense, first person singular.
Er plaudert.
He chats.
Simple present tense, third person singular.
Du plauderst.
You chat.
Simple present tense, second person singular.
Ihr plaudert.
You (plural) chat.
Simple present tense, second person plural.
Wir haben geplaudert.
We chatted.
Perfekt tense, past participle 'geplaudert'.
Sie hat geplaudert.
She chatted.
Perfekt tense, third person singular with past participle.
Wir plaudern gerne über das Wetter.
We like to chat about the weather.
Present tense with an adverbial phrase.
Sie plaudern im Garten.
They are chatting in the garden.
Present tense with a prepositional phrase indicating location.
Ich habe mit meiner Nachbarin geplaudert.
I chatted with my neighbor.
Perfekt tense with a prepositional phrase.
Er plaudert mit seinem Freund.
He is chatting with his friend.
Present tense with a prepositional phrase.
Worüber plaudert ihr?
What are you (plural) chatting about?
Question in present tense.
Lass uns ein bisschen plaudern.
Let's chat a bit.
Imperative mood, suggestion.
Sie haben lange geplaudert.
They chatted for a long time.
Perfekt tense with an adverb of duration.
Meine Eltern plaudern am Telefon.
My parents chat on the phone.
Present tense with a common context.
Wir saßen zusammen und plauderten über alte Zeiten.
We sat together and chatted about old times.
Past tense (Präteritum) and present tense of 'plaudern' in a compound sentence.
Nach der Arbeit plaudern die Kollegen gerne kurz.
After work, the colleagues like to chat briefly.
Present tense with a temporal phrase and an adverb.
Sie hat mir von ihrem Urlaub erzählt und wir haben viel geplaudert.
She told me about her vacation and we chatted a lot.
Compound sentence using Perfekt tense.
Ich konnte nicht anders, als mit der netten Verkäuferin zu plaudern.
I couldn't help but chat with the nice saleswoman.
Modal verb 'konnte' with infinitive clause.
Sollten wir uns nicht mal wieder zusammensetzen und ein wenig plaudern?
Shouldn't we get together again sometime and chat a little?
Subjunctive II for a polite suggestion.
Die Nachbarn plaudern oft über den Gartenzaun hinweg.
The neighbors often chat over the garden fence.
Present tense with a specific idiomatic phrase.
Wir haben uns so gut geplaudert, dass die Zeit wie im Flug verging.
We chatted so well that time flew by.
Perfekt tense with a subordinate clause of result.
Er plaudert gern aus dem Nähkästchen.
He likes to spill the beans (chat intimately).
Idiomatic expression with 'plaudern'.
Anstatt sich ernsthaft zu unterhalten, plauderten die beiden nur über Belanglosigkeiten.
Instead of conversing seriously, the two of them only chatted about trivialities.
Subordinate clause with 'anstatt' and contrasting verbs.
Manchmal ist es wohltuend, einfach nur mit jemandem zu plaudern, ohne über tiefgründige Themen sprechen zu müssen.
Sometimes it's soothing to just chat with someone without having to talk about profound topics.
Infinitive clause with 'zu' and contrasting concepts.
Sie plauderte beiläufig über ihre Pläne, was mich sehr neugierig machte.
She casually chatted about her plans, which made me very curious.
Present tense with an adverb and a relative clause.
Obwohl sie sich kaum kannten, plauderten sie wie alte Freunde.
Although they barely knew each other, they chatted like old friends.
Concessive clause with 'obwohl'.
Er nutzte die Gelegenheit, um mit der wichtigen Person zu plaudern.
He took the opportunity to chat with the important person.
Infinitive clause with 'um...zu'.
Die Atmosphäre im Raum lud zum Plaudern ein.
The atmosphere in the room invited chatting.
Noun form 'Plaudern' as the object of 'einladen'.
Sie hatten sich so viel zu erzählen, dass sie fast den ganzen Abend geplaudert haben.
They had so much to tell each other that they chatted almost the entire evening.
Subordinate clause of result with 'so...dass'.
Er plauderte aus der Schule, was ihm später Ärger einbrachte.
He let slip some school gossip, which later got him into trouble.
Idiomatic usage of 'plaudern' with a relative clause.
Die langwierige Konversation, die manchem als bloßes Plaudern erschien, war für die beiden Verhandlungspartner essenziell.
The lengthy conversation, which seemed like mere chatting to some, was essential for the two negotiation partners.
Complex sentence with apposition and contrasting views.
Es ist bemerkenswert, wie schnell Fremde bei einem ungezwungenen Anlass zu plaudern beginnen können.
It is remarkable how quickly strangers can start chatting on a casual occasion.
Subordinate clause with 'wie' and the noun form 'Plaudern'.
Ihre Fähigkeit, selbst in angespannten Situationen eine lockere Atmosphäre zu schaffen und mit jedem zu plaudern, war eine ihrer größten Stärken.
Her ability to create a relaxed atmosphere even in tense situations and to chat with anyone was one of her greatest strengths.
Gerundive phrase and coordinating conjunctions.
Manche Kritiker warfen dem Film vor, lediglich eine Aneinanderreihung von oberflächlichem Plaudern zu sein.
Some critics accused the film of merely being a series of superficial chats.
Noun form 'Plaudern' as the object of a preposition.
Er plauderte so eloquent über die Kunst, dass man fast vergaß, dass dies nur ein informelles Gespräch war.
He chatted so eloquently about art that one almost forgot that this was just an informal conversation.
Subordinate clause of result and contrast.
Die Kunst des diplomatischen Plauderns erfordert Fingerspitzengefühl und ein tiefes Verständnis für soziale Dynamiken.
The art of diplomatic chatting requires tact and a deep understanding of social dynamics.
Abstract noun phrase with 'Plaudern'.
Sie plauderte unbekümmert drauf los, während die anderen über die ernsten Konsequenzen nachdachten.
She chatted away unconcernedly while the others were thinking about the serious consequences.
Adverbial phrase and contrasting actions.
Diese Art von Plauderei, so trivial sie auch erscheinen mag, ist oft der Kitt, der soziale Bindungen zusammenhält.
This kind of chatter, however trivial it may seem, is often the glue that holds social bonds together.
Noun form 'Plauderei' (derived from Plaudern) and metaphorical language.
Es war eine subtile Kunst, das scheinbar harmlose Plaudern dazu zu nutzen, um sensible Informationen zu entlocken.
It was a subtle art to use the seemingly harmless chatting to elicit sensitive information.
Complex sentence structure with abstract concepts and nuanced vocabulary.
Die Fähigkeit, aus dem Nähkästchen zu plaudern, ohne dabei die Grenzen des Anstands zu überschreiten, kennzeichnete seine Persönlichkeit.
The ability to spill the beans without crossing the boundaries of decorum characterized his personality.
Idiomatic phrase with complex sentence structure and abstract nouns.
Ihre Konversation war ein fließender Übergang vom Plaudern über Alltägliches bis hin zu tiefgründigen philosophischen Erörterungen.
Their conversation was a smooth transition from chatting about everyday matters to profound philosophical discussions.
Abstract noun phrase and contrasting concepts.
Er plauderte in einem Ton, der sowohl Vertrautheit als auch eine gewisse professionelle Distanz suggerierte.
He chatted in a tone that suggested both familiarity and a certain professional distance.
Adverbial clause of manner and nuanced description.
Das schelmische Grinsen auf seinem Gesicht verriet, dass er mehr wusste, als er zugab, während er so unschuldig zu plaudern schien.
The mischievous grin on his face revealed that he knew more than he admitted, while he seemed to chat so innocently.
Complex sentence with participial phrases and contrasting actions.
In der Kunst des politischen Plauderns geht es darum, durch scheinbar belanglose Bemerkungen subtile Botschaften zu vermitteln.
In the art of political chatting, it is about conveying subtle messages through seemingly irrelevant remarks.
Abstract noun phrase and complex sentence structure.
Sie plauderte mit einer Leichtigkeit, die die Schwere der zugrundeliegenden Problematik fast vergessen ließ.
She chatted with an ease that almost made one forget the gravity of the underlying problem.
Subordinate clause of result and abstract vocabulary.
Manche bezeichnen sein Geschwätz als Plaudern, doch verbirgt sich dahinter oft eine geschickte Manipulation.
Some call his prattling chatting, but often behind it lies skillful manipulation.
Contrast between perceived and actual meaning.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— Let's chat. This is a direct invitation to engage in a casual conversation.
Es ist so schön, dich zu sehen! Lass uns plaudern.
— We chatted. Used to describe a past casual conversation.
Wir haben uns gestern Abend lange unterhalten und viel geplaudert.
— To like to chat. Indicates a preference for informal conversation.
Sie plaudert gerne mit ihren Nachbarn über den Gartenzaun.
— To chat about everything and anything. A common idiom for a very wide-ranging, informal conversation.
Wir saßen stundenlang zusammen und plauderten über Gott und die Welt.
— To chat just a little. Implies a short, casual conversation.
Ich wollte dich nur kurz anrufen, um ein bisschen zu plaudern.
— To meet up for a chat. Indicates a social gathering with the primary purpose of informal conversation.
Wir treffen uns morgen im Café, um ein bisschen zu plaudern.
— While chatting. Used to describe an action that happens during a casual conversation.
Beim Plaudern vergaßen sie die Zeit.
— The chat/chatter. Refers to the act or the sound of casual conversation.
Das Plaudern im Hintergrund störte meine Konzentration.
— To chat informally/casually. Emphasizes the relaxed and unforced nature of the conversation.
Es ist schön, mit dir ungezwungen plaudern zu können.
— To look forward to a chat. Expresses anticipation for a casual conversation.
Ich freue mich schon auf unser Treffen und ein bisschen zu plaudern.
Souvent confondu avec
'Quatschen' is very similar but often implies talking a lot, perhaps more excessively or nonsensically than 'plaudern', which is generally more pleasant and concise.
'Sich unterhalten' is a broader term for conversing and can be used in more formal contexts, whereas 'plaudern' is specifically for light, informal chats.
'Diskutieren' implies a more serious discussion or debate, often with differing viewpoints, which is the opposite of the relaxed nature of 'plaudern'.
Expressions idiomatiques
— To spill the beans; to reveal personal or private information, often in a gossipy or intimate way.
Sie plauderte aus dem Nähkästchen und erzählte uns die neuesten Gerüchte über den Chef.
informal— To chat about everything and anything; to have a wide-ranging, informal conversation covering many topics.
Wir saßen stundenlang zusammen und plauderten über Gott und die Welt, bis spät in die Nacht.
informal— To chat like old women; often implies gossiping or talking idly about trivial matters, sometimes with a slightly critical tone.
Sie saßen zusammen und plauderten wie die alten Weiber über die Nachbarn.
informal, can be slightly dismissive— To get engrossed in conversation; to become so absorbed in chatting that one loses track of time or surroundings.
Die beiden Kolleginnen vertieften sich ins Plaudern und vergaßen ihre Arbeit.
informal— To have a serious word (though 'plaudern' usually implies light talk, this can be a euphemism for a serious but perhaps gently delivered conversation).
Ich muss mal ein ernstes Wort mit dir plaudern über dein Verhalten.
slightly ironic or euphemistic— To reveal a little bit of personal or private information.
Er plauderte nur ein bisschen aus dem Nähkästchen, um die Stimmung aufzulockern.
informal— To chat lightheartedly and carefree.
Sie plauderten unbeschwert über ihre Sommerferien.
informal— To chat in between; to have a brief casual conversation during another activity.
Wir plauderten zwischendurch ein wenig, um uns aufzulockern.
informal— To chat animatedly or engagingly.
Sie plauderten sich angeregt über ihre gemeinsamen Interessen.
informal— The act of chatting about... (used as a noun phrase).
Das Plaudern über das Wetter ist ein beliebter Zeitvertreib.
neutral to informalFacile à confondre
Both refer to informal talking.
'Plaudern' is generally a pleasant, light, and friendly chat. 'Quatschen' can also be pleasant but often implies talking a lot, potentially rambling or even nonsensically. It's more colloquial and sometimes suggests idle talk.
Wir haben lange geplaudert. (We chatted for a long time - pleasant). Wir haben die ganze Nacht gequatscht. (We chatted all night - implies a lot of talking, possibly less focused).
Both mean to converse.
'Sich unterhalten' is a more general term for conversation and can be used in formal or informal settings. It simply means to talk with someone. 'Plaudern' specifically refers to a light, friendly, and informal chat, often about everyday topics.
Sie unterhalten sich über Politik. (They are discussing politics - could be serious). Sie plaudern über das Wetter. (They are chatting about the weather - light and informal).
Both are verbs for talking.
'Reden' is a very general term for talking. 'Plaudern' is a specific type of 'reden' – a casual, friendly chat. You can 'reden' about anything, seriously or casually, but 'plaudern' is reserved for the casual, friendly kind.
Er redet viel. (He talks a lot - general). Er plaudert gern. (He likes to chat - specifically informal and friendly).
Both involve talking about something.
'Besprechen' means 'to discuss' and implies a more focused, often serious conversation about a particular topic, with a goal of understanding or resolving something. 'Plaudern' is about light, unhurried conversation without a specific agenda.
Wir müssen das Projekt besprechen. (We need to discuss the project - serious). Wir plaudern über das Wochenende. (We chat about the weekend - casual).
Both mean to chat.
'Schwatzen' is informal and similar to 'plaudern' and 'quatschen'. It can sometimes imply talking at length or idly, similar to 'quatschen', but is generally considered a synonym for a friendly chat.
Die Frauen schwatzen über die neuesten Modetrends. (The women are chatting about the latest fashion trends - informal and friendly, similar to 'plaudern').
Structures de phrases
Subject + plaudern.
Wir plaudern.
Subject + plaudern + Adverb.
Sie plaudern heute.
Subject + haben + geplaudert.
Ich habe geplaudert.
Subject + plaudern + Prepositional Phrase.
Er plaudert im Garten.
Worüber + plaudern + Subject?
Worüber plaudert ihr?
Lass + uns + plaudern.
Lass uns plaudern.
Subject + plaudern + Adverb + als ob + Subordinate Clause.
Sie plauderte, als ob sie keine Sorgen hätte.
The + Noun (Plaudern/Plausch) + Verb.
Das Plaudern fiel ihnen leicht.
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
High in informal spoken German.
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Using 'plaudern' for formal discussions.
→
Using 'diskutieren' or 'besprechen'.
Plaudern is exclusively for informal, light chats. Serious topics require more formal verbs. For example, discussing business strategies is 'besprechen', not 'plaudern'.
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Confusing 'plaudern' with 'quatschen' in terms of length.
→
Using 'plaudern' for pleasant, concise chats and 'quatschen' for longer, potentially rambling ones.
'Plaudern' implies a friendly, light conversation. 'Quatschen' can also be friendly but often suggests talking a lot, possibly without much substance, or for an extended period.
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Incorrect conjugation of the past participle.
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Using 'geplaudert'.
The past participle is regular: geplaudert. Learners might mistakenly use 'geplaudert' in the wrong tense or forget the 'ge-' prefix.
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Applying 'plaudern' to a monologue.
→
Using 'sprechen', 'erzählen', or 'vortragen'.
'Plaudern' implies an exchange between two or more people. If someone is giving a speech or a long, one-sided explanation, they are not 'plaudern'.
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Overusing 'plaudern' in professional contexts.
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Using 'sich unterhalten' or 'besprechen' for more general or work-related conversations.
While colleagues might 'plaudern' during a break, actual work discussions would use more formal terms. 'Plaudern' is for rapport-building, not task-oriented talk.
Astuces
Master the Context
The most important aspect of using 'plaudern' correctly is understanding its informal and friendly context. It's for lighthearted conversations with people you know well or in relaxed social settings. Avoid using it for formal discussions or serious matters.
Pronounce the Diphthong
Pay attention to the 'au' sound in 'plaudern'. It's a diphthong, pronounced like the 'ow' in the English word 'cow' or 'loud'. Ensure you blend the two vowel sounds smoothly.
Expand Your Chatting Vocabulary
While 'plaudern' is great for general chats, learn related words like 'quatschen' (more colloquial, can imply talking a lot) and 'sich unterhalten' (to converse, more general) to express nuances in different types of informal conversations.
Regular Verb, Easy Conjugation
'Plaudern' is a regular verb. Practice conjugating it in the present and past (Perfekt) tenses. Remember the past participle is 'geplaudert'.
Use it Actively
Don't just learn the definition; try to use 'plaudern' in your own sentences. Describe casual conversations you have or imagine having. The more you use it, the more natural it will feel.
Embrace the Social Aspect
In German culture, informal chats ('Plaudern') are important for building relationships. Embrace this aspect of social interaction to connect better with German speakers.
Contrast with Formal Verbs
Always contrast 'plaudern' with verbs used for formal discussions like 'diskutieren' or 'besprechen'. This contrast will solidify your understanding of when to use each word appropriately.
Learn Idiomatic Uses
Explore idiomatic phrases like 'aus dem Nähkästchen plaudern' (to spill the beans) or 'über Gott und die Welt plaudern' (to chat about everything and anything) to add richness to your vocabulary.
Listen for Context
When you hear 'plaudern', pay close attention to the surrounding conversation and the setting. This will help you intuitively grasp the appropriate contexts for its use.
Role-Play Casual Chats
Practice role-playing casual conversations with a language partner. Try to naturally incorporate 'plaudern' when describing the interaction.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine someone 'plodding' along a path, and as they 'plod', they are 'plaudering' (chatting) with someone they meet. The sound 'plod' can remind you of 'plaud', and the continuous action of walking while chatting helps visualize the relaxed nature of the word.
Association visuelle
Picture two people sitting on a park bench, relaxed and smiling, engaged in a light conversation. One person might be holding a cup of coffee, symbolizing the casual setting. The scene should evoke warmth and ease.
Word Web
Défi
Try to use 'plaudern' in at least three different sentences describing casual conversations you've had or imagine having. Focus on the feeling of ease and friendliness.
Origine du mot
The word 'plaudern' originates from the Middle High German 'blūdern' or 'plūdern', which also meant to chat or talk idly. It is related to the Latin word 'plaudere', meaning 'to clap', 'to applaud', or 'to express approval'. This connection suggests an origin related to expressing oneself, perhaps initially through sounds or gestures that evolved into spoken words.
Sens originel : To chat, talk idly, converse lightly.
Germanic, Indo-European.Contexte culturel
There are no particular sensitivities associated with the word 'plaudern' itself; it is a neutral and positive term for casual conversation.
The concept of light, friendly chat is universal. In English, we have 'to chat', 'to natter', 'to shoot the breeze', or 'small talk', all of which align with the meaning of 'plaudern'.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Meeting friends for coffee
- Lass uns einen Kaffee trinken und plaudern.
- Wir haben uns lange über alles Mögliche geplaudert.
- Der Kaffee war gut, und das Plaudern hat Spaß gemacht.
Family gatherings
- Die Tanten plaudern in der Küche.
- Wir haben mit den Großeltern über alte Zeiten geplaudert.
- Es ist schön, mit der Familie zu plaudern.
Workplace breaks
- Lass uns kurz plaudern, bevor die nächste Besprechung beginnt.
- Wir plaudern gerne in der Kaffeepause.
- Ein bisschen plaudern lockert die Stimmung auf.
Online chat
- Wir plaudern auf WhatsApp.
- Ich schreibe dir später, dann können wir plaudern.
- Das Online-Forum lädt zum Plaudern ein.
Meeting new people
- Es ist einfach, mit ihm zu plaudern.
- Wir plauderten über unsere Hobbys.
- Ein ungezwungenes Plaudern hilft, sich kennenzulernen.
Amorces de conversation
"Was machst du gerade? Lass uns ein bisschen plaudern!"
"Wie war dein Tag? Ich würde gerne mit dir plaudern."
"Hast du Lust, dich später kurz zu treffen und zu plaudern?"
"Ich habe etwas Interessantes gehört, lass uns darüber plaudern!"
"Es ist so schön, dich zu sehen. Lass uns einfach ein bisschen plaudern."
Sujets d'écriture
Describe a time you had a really enjoyable chat ('plaudern') with someone. Who was it, where were you, and what did you talk about?
Think about the difference between 'plaudern' and a serious discussion. When is each appropriate?
Imagine you meet a new neighbor. What might you 'plaudern' about to get to know them?
Write a short dialogue between two friends who haven't seen each other in a while and are catching up by 'plaudern'.
How important is 'plaudern' in your own culture? What are similar activities or words?
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, 'plaudern' is almost exclusively used for informal, light, and friendly conversations. You would not use it for serious discussions, formal meetings, or debates. Think of it as chatting with friends or acquaintances.
'Plaudern' is a pleasant, friendly, and light chat. 'Quatschen' is also informal but can sometimes imply talking a lot, perhaps rambling or even nonsensically. It's more colloquial and often suggests a longer, less focused conversation than 'plaudern'.
Yes, absolutely. If you are chatting casually with friends via text messages, social media, or online forums, you can say you are 'plaudern'. For example, 'Wir plaudern auf WhatsApp'.
The past participle is 'geplaudert'. It is used with the auxiliary verb 'haben' to form the Perfekt tense, for example: 'Wir haben lange geplaudert' (We chatted for a long time).
Yes, the most common noun form is 'der Plausch', meaning 'a chat' or 'a friendly conversation'. You can also use 'das Plaudern' (the act of chatting) or 'die Plauderei' (chatter, light conversation).
'Sprechen' and 'reden' are general terms for talking. You use 'plaudern' when you want to specifically emphasize that the conversation is light, informal, and friendly, like when you're catching up with friends about everyday things.
No, 'plaudern' is not suitable for serious topics. It implies a relaxed atmosphere and light subjects. For serious topics, you would use verbs like 'diskutieren' (to discuss), 'besprechen' (to discuss), or 'erörtern' (to debate).
Good equivalents include 'to chat', 'to have a natter', 'to shoot the breeze', or 'to have a friendly talk'. The key is the informality and pleasantness.
It is very common in informal spoken German. You will hear it frequently in everyday situations among friends, family, and colleagues in casual settings.
Generally, no. 'Plaudern' is a positive term. However, if used ironically or in contrast to a serious situation, it might imply a lack of seriousness. But in its standard usage, it's friendly and pleasant.
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Summary
Plaudern means to chat in a relaxed, informal, and friendly manner, focusing on everyday topics and building rapport, rather than serious discussion.
- Informal, friendly chat.
- Lighthearted conversation.
- Casual talk with friends.
- Relaxed discussion of everyday topics.
Master the Context
The most important aspect of using 'plaudern' correctly is understanding its informal and friendly context. It's for lighthearted conversations with people you know well or in relaxed social settings. Avoid using it for formal discussions or serious matters.
Pronounce the Diphthong
Pay attention to the 'au' sound in 'plaudern'. It's a diphthong, pronounced like the 'ow' in the English word 'cow' or 'loud'. Ensure you blend the two vowel sounds smoothly.
Expand Your Chatting Vocabulary
While 'plaudern' is great for general chats, learn related words like 'quatschen' (more colloquial, can imply talking a lot) and 'sich unterhalten' (to converse, more general) to express nuances in different types of informal conversations.
Regular Verb, Easy Conjugation
'Plaudern' is a regular verb. Practice conjugating it in the present and past (Perfekt) tenses. Remember the past participle is 'geplaudert'.
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abonnieren
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Absage
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absagen
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Abschied
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Ähnlichkeit
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Akzent
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anbieten
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