At the A1 level, 'schade' is taught as a simple, high-frequency interjection. Students learn to use it as a one-word reaction to disappointment. For example, if a teacher says, 'Wir haben heute keine Hausaufgaben,' a student might jokingly say 'Schade!' (though usually, they are happy). More realistically, it is used when someone says they cannot attend a party. At this level, the focus is on the meaning 'too bad' or 'pity.' Students are not yet expected to master the complex 'dass' clauses that often follow 'schade.' They use it to show basic empathy and social awareness in German. It's a 'survival word' for social politeness. You hear it, you say it, and everyone understands the emotion behind it. It requires no conjugation and no case changes, making it a very safe word for beginners to use to sound more natural. The emphasis is on the 'Sch' sound and the final 'e' which must be pronounced clearly but softly. A1 learners should focus on the 'Ach, schade!' or 'Wie schade!' patterns as they are easy to memorize and very effective in conversation.
At the A2 level, learners begin to expand their use of 'schade' by integrating it into full sentences. This is where the 'Es ist schade, dass...' construction is introduced. A2 students learn that 'dass' triggers a specific word order where the verb goes to the end. This is a critical grammatical milestone. They also learn to use 'schade' with 'um' and the accusative case to express that something was a waste, such as 'schade um die Zeit' (a pity about the time). At this level, students should be able to explain *why* something is a pity, not just react with a single word. They also start to distinguish between 'schade' and 'leider.' While 'leider' is used to state a fact ('Ich habe leider kein Geld'), 'schade' is used to express the feeling about that fact ('Es ist schade, dass ich kein Geld habe'). A2 learners are encouraged to use 'schade' to be more expressive in their speaking exams, showing they can handle both emotional expression and subordinating conjunctions.
By B1, students are expected to use 'schade' with more nuance and in a wider variety of contexts. They learn to use intensifiers like 'wirklich,' 'echt,' and 'zu' to vary the strength of their disappointment. B1 learners also encounter 'schade' in more formal contexts, such as business emails where a polite rejection is needed. They start to see the word in the context of 'finden' ('Ich finde es schade, dass...'), which allows them to express personal opinions more clearly. At this level, the focus shifts slightly towards 'social appropriateness'—knowing when 'schade' is enough and when a more formal word like 'bedauerlich' might be better. They also learn the difference between 'schade' and 'ein Jammer,' understanding that 'ein Jammer' carries much more weight. B1 students should be able to use 'schade' in a narrative context, for example, when telling a story about a trip that didn't go as planned, using the word to punctuate the disappointments in the story.
At the B2 level, 'schade' is used to discuss more abstract concepts and social issues. A B2 learner might say, 'Es ist schade, dass die politische Beteiligung so gering ist' (It's a pity that political participation is so low). The word becomes a tool for social commentary. Students also learn more idiomatic uses and are expected to recognize sarcasm when 'schade' is used. They study the etymological connection to 'Schaden' and 'schädlich' more deeply, which helps them understand the linguistic family of the word. B2 learners are also expected to use the 'schade um...' construction perfectly with the correct accusative endings. They might also encounter 'schade' in more complex grammatical structures, such as the subjunctive (Konjunktiv II): 'Es wäre schade, wenn wir uns nicht treffen würden.' This adds a layer of hypothetical regret, which is a key B1/B2 transition point. Their vocabulary expands to include more sophisticated alternatives like 'bedauernswert' or 'beklagenswert'.
C1 learners explore the literary and stylistic uses of 'schade.' They might analyze how authors use the word to create a sense of 'Resignation' or 'Melancholie' in a text. At this level, 'schade' is often used in complex argumentative structures to acknowledge a counter-argument before dismissing it or to express a sophisticated sense of irony. The learner understands the subtle social 'face-saving' functions of the word in high-level negotiations. They can also distinguish between the standard 'schade' and more archaic or regional variations like 'schade drum' or 'ewig schade' in a way that sounds native. C1 students are expected to have a near-native feel for the 'prosody' of the word—how the intonation can change 'schade' from a polite reflex to a deep, heartfelt expression of regret. They also learn to use 'schade' in the context of 'Verschwendung' (waste) in more academic or technical discussions about resources or missed opportunities in history.
At the C2 level, the learner has a complete mastery of 'schade' and all its synonyms, using them with the precision of a native speaker. They can use the word in high-level rhetorical contexts, perhaps in a speech or a formal essay, to lament a lost cultural heritage or a missed historical chance. They are familiar with the word's presence in German idioms, proverbs, and even song lyrics (like 'Schade, dass man Wein nicht beißen kann'). The C2 learner understands the historical development of the word from Middle High German 'schade' and how its meaning has shifted from physical harm to emotional regret. They can navigate the fine line between 'schade,' 'bedauerlich,' 'traurig,' and 'tragisch' with absolute confidence, choosing the word that fits the exact social and emotional temperature of the moment. For a C2 learner, 'schade' is no longer just a vocabulary item but a flexible instrument for expressing the subtle disappointments of the human condition in the German language.

schade 30秒で

  • Schade is the standard German way to express 'What a pity' or 'Too bad' in almost any everyday situation involving disappointment.
  • It can be used as a single-word exclamation or in the common sentence structure 'Es ist schade, dass...', which requires verb-final word order.
  • The word is versatile, used for everything from missing a bus to expressing regret in professional rejections, but not for deep personal tragedies.
  • Common intensifiers include 'wie', 'zu', and 'wirklich', while 'schade um' is used specifically to lament a waste of something valuable.
The German word schade is one of the most essential tools in a German learner's emotional toolkit. Primarily functioning as an interjection or a predicative adjective, it translates most directly to the English phrases 'What a pity,' 'That's too bad,' or 'It's a shame.' Unlike many other German words that carry a heavy, specific weight, schade is versatile, light enough for everyday disappointments, yet sincere enough to express genuine regret. When you hear a German speaker exclaim 'Schade!' in isolation, they are reacting to a missed opportunity, a bit of bad luck, or a plan that has fallen through. It is the linguistic equivalent of a sympathetic shrug or a sigh of minor disappointment. In social interactions, using schade is a crucial way to show empathy without necessarily needing to provide a lengthy explanation or a formal apology. It acknowledges that a situation is suboptimal.
Grammatical Nature
While often appearing alone, it is technically an adjective that originated from the noun 'Schaden' (damage/harm). However, in modern usage, it almost exclusively appears as a predicate ('Das ist schade') or as an exclamation.
Emotional Range
It covers everything from losing a coin ('Schade!') to a friend being unable to attend a wedding ('Wie schade, dass du nicht kommen kannst').
Frequency
It is extremely common in spoken German, appearing in almost every conversation where a plan is discussed and rejected.

Das Konzert ist ausverkauft. Schade!

Beyond simple disappointment, schade serves as a polite way to decline an invitation indirectly or to react to news that doesn't affect you personally but requires a social response. For example, if a colleague mentions they missed their train, saying 'Ach, wie schade' is the standard polite reaction. It builds a bridge of common understanding. Historically, the word is linked to the idea of 'scathe' or 'harm,' suggesting that the situation has 'suffered' a loss of potential. In a philosophical sense, schade laments the gap between what is and what could have been. It is rarely used for tragic events like a death; in those cases, 'mein Beileid' or 'das tut mir leid' is appropriate. Schade is reserved for the 'pity' of lost opportunities.

Es ist schade um das schöne Geld.

This specific construction 'schade um...' implies a waste of resources or effort. It highlights that something valuable has been spent or lost without the desired result. In the workplace, a manager might say, 'Es ist schade, dass das Projekt abgebrochen wurde,' acknowledging the team's effort while confirming the negative outcome.
Social Function
It acts as a 'softener' in conversation, making negative news easier to digest.

Echt schade, dass du heute arbeiten musst.

Finally, the word is often used with 'eigentlich' (actually/really) to express a deeper, more reflective disappointment: 'Eigentlich ist es schade, dass wir uns so selten sehen.' This adds a layer of genuine sentiment to the interaction.
Using schade correctly involves understanding its syntactic flexibility. While 'Schade!' can stand alone as a complete sentence, it often acts as the predicate in a larger structure. The most common construction is 'Es ist schade, dass...', which translates to 'It is a pity that...'. Note that because dass is a subordinating conjunction, the conjugated verb must move to the very end of the clause. This is a common stumbling block for English speakers who want to say 'Schade, dass er ist nicht hier' instead of the correct 'Schade, dass er nicht hier ist.'
The 'Dass' Clause
Structure: [Es ist] schade, dass + Subject + ... + Verb. Example: 'Schade, dass die Sonne nicht scheint.'
The 'Um' Construction
Structure: [Es ist] schade um + Accusative Object. This implies a waste. Example: 'Es ist schade um den Wein.'

Zu schade, dass wir uns verpasst haben!

Another powerful way to use schade is with 'zu' (too). 'Zu schade' is equivalent to 'too bad' or 'such a shame.' This is often used when the disappointment is significant but still within the realm of everyday life. You can also intensify it with 'wirklich' (really) or 'echt' (really/truly). 'Das ist wirklich schade' sounds more sincere and less like a reflex. When using schade in the middle of a sentence, it usually follows the verb 'sein'. For example: 'Ich finde es schade, dass...' (I find it a pity that...). This is a very common way to express a personal opinion or feeling about a situation. It is slightly more subjective than 'Es ist schade.'

Ich finde es schade, dass du schon gehen musst.

You might also encounter the word in the context of 'Schade drum' (pity about that), which is a shortened version of 'Es ist schade darum.' This is used when referring back to a previously mentioned situation or object that has been wasted or lost.
Positioning
As an interjection, it's always at the start or stands alone. As a predicate, it follows the verb 'sein' or 'finden'.

Wie schade! Ich hätte dich gerne gesehen.

It is also worth noting that schade can be used sarcastically, though this requires a specific tone of voice. If someone you dislike misses a party, you might say 'Schade...' with a smirk, implying you aren't actually sorry at all. However, as a learner, it is best to use it sincerely first. The word does not change its form based on gender or case in its interjectional/predicative use, which makes it very easy to integrate into your speech once you master the 'dass' clause word order.
In the daily life of a German speaker, schade is omnipresent. You will hear it at train stations when a delay is announced: 'Der Anschlusszug ist weg. – Oh, schade.' You will hear it in bakeries when the last croissant is sold: 'Die sind leider alle. – Schade, dann nehme ich ein Brötchen.' It is the soundtrack to minor logistical failures. In social circles, it is the standard response to a 'Absage' (cancellation). If you invite a German friend to dinner and they have to work late, they will almost certainly start their message with 'Schade, aber ich kann leider nicht...'
Customer Service
Clerks use it to soften the blow when a product is out of stock or a service is unavailable.
Media and Sports
Commentators use it when a player narrowly misses a goal: 'Knapp vorbei! Schade für die Mannschaft!'

Mensch, schade! Das war fast ein Tor.

In professional settings, schade is used to express regret about business outcomes without admitting fault. A recruiter might say, 'Es ist schade, dass wir Ihnen keine Stelle anbieten können,' which is a polite way of rejecting a candidate while maintaining a professional and sympathetic tone. It is also used in political discourse to lament missed opportunities for cooperation.

Es ist schade um die verpasste Chance.

You'll also encounter it in literature and film to emphasize the 'Tragik des Alltags' (the tragedy of everyday life). When a character realizes they've made a mistake that can't be undone but isn't world-ending, they might mutter 'Schade' to themselves. It reflects a very German pragmatic approach to disappointment: acknowledge it, label it, and move on.
Regional Variations
While 'schade' is universal, in the South you might hear 'Sünd und Schad' (a sin and a shame) for more emphasis, though this is slightly more old-fashioned.

Wirklich schade, dass der Urlaub schon vorbei ist.

Interestingly, schade is also a common word in the vocabulary of children. They use it when they have to stop playing or when they drop their ice cream. This makes it one of the first words German children learn to express the concept of 'unmet desires.' As you walk through a German city, keep your ears open for this word—it is the sound of the small frictions of life being acknowledged with a polite, empathetic sigh.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with schade is confusing it with the noun 'der Schaden' (the damage). While they share an etymological root, they are used very differently. You cannot say 'Das ist ein Schade' to mean 'That is a pity.' You must say 'Das ist schade.' Adding the article 'ein' turns it into a noun, and 'Schade' is not a noun in this context.
Confusing with 'Schaden'
Correct: 'Das ist schade.' (That's a pity). Incorrect: 'Das ist ein Schade.' Incorrect: 'Das ist ein Schaden.' (That is damage, e.g., to a car).
Word Order with 'Dass'
Correct: 'Schade, dass du nicht kommst.' Incorrect: 'Schade, dass du kommst nicht.'

Es ist schade, dass wir uns nicht gesehen haben. (Correct subordinate clause order)

Another mistake is using 'schade' for serious tragedies. If someone says their dog died, responding with just 'Schade!' can sound incredibly cold or dismissive. In English, 'What a pity' can sometimes feel a bit light, but 'Schade' is definitely too light for grief. Use 'Das tut mir leid' (I'm sorry) or 'Mein herzliches Beileid' instead. Learners also often struggle with the preposition 'um'. They might try to use 'für' (for) because they are thinking 'It's a pity for the money.' However, in German, it is 'Es ist schade um das Geld.' Using 'für' is a classic 'Denglisch' error.

Es ist schade um die ganze Arbeit. (Correct use of 'um')

Furthermore, avoid capitalizing 'schade' unless it starts the sentence. It is an adjective/interjection, not a noun. Writing 'Es ist Schade' is a common spelling error even for some native speakers, but it is grammatically incorrect.
Overuse of 'Sehr'
While 'sehr schade' is correct, Germans often prefer 'wie schade' or 'zu schade' for higher intensity. 'Sehr schade' can sometimes sound a bit clinical.
Finally, be careful with the pronunciation. The 'e' at the end is a schwa sound (like the 'a' in 'about'). It is not silent, but it shouldn't be a strong 'ay' sound either. Pronouncing it 'schad' (without the 'e') makes it sound like a dialect or an archaic form, which might not be what you intend in a standard conversation.
While schade is the go-to word, German offers several alternatives depending on the level of formality and the specific type of regret you want to express. The most common synonym is 'leider' (unfortunately). While schade is an exclamation of disappointment, leider is an adverb used to introduce a negative fact. You often use them together: 'Schade, ich kann leider nicht kommen.'
Bedauerlich
This is the formal cousin of 'schade'. It translates to 'regrettable.' You will see this in news reports or official letters: 'Ein bedauerlicher Vorfall' (A regrettable incident).
Ein Jammer
Literally 'a misery/wail.' This is much stronger than 'schade.' It's used for something that is truly a crying shame: 'Es ist ein Jammer, wie das alte Haus verfällt.'

Es ist bedauerlich, dass wir keine Einigung erzielen konnten.

For very informal situations, Germans might use 'Mist!' (Damn/Crap!) or 'Blöd' (Stupid/Annoying). 'Das ist echt blöd' is a common way for friends to express that something is 'schade' but in a more annoyed or frustrated tone. 'Schade' is more 'sadly disappointed,' while 'blöd' is 'annoyingly disappointed.' Another interesting alternative is 'Ewig schade,' which means 'an eternal pity' or 'a great shame.' This is used for opportunities that are lost forever, not just for the moment. For example, if a legendary restaurant closes down, you might say, 'Es ist ewig schade drum.'

Es ist ein Jammer, dass er sein Talent so verschwendet.

Traurig
Literally 'sad.' Sometimes used interchangeably with 'schade' in sentences like 'Es ist traurig, dass...', but 'traurig' implies a deeper emotional pain than 'schade'.
Finally, the phrase 'Was für ein Pech!' (What bad luck!) can be an alternative when the 'schade' situation was caused by pure chance rather than a choice or a mistake. If you miss a bus by one second, 'Was für ein Pech!' might be more accurate than 'Schade!', though both work. Understanding these nuances helps you sound more like a native speaker by matching your level of regret to the situation.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

While 'Schaden' remains a noun for physical damage, 'schade' evolved into a predicative adjective to express the *emotional* feeling of a loss or a 'damaged' opportunity.

発音ガイド

UK ˈʃaːdə
US ˈʃɑːdə
The stress is on the first syllable: SCHA-de.
韻が合う語
Gerade Gnade Made Wade Schokolade Fassade Parade Ballade
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing the final 'e' like 'ee' (schadee).
  • Making the final 'e' silent (schad).
  • Using a short 'a' like in 'hat' (shadde).
  • Over-aspirating the 'd'.
  • Pronouncing the 'sch' like 's' (sade).

難易度

読解 1/5

Very easy to recognize in text.

ライティング 2/5

Requires knowledge of 'dass' clause word order.

スピーキング 1/5

Easy to pronounce and very useful.

リスニング 1/5

Distinctive sound, easy to catch.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

sein dass leider gut schlecht

次に学ぶ

bedauerlich der Jammer trotzdem obwohl enttäuscht

上級

die Resignation die Wehmut die Vergeblichkeit misslich bejammernswert

知っておくべき文法

Subordinating Conjunctions (dass)

Es ist schade, dass er heute krank **ist**.

Predicative Adjectives

Das Wetter ist **schade**.

Preposition 'um' with Accusative

Schade um **den** Aufwand.

Konjunktiv II for hypothetical regret

Es **wäre** schade, wenn wir uns verlieren würden.

Adverbial intensifiers

Das ist **wirklich** schade.

レベル別の例文

1

Schade!

Too bad!

Stand-alone interjection.

2

Ach, schade.

Oh, what a pity.

Common emotional filler 'Ach' added.

3

Wie schade!

How a pity! / What a shame!

'Wie' acts as an intensifier here.

4

Schade, ich habe keine Zeit.

Too bad, I have no time.

Used before a main clause.

5

Das ist schade.

That is a pity.

Simple predicative use.

6

Schade, das Brot ist alt.

Pity, the bread is old.

Informal usage without 'Es ist'.

7

Echt schade!

Really too bad!

'Echt' as a casual intensifier.

8

Schade, du bist nicht da.

Pity, you are not here.

Informal structure.

1

Es ist schade, dass du nicht kommst.

It is a pity that you are not coming.

Standard 'dass' clause with verb at the end.

2

Schade um das schöne Wetter!

A pity about the beautiful weather!

'Schade um' + Accusative.

3

Ich finde es schade, dass es regnet.

I find it a pity that it's raining.

'Finden' + 'es' + 'schade'.

4

Zu schade, dass der Film schon fertig ist.

Too bad that the movie is already finished.

'Zu schade' for emphasis.

5

Es ist schade um das Geld.

It's a pity about the money (a waste).

'Um' indicates a waste of resources.

6

Schade, dass wir uns verpasst haben.

Pity that we missed each other.

Common social expression.

7

Wirklich schade, dass der Urlaub vorbei ist.

Really a pity that the vacation is over.

Adverbial intensifier 'wirklich'.

8

Es ist schade, dass er keine Zeit hat.

It's a pity that he has no time.

Third-person reference.

1

Eigentlich ist es schade, dass wir so selten telefonieren.

Actually, it's a pity that we call each other so rarely.

'Eigentlich' adds a reflective tone.

2

Es wäre schade, wenn du nicht dabei wärst.

It would be a pity if you weren't there.

Konjunktiv II (Subjunctive) for hypothetical regret.

3

Ich finde es extrem schade, dass das Projekt gestoppt wurde.

I find it extremely a pity that the project was stopped.

Stronger intensifier 'extrem'.

4

Schade drum, es war ein tolles Auto.

Pity about it, it was a great car.

'Schade drum' is short for 'Schade darum'.

5

Es ist ewig schade um die alten Bäume.

It's an eternal pity about the old trees.

'Ewig schade' for lasting loss.

6

Wie schade, dass Sie heute nicht teilnehmen können.

How a pity that you (formal) cannot participate today.

Formal address 'Sie'.

7

Es ist doch schade, wenn man sich streitet.

It is a pity, after all, when people argue.

'Doch' adds a sense of 'don't you agree?'.

8

Schade, dass aus der Idee nichts geworden ist.

Pity that nothing came of the idea.

Abstract usage.

1

Es ist unendlich schade, dass diese Tradition ausstirbt.

It is infinitely a pity that this tradition is dying out.

High-level intensifier 'unendlich'.

2

Ich empfinde es als schade, dass die Kommunikation so gelitten hat.

I feel it is a pity that communication has suffered so much.

More formal 'empfinden als'.

3

Es ist jammerschade, dass er sein Potenzial nicht nutzt.

It's a crying shame that he doesn't use his potential.

Compound adjective 'jammerschade'.

4

Schade nur, dass die Umsetzung so mangelhaft war.

Only a pity that the implementation was so deficient.

'Nur' used to highlight a specific flaw.

5

Es wäre doch zu schade, wenn wir diese Chance verstreichen ließen.

It would be too much of a pity if we let this chance slip away.

Complex Konjunktiv II structure.

6

Schade eigentlich, dass wir uns erst jetzt kennenlernen.

Pity actually that we are only getting to know each other now.

Word order variation for emphasis.

7

Es ist schade um jede Minute, die wir hier verlieren.

It's a pity for every minute we lose here.

Specific 'um' construction with time.

8

Viel zu schade zum Wegwerfen!

Much too good to throw away!

'Zu schade zum...' + Infinitive.

1

Es ist zutiefst schade, dass die kulturelle Vielfalt schwindet.

It is deeply a pity that cultural diversity is dwindling.

Abstract, formal context.

2

Man könnte fast sagen, es sei schade um die investierte Mühe.

One could almost say it was a pity about the invested effort.

Konjunktiv I (indirect speech) + 'um'.

3

Es ist ein Stück weit schade, dass wir den Kontakt verloren haben.

It is to some extent a pity that we lost touch.

Idiomatic 'ein Stück weit' (to some extent).

4

Wie schade doch, dass die Vernunft so oft auf der Strecke bleibt.

How a pity indeed that reason so often falls by the wayside.

Rhetorical/Philosophical use.

5

Es ist schade, dass die ästhetische Komponente vernachlässigt wurde.

It's a pity that the aesthetic component was neglected.

Academic/Critical register.

6

Nur zu schade, dass die Beweise nicht ausreichen.

Only too bad that the evidence is not sufficient.

Elliptical formal usage.

7

Es ist schade um die verpassten Gelegenheiten der Jugend.

It's a pity about the missed opportunities of youth.

Literary/Reflective tone.

8

Dass er nicht teilnehmen konnte, war mehr als nur schade.

That he couldn't participate was more than just a pity.

Using the clause as a subject.

1

In jener Retrospektive erscheint es geradezu schade, wie wenig wir wussten.

In that retrospective, it seems almost a pity how little we knew.

Highly formal, sophisticated structure.

2

Es ist ewig schade, dass solch ein monumentales Werk in Vergessenheit geriet.

It is an eternal pity that such a monumental work fell into oblivion.

Elevated vocabulary ('in Vergessenheit geraten').

3

Schade drum, dass der Zeitgeist sich gegen diese Ideale gewandt hat.

A pity that the zeitgeist has turned against these ideals.

Combining colloquial 'drum' with elevated 'Zeitgeist'.

4

Es ist bedauerlich, ja fast schon schade, diese Entwicklung zu beobachten.

It is regrettable, yes almost a pity, to observe this development.

Nuanced distinction between 'bedauerlich' and 'schade'.

5

Wie schade, dass die Sprache ihre Präzision in diesem Punkt verliert.

How a pity that the language loses its precision on this point.

Meta-linguistic commentary.

6

Es wäre schade um die Nuancen, wenn wir alles vereinfachen würden.

It would be a pity for the nuances if we were to simplify everything.

Hypothetical academic argument.

7

Dass die Vernunft dem Affekt wich, ist mehr als nur schade.

That reason gave way to affect is more than just a pity.

Sophisticated subject clause.

8

Es ist schade, dass die historische Chance ungenutzt verstrichen ist.

It's a pity that the historical chance passed by unused.

Formal historical analysis.

よく使う組み合わせ

Wie schade!
Zu schade!
Echt schade
Wirklich schade
Schade um...
Ewig schade
Jammerschade
Schade eigentlich
Nur zu schade
Fast schon schade

よく使うフレーズ

Schade, dass...

— The standard way to start a sentence expressing regret about a specific fact.

Schade, dass du nicht da warst.

Es ist schade drum.

— A way to say 'it's a pity about that' referring to something previously mentioned.

Die alte Uhr ist kaputt. Es ist schade drum.

Schade um die Zeit.

— Expressing that time was wasted on something that wasn't worth it.

Das Meeting war sinnlos. Schade um die Zeit.

Wie schade für dich/euch.

— Expressing sympathy to someone else's disappointment.

Ihr konntet nicht in den Urlaub? Wie schade für euch!

Zu schade, um wahr zu sein.

— A play on 'too good to be true', used when something is disappointingly realistic.

Die Preise sind hoch. Zu schade, um wahr zu sein.

Eigentlich schade.

— Used to express a mild, reflective regret.

Eigentlich schade, dass der Sommer vorbei ist.

Schade, aber wahr.

— Similar to 'sad but true'.

Wir haben verloren. Schade, aber wahr.

Viel zu schade für...

— Something is too good/valuable to be used for a certain purpose.

Das Kleid ist viel zu schade für die Gartenarbeit.

Kein Schade sein.

— An older/regional way to say something isn't a loss (rare).

Es ist kein Schade drum.

Schade, schade!

— Double use for extra emphasis or rhythmic effect.

Schade, schade, dass das nicht geklappt hat.

よく混同される語

schade vs der Schaden

A noun meaning 'damage' or 'harm'. You can't say 'Das ist ein Schade'.

schade vs schaden (verb)

To harm someone/something. 'Das schadet mir' (That harms me).

schade vs schade (verb form)

The first-person singular present of 'schaden' (Ich schade).

慣用句と表現

"Schade, dass man Wein nicht beißen kann."

— A humorous saying about enjoying wine so much you wish you could eat it.

Dieser Riesling ist toll. Schade, dass man Wein nicht beißen kann!

informal/humorous
"Es ist jammerschade."

— It's a crying shame; a very strong expression of pity.

Es ist jammerschade um das schöne Haus.

emphatic
"Schade um den Atem."

— Not worth talking about; a waste of breath.

Mit ihm zu diskutieren ist schade um den Atem.

informal
"Schade um die Liebesmüh."

— A waste of effort/love's labour's lost.

Ich habe alles versucht, aber es war schade um die Liebesmüh.

literary
"Zu schade zum Wegwerfen."

— Something is still useful despite being old or slightly broken.

Die Schuhe sind alt, aber zu schade zum Wegwerfen.

neutral
"Schade, dass die Katze kein Omelett isst."

— A nonsensical or regional way to say 'it is what it is' regarding missed chances.

Tja, schade, dass die Katze kein Omelett isst.

regional/rare
"Ein Schade(n) kommt selten allein."

— Misfortunes seldom come alone (usually uses 'Schaden').

Erst das Auto, dann die Heizung. Ein Schade kommt selten allein.

proverbial
"Schade um das vergossene Blut."

— A very serious expression about wasted lives in conflict.

In diesem Krieg war es schade um jedes vergossene Blut.

formal/solemn
"Ewig schade drum."

— A lasting, permanent sense of loss.

Dass die Bibliothek abgebrannt ist, ist ewig schade drum.

neutral
"Schade, Marmelade!"

— A playful, rhyming way children (and sometimes adults) say 'too bad'.

Kein Eis mehr? Schade, Marmelade!

child-friendly/slang

間違えやすい

schade vs Schatten

Similar beginning sound.

Schatten means 'shadow'. Schade means 'pity'.

Der Baum wirft einen Schatten. Es ist schade, dass es regnet.

schade vs Schande

Very similar spelling and sound.

Schande means 'disgrace' or 'shame' (moral). Schade is for minor pity.

Das ist eine Schande für das Land! vs. Schade, dass du nicht da bist.

schade vs leider

Both express regret.

Leider is an adverb (unfortunately). Schade is an interjection/adjective.

Leider habe ich kein Geld. Es ist schade, dass ich kein Geld habe.

schade vs Schaden

Root word.

Schaden is the physical damage. Schade is the feeling about it.

Der Schaden am Auto ist groß. Es ist schade um das Auto.

schade vs schade (verb)

Homograph.

One is an adjective, one is a verb form.

Es ist schade. (Adjective) Ich schade niemandem. (Verb)

文型パターン

A1

Schade!

Kein Kuchen mehr? Schade!

A1

Das ist schade.

Du hast keine Zeit? Das ist schade.

A2

Schade, dass [S] [O] [V].

Schade, dass du nicht kommst.

A2

Es ist schade um [Acc].

Es ist schade um den Wein.

B1

Ich finde es schade, dass...

Ich finde es schade, dass du gehst.

B1

Es wäre schade, wenn...

Es wäre schade, wenn es regnet.

B2

Zu schade, um [Inf].

Zu schade zum Wegwerfen.

C1

Schade eigentlich, dass...

Schade eigentlich, dass wir uns erst jetzt treffen.

語族

名詞

der Schaden (damage)
die Schadensersatz (compensation)
die Schädlichkeit (harmfulness)

動詞

schaden (to harm/damage)
beschädigen (to damage something)

形容詞

schädlich (harmful)
unschädlich (harmless)
schadhaft (defective)

関連

leider
bedauerlich
der Jammer
der Verlust
die Enttäuschung

使い方

frequency

Extremely high in daily spoken German.

よくある間違い
  • Das ist ein Schade. Das ist schade.

    You cannot use an article with 'schade' in this context; it is an adjective, not a noun.

  • Schade, dass du kommst nicht. Schade, dass du nicht kommst.

    The 'dass' clause requires the conjugated verb to be at the very end of the sentence.

  • Es ist schade für das Geld. Es ist schade um das Geld.

    The correct preposition to express a waste of something is 'um', not 'für'.

  • Schade! (to a grieving person) Das tut mir leid. / Mein Beileid.

    'Schade' is too light for serious tragedy or death; it sounds dismissive.

  • Ich bin schade. Es ist schade. / Ich finde es schade.

    You cannot be 'schade' yourself. The situation is 'schade'.

ヒント

Verb Position

Always check your verb position when using 'dass'. It's the most common error with this word. 'Schade, dass du da BIST' not 'Schade, dass du BIST da'.

Empathy

Use 'Ach, schade' to show you are listening when someone tells you about a minor problem. It makes you sound much more fluent and empathetic.

Intensifiers

Don't just say 'schade'. Use 'echt schade', 'wirklich schade', or 'zu schade' to vary your language and express different levels of regret.

Formal Writing

In a formal business letter, consider using 'Es ist bedauerlich' instead of 'Es ist schade'. It sounds more professional and slightly more distant.

The Schwa

Make sure you pronounce the final 'e' in 'schade'. It's a short, relaxed sound. If you leave it off, it sounds like a dialect or very old German.

Waste

Use 'schade um' specifically for wasted resources like time, money, or effort. It's a very precise and useful construction.

Playfulness

Use 'Schade, Marmelade' with friends or children to lighten the mood when something small goes wrong.

Fillers

Listen for 'eigentlich' used with 'schade'. It often introduces a deeper, more sincere reflection on why something is a pity.

No 'ein'

Never say 'ein Schade'. It's a giveaway that you are translating directly from English 'a pity'.

Pragmatism

Notice that Germans use 'schade' and then immediately move on to a solution or a new topic. It's a way of acknowledging a problem before resolving it.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'SHAdow'. When something is 'schade', a 'shadow' of disappointment falls over your plans.

視覚的連想

Imagine a child dropping a scoop of ice cream on the sidewalk. That moment of 'Oh no!' is exactly when you say 'Schade!'.

Word Web

Disappointment Pity Regret Empathy Missed chance Social reflex Dass-clause Waste

チャレンジ

Try to use 'schade' three times today: once for a personal minor mistake, once to empathize with a friend, and once using the 'Schade, dass...' structure.

語源

Derived from Middle High German 'schade' and Old High German 'scado', which originally meant 'damage', 'harm', or 'injury'. It is related to the English word 'scathe'.

元の意味: Physical or material harm/damage.

Germanic

文化的な背景

Do not use 'schade' for serious illnesses or deaths; it sounds too trivial. Use 'Das tut mir leid' instead.

English speakers often say 'I'm sorry' for minor things where Germans would say 'Schade'. 'Schade' is less about personal guilt and more about the situation.

The song 'Schade, dass man Wein nicht beißen kann' by various artists. Commonly used in German dubs of movies for 'What a pity' or 'Too bad'. Featured in many German 'Tatort' episodes when a lead is lost.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Social Invitations

  • Schade, dass du nicht kannst.
  • Wie schade, vielleicht nächstes Mal?
  • Echt schade, wir hatten uns gefreut.
  • Zu schade, dass es nicht klappt.

Shopping/Services

  • Schade, dass das ausverkauft ist.
  • Das ist aber schade.
  • Wie schade, ich habe es dringend gebraucht.
  • Schade, dann schaue ich woanders.

Weather/Nature

  • Schade um das schöne Wetter.
  • Schade, dass es regnet.
  • Wie schade, die Sonne war so schön.
  • Echt schade für den Ausflug.

Work/Business

  • Es ist schade, dass wir keine Lösung fanden.
  • Schade um die investierte Zeit.
  • Ich finde es schade, dass er kündigt.
  • Wirklich schade für das Team.

Sports/Games

  • Schade! Fast ein Tor!
  • Mensch, schade!
  • Echt schade, wir waren so nah dran.
  • Schade für die Verlierer.

会話のきっかけ

"Findest du es auch schade, dass der Sommer schon fast vorbei ist?"

"Es ist wirklich schade, dass dieses Café schließen muss, oder?"

"Schade, dass wir uns so lange nicht gesehen haben. Wie geht es dir?"

"Ich finde es schade, dass es heute regnet. Was machen wir jetzt?"

"Ist es nicht schade um das alte Kino in der Stadtmitte?"

日記のテーマ

Schreibe über eine Situation, in der du 'Schade' gedacht hast. Was ist passiert?

Was findest du an deiner Stadt oder deinem Wohnort besonders schade? Warum?

Gibt es ein Hobby, das du aufgegeben hast? Findest du es heute schade?

Schreibe über eine verpasste Gelegenheit. Warum war es 'schade um die Chance'?

Ist 'Schade' ein wichtiges Wort in deiner Muttersprache? Vergleiche es mit dem Deutschen.

よくある質問

10 問

No, that is incorrect. You must say 'Das ist schade' without the article 'ein'. 'Schade' functions as an adjective here, not a noun. If you use 'ein', you would have to use 'Schaden', which means physical damage.

It is neutral and can be used in almost any context, from talking to a child to writing a professional email. However, in very formal legal or high-office contexts, 'bedauerlich' is often preferred.

'Leider' is an adverb used to state an unfortunate fact ('Ich kann leider nicht'). 'Schade' is an emotional reaction to that fact ('Es ist schade, dass du nicht kannst'). You can use both together: 'Schade, ich kann leider nicht kommen.'

Use 'schade um' followed by a noun in the accusative case to say something is a waste. For example: 'Schade um die Zeit' (A pity about the time). It implies that the thing mentioned was valuable but wasted.

It is a rhyming phrase used mostly by children or in a playful way to say 'too bad'. It doesn't have a literal meaning involving jam; it's just for the rhyme.

Generally, no. It sounds too trivial for a death. It's better to use 'Mein Beileid' or 'Das tut mir sehr leid'. 'Schade' is for missed opportunities or minor disappointments.

Because 'dass' is a subordinating conjunction. In German, all subordinating conjunctions move the conjugated verb to the very end of the clause.

Yes, 'Wie schade' (How a pity) adds a bit more emotional weight and emphasis than the simple one-word exclamation.

It is an intensified form of 'schade'. 'Jammer' means misery or wailing, so 'jammerschade' is like saying 'a crying shame' or 'a terrible pity'.

Yes, just like in English 'What a pity'. If you say it with a certain tone when something bad happens to someone you don't like, it's clear you don't really mean it.

自分をテスト 180 問

writing

Translate: 'Too bad that you are not coming.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'What a pity about the weather!'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a short sentence using 'wirklich schade'.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'I find it a pity that it is raining.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'It would be a pity if she wasn't there.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Too bad, I have no time.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'It's a crying shame about the house.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Actually, it's a pity.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Pity about the many hours of work.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Pity that you (formal) are leaving.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a reaction to: 'Ich kann nicht zur Party kommen.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'It is a pity about the money.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Too bad for the team.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'It is a regrettable incident.' (Formal)

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Pity about that!' (Short form)

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'It's a pity that the concert is sold out.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Infinitely a pity.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Pity, but true.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Too good to throw away.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Translate: 'Pity that nothing came of it.'

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Too bad!' in German.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'How a pity!' in German.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Pity that you are not here.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Really too bad.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Too bad about the time.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I find it a pity.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Too bad, I have to work.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'It is a crying shame.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Actually, it's a pity.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Pity for the money.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Too bad that he is sick.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'What a pity for you!'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Too bad, the cake is gone.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'It would be a pity.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Pity about that.' (Short)

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Too bad for the flowers.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Infinitely a pity.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Too bad that we missed each other.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Pity, but true.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Too good to throw away.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Ach, schade, dass das nicht klappt.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Es ist wirklich schade um ihn.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Wie schade, dass du schon gehst.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Schade um die viele Arbeit.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Ich finde es extrem schade.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Schade drum!'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Zu schade, dass er keine Zeit hat.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Eigentlich ist es schade.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Es ist jammerschade um das Talent.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Schade, Marmelade!'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Es wäre schade, wenn es regnet.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Unendlich schade!'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Schade, dass wir uns verpasst haben.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Ewig schade um die Bäume.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'Das ist echt schade für euch.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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