At the A1 level, you only need to know 'die Nadel' as a basic object used for sewing. You should recognize it as a feminine noun (die Nadel) and know its plural (die Nadeln). At this stage, you might use it in simple sentences like 'Ich habe eine Nadel' (I have a needle) or 'Die Nadel ist klein' (The needle is small). You might also encounter it in the context of Christmas trees during the winter holidays. Focus on the physical object and its sharp nature. It is helpful to learn it alongside 'der Faden' (the thread), as they are almost always used together. Don't worry about complex idioms or medical terms yet; just focus on the tool in your sewing kit or the sharp leaves on a tree.
At the A2 level, you expand your use of 'die Nadel' to include more specific types of needles and common daily situations. You should be able to use compound nouns like 'Stricknadel' (knitting needle) or 'Nähnadel' (sewing needle). You will also start to see it in medical contexts, such as 'eine Spritze mit einer Nadel' (a syringe with a needle). You should be comfortable using it in different cases, such as the accusative ('Ich suche die Nadel') and the dative ('Ich arbeite mit der Nadel'). You might also learn the most common idiom: 'die Nadel im Heuhaufen suchen' (to look for a needle in a haystack), which is a great way to show you are moving beyond basic vocabulary. Understanding the difference between 'Nadel' and 'Nagel' (nail) is a key goal for A2 students.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'die Nadel' in a variety of contexts with confidence. This includes technical and natural descriptions. You might discuss the 'Kompassnadel' (compass needle) when talking about travel or the 'Tachonadel' (speedometer needle) when discussing driving. In terms of nature, you should be able to describe a 'Nadelwald' (coniferous forest). You will also encounter the word in more abstract phrases, such as 'auf Nadeln sitzen' (to be on pins and needles). Your grammar should be precise, correctly handling the plural dative 'den Nadeln'. You are also expected to know related verbs like 'einfädeln' (to thread) and 'stechen' (to prick/sting).
At the B2 level, 'die Nadel' becomes part of your more nuanced vocabulary. You can use it in professional contexts, such as explaining a medical procedure or discussing the technical aspects of a record player (Plattenspielernadel). You should understand the metaphorical use of 'Nadelstiche' to describe small, calculated attacks in a debate or political context. You can also use the phrase 'mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt' to describe something done quickly and perhaps poorly. Your understanding of the word should include its role in forming many compound nouns and its appearance in literature and news reports. You are expected to distinguish 'Nadel' from more technical terms like 'Kanüle' when appropriate.
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of 'die Nadel' and its various connotations. You can use it fluently in idiomatic expressions and understand subtle wordplay involving the term. You might encounter it in sophisticated literature where it could be used as a symbol of precision, pain, or nature's resilience. You should be able to discuss the biological differences between 'Nadeln' and 'Blätter' (leaves) in a scientific or environmental context. Your use of compound words involving 'Nadel' should be extensive and natural. You also understand the historical etymology and how the word relates to similar terms in other Germanic languages, providing a richer context for its use in modern German.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'die Nadel' is complete. You can use the word in all its literal, technical, and metaphorical senses with the precision of a native speaker. You are comfortable using it in highly specialized fields, from acupuncture (Akupunkturnadel) to high-end textile manufacturing. You can appreciate and use complex metaphors and rare idioms involving the word. You understand the nuances between 'Nadel' and its synonyms in every possible register, from colloquial slang to academic discourse. Whether you are writing a technical manual, a poetic piece, or a political analysis, you use 'die Nadel' and its derivatives with absolute accuracy and stylistic flair.

die Nadel 30초 만에

  • Die Nadel is a feminine noun meaning needle, used in sewing, medicine, and nature (pine needles).
  • The plural is Nadeln, and common compounds include Nähnadel, Stricknadel, and Kompassnadel.
  • Idiomatically, it is famously used in 'die Nadel im Heuhaufen' (needle in a haystack).
  • Be careful not to confuse it with 'der Nagel' (nail) or 'die Nudel' (noodle).
The German noun die Nadel is a versatile word that primarily refers to a needle. At its most basic level, it describes the small, thin, sharp tool made of metal with a hole (the eye) at one end, used for sewing or embroidery. However, the scope of this word extends far beyond the sewing kit. In a medical context, die Nadel refers to a hypodermic needle used for injections or drawing blood, though medical professionals might specifically use terms like 'Kanüle.' Furthermore, the word is essential in the world of nature; the thin, sharp leaves of coniferous trees like pines, firs, and spruces are called Nadeln. If you are navigating with a compass, the part that points north is the Kompassnadel. Even in the realm of vintage music, the stylus that reads the grooves of a vinyl record is referred to as the Plattenspielernadel.
Grammar Gender
The word is feminine, taking the article 'die' in the nominative case. Its plural form is 'die Nadeln'.

Pass auf, die Nadel ist sehr spitz und du könntest dich stechen.

Beyond these literal uses, 'die Nadel' appears in several famous German idioms. To search for a needle in a haystack—'die Nadel im Heuhaufen suchen'—is a common expression for a near-impossible task. In technical fields, any needle-like indicator on a gauge or instrument can be called a Nadel. Understanding this word requires recognizing its shape: anything thin, long, and pointed can potentially be described using this root. Whether you are at a doctor's office, a tailor's shop, or hiking through a Black Forest pine grove, this word is indispensable.
Common Compounds
Nähnadel (sewing needle), Stecknadel (safety pin/push pin), Stricknadel (knitting needle).

Die Krankenschwester führte die Nadel vorsichtig in die Vene ein.

Die Kiefer verliert im Herbst viele ihrer Nadeln.

Phonetics
The 'a' is long, and the 'd' is soft, followed by a quick 'el' sound. It rhymes with 'Adel' (nobility).

Ohne eine Nadel kann man den Faden nicht durch den Stoff ziehen.

Die magnetische Nadel zeigt immer nach Norden.

In summary, 'die Nadel' is a fundamental noun that bridges the gap between domestic crafts, medical technology, and the natural world. Its various forms and compounds allow for precise communication across many different domains of life in Germany.
Using die Nadel correctly in sentences requires attention to its feminine gender and its pluralization. In the nominative case, we say 'Die Nadel ist scharf.' If you are using it as a direct object in the accusative case, it remains 'die Nadel', as in 'Ich sehe die Nadel.' However, in the dative case, it changes to 'der Nadel', for example, 'Ich gebe der Nadel einen neuen Faden' (though this specific phrasing is rare; more common would be 'Ich fädele den Faden in die Nadel ein').
Prepositional Use
When working with needles, you often use 'mit' (with), which triggers the dative: 'Ich nähe mit einer Nadel'.

Kannst du mir helfen, den Faden durch das Öhr der Nadel zu führen?

The plural 'Nadeln' is used frequently when discussing knitting or nature. 'Ich habe meine Stricknadeln vergessen' (I forgot my knitting needles). In the dative plural, an extra 'n' is not needed because 'Nadeln' already ends in 'n', so it stays 'den Nadeln'. When describing an action involving a needle, specific verbs are often paired with it. 'Einstechen' means to prick or insert the needle. 'Fädeln' means to thread. 'Nähen' is to sew. In a medical context, 'eine Nadel setzen' means to place or insert a needle for an IV.
Verbal Collocations
Die Nadel einfädeln (to thread the needle), sich an einer Nadel stechen (to prick oneself on a needle).

In der Akupunktur werden feine Nadeln in die Haut gesetzt.

Der Schneider hat die Nadel im Stoff stecken lassen.

Idiomatic Sentence
'Das ist wie die Suche nach der Nadel im Heuhaufen' is used to describe a futile search.

Haben Sie eine Nadel und einen Faden für meinen losen Knopf?

Die Tanne hat weiche Nadeln, die nicht so stark stechen.

Overall, using 'die Nadel' requires you to be aware of the context—whether it is a tool, a biological part, or a metaphorical object—and to apply the standard feminine declension patterns accordingly.
In daily German life, you will encounter die Nadel in several distinct environments. The most common is likely the household or a clothing store. If a button falls off your shirt, you would ask, 'Hast du eine Nadel?' In a 'Schneiderei' (tailor shop), the word is heard constantly as tailors discuss different types of needles for different fabrics.
Medical Settings
At the doctor's office (beim Arzt), you might hear: 'Nur ein kleiner Piks mit der Nadel.' (Just a small prick with the needle.)

Die Krankenschwester bereitet die Nadel für die Blutabnahme vor.

Another major area is nature and the outdoors. Germany is famous for its 'Nadelwälder' (coniferous forests). During a walk in the forest, you might hear someone comment on the 'Nadeln auf dem Boden' (needles on the ground). Around Christmas, the word becomes seasonal as people discuss whether their Nordmann-Tanne is losing its needles. You will also hear this word in creative hobbies. Knitting (Stricken) and crocheting (Häkeln) are very popular in Germany. In a 'Wollgeschäft' (yarn shop), customers regularly ask for specific 'Stricknadeln' of a certain size.
Technical Use
In a car, the speedometer needle is the 'Tachonadel'. On a record player, it is the 'Plattenspielernadel'.

Die Nadel des Kompasses zitterte leicht, bevor sie nach Norden zeigte.

Vorsicht, da liegen überall Nadeln von der Kiefer auf der Picknickdecke.

Metaphorical Use
'Nadelstiche' (needle pricks) is often used in politics or debates to describe small, targeted provocations or insults.

Ich muss die Nadel am Plattenspieler austauschen, der Klang ist schlecht.

Mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt (done in a hurry/sloppily).

From the forest floor to the doctor's syringe, 'die Nadel' is a word that permeates various aspects of German life, making it a vital addition to any learner's vocabulary.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when learning die Nadel is confusing it with the masculine noun 'der Nagel' (the nail). While they sound somewhat similar and both represent sharp metal objects, their uses are entirely different. A 'Nagel' is hit with a hammer into wood, while a 'Nadel' is used for sewing or injections. Mixing these up can lead to very confusing sentences, such as 'Ich nähe mein Hemd mit einem Nagel' (I am sewing my shirt with a nail).
Gender Confusion
Beginners often forget that 'Nadel' is feminine. Saying 'der Nadel' is a common error. Always associate it with 'die'.

Falsch: Ich brauche den Nadel. Richtig: Ich brauche die Nadel.

Another mistake involves the plural. English speakers might try to say 'Nadels' or 'Nadelen', but the correct plural is 'Nadeln'. This is particularly important when talking about pine needles or knitting needles. In medical contexts, learners sometimes use 'Spritze' and 'Nadel' interchangeably. While related, a 'Spritze' is the whole syringe, whereas the 'Nadel' is just the metal part that pierces the skin. If you want to talk specifically about the sharp part, use 'Nadel'.
Plural Dative
In the dative plural, some learners try to add another 'n' to 'Nadeln', resulting in 'Nadelnn', which is incorrect. The word remains 'Nadeln'.

Falsch: Ich habe Angst vor Nageln. Richtig: Ich habe Angst vor Nadeln (if you mean needles).

Falsch: Die Nudel des Kompasses. Richtig: Die Nadel des Kompasses.

Compound Nouns
Learners often forget to combine words. It's 'Stricknadel', not 'Strick Nadel' or 'Nadel zum Stricken' in common parlance.

Falsch: Ich suche die Nadel im Heu. Richtig: Ich suche die Nadel im Heuhaufen.

Falsch: Meine Oma strickt mit langen Nageln. Richtig: Meine Oma strickt mit langen Nadeln.

By being mindful of the gender, the specific plural form, and the distinct phonetic differences between similar-sounding words, you can avoid these common pitfalls and use 'die Nadel' like a native speaker.
While die Nadel is the general term for a needle, German offers several more specific alternatives depending on the context. If you are specifically referring to a pin used to hold fabric together before sewing, the correct term is die Stecknadel. If it is a safety pin, it is die Sicherheitsnadel.
Sewing Variations
Nähnadel (standard sewing), Stricknadel (knitting), Häkelnadel (crochet hook - note that 'hook' is still called 'Nadel' here).

Ich benutze eine Häkelnadel, um diese Mütze zu machen.

In a medical or scientific context, you might encounter die Kanüle. This is a more technical term for a hollow needle used to inject or withdraw fluids. Another medical term is die Injektionsnadel. When discussing tools, die Ahle (awl) is a similar tool used for poking holes in leather, but it is not a 'Nadel' because it lacks an eye for thread.
Nature Comparisons
Tannennadel (fir needle) vs. Kiefernnadel (pine needle). Both are types of Nadeln.

Die Stecknadeln halten das Muster auf dem Stoff fest.

Der Arzt wechselte die Kanüle vor der Infusion.

Abstract Alternatives
Spitze (point/tip) can sometimes replace Nadel in descriptive contexts, but it is less specific.

Er benutzt eine Sicherheitsnadel, um den Riss in seiner Hose vorübergehend zu schließen.

Die Stricknadeln klapperten leise im Wohnzimmer.

Understanding these nuances helps you choose the most accurate word for your specific situation, moving your German from basic to proficient.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The word 'Nadel' and the verb 'nähen' come from the same ancient root meaning to spin or to sew. In many Germanic languages, the word for needle has remained remarkably stable over thousands of years.

발음 가이드

UK /ˈnaːdl̩/
US /ˈnɑːdəl/
The stress is on the first syllable: NA-del.
라임이 맞는 단어
Adel Tadel Radel Fadel Gabel (near rhyme) Nabel Schnabel Kabel
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing the 'a' short like in 'apple'.
  • Confusing it with 'Nudel' (noodle) by using a 'u' sound.
  • Adding an extra vowel sound between 'd' and 'l'.
  • Pronouncing it like the English 'needle'.
  • Confusing it with 'Nagel' (nail).

난이도

독해 2/5

The word is short and appears in many common contexts.

쓰기 3/5

Remembering the 'el' ending and plural 'n' is important.

말하기 2/5

The long 'a' sound is easy to master for English speakers.

듣기 3/5

Can be confused with 'Nagel' or 'Nudel' if not careful.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

der Faden nähen scharf klein der Baum

다음에 배울 것

das Nadelöhr der Nadelwald die Spritze stricken häkeln

고급

die Akupunktur die Kanüle die Textilverarbeitung die Koniferen die Feinmotorik

알아야 할 문법

Feminine Nouns ending in -el

die Nadel, die Gabel, die Ampel.

Plural formation with -n

die Nadel -> die Nadeln.

Dative case with 'mit'

Ich nähe mit der Nadel.

Compound noun gender

Die Kompassnadel (takes the gender of the last word: die Nadel).

Accusative of direction

Ich steche die Nadel in den Stoff.

수준별 예문

1

Die Nadel ist sehr klein.

The needle is very small.

Subject in nominative case.

2

Hast du eine Nadel für mich?

Do you have a needle for me?

Direct object in accusative case (eine Nadel).

3

Ich sehe die Nadel auf dem Boden.

I see the needle on the floor.

Accusative feminine 'die Nadel'.

4

Die Tanne hat viele Nadeln.

The fir tree has many needles.

Plural form 'Nadeln'.

5

Die Nadel ist spitz.

The needle is sharp.

Adjective 'spitz' describing the noun.

6

Wo ist meine Nadel?

Where is my needle?

Possessive pronoun 'meine' (feminine).

7

Ich brauche eine Nadel und einen Faden.

I need a needle and a thread.

Using 'und' to connect two nouns.

8

Das ist eine Nähnadel.

That is a sewing needle.

Compound noun 'Nähnadel'.

1

Ich nähe den Knopf mit einer Nadel an.

I am sewing the button on with a needle.

Dative case after 'mit' (einer Nadel).

2

Die Krankenschwester bringt die Nadel.

The nurse brings the needle.

Feminine noun as direct object.

3

Pass auf, dass du dich nicht an der Nadel stichst!

Be careful not to prick yourself on the needle!

Dative case after 'an' (der Nadel).

4

Die Kompassnadel zeigt nach Norden.

The compass needle points north.

Compound noun 'Kompassnadel'.

5

Meine Oma hat neue Stricknadeln gekauft.

My grandma bought new knitting needles.

Plural accusative 'Stricknadeln'.

6

Im Wald liegen viele Nadeln auf dem Weg.

In the forest, many needles are lying on the path.

Plural nominative 'Nadeln'.

7

Ich kann den Faden nicht in die Nadel einfädeln.

I cannot thread the thread into the needle.

Accusative case after 'in' (direction).

8

Das Suchen nach dem Schlüssel war wie die Suche nach der Nadel im Heuhaufen.

Searching for the key was like searching for the needle in the haystack.

Common idiom.

1

Der Arzt setzte die Nadel sehr vorsichtig an.

The doctor applied the needle very carefully.

Simple past 'setzte... an'.

2

Die Nadeln der Kiefer sind länger als die der Tanne.

The needles of the pine are longer than those of the fir.

Genitive relationship 'der Kiefer'.

3

Ich sitze wie auf Nadeln, während ich auf das Ergebnis warte.

I am sitting on pins and needles while I wait for the result.

Idiomatic expression.

4

Die Tachonadel kletterte langsam auf einhundert Stundenkilometer.

The speedometer needle slowly climbed to one hundred kilometers per hour.

Compound noun 'Tachonadel'.

5

Man muss die Nadel des Plattenspielers regelmäßig reinigen.

You must clean the record player's needle regularly.

Genitive 'des Plattenspielers'.

6

Die Akupunktur verwendet sehr feine Nadeln zur Heilung.

Acupuncture uses very fine needles for healing.

Plural object.

7

Können Sie mir eine Sicherheitsnadel leihen?

Can you lend me a safety pin?

Compound noun 'Sicherheitsnadel'.

8

Die magnetische Nadel reagiert auf das Metall in der Nähe.

The magnetic needle reacts to the metal nearby.

Adjective 'magnetische' before the noun.

1

Dieses Projekt wurde offensichtlich mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt.

This project was obviously done in a great hurry.

Idiom 'mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt'.

2

Die Nadelstiche der Opposition trafen die Regierung empfindlich.

The needle pricks (targeted attacks) of the opposition hit the government hard.

Metaphorical use of 'Nadelstiche'.

3

Bevor die Operation begann, wurde die Nadel für die Infusion gelegt.

Before the surgery began, the needle for the infusion was placed.

Passive voice 'wurde... gelegt'.

4

Die feine Nadel der Stickmaschine bewegte sich in rasender Geschwindigkeit.

The fine needle of the embroidery machine moved at lightning speed.

Genitive 'der Stickmaschine'.

5

Er suchte vergeblich nach der Nadel im Heuhaufen der Daten.

He searched in vain for the needle in the haystack of data.

Metaphorical extension of an idiom.

6

Die Nadeln des Kaktus dienen ihm als Schutz vor Fressfeinden.

The cactus's needles serve as protection against predators.

Plural as subject.

7

Die präzise Ausrichtung der Nadel ist für das Experiment entscheidend.

The precise alignment of the needle is crucial for the experiment.

Genitive 'der Nadel'.

8

Sie spürte einen kurzen Schmerz, als die Nadel ihre Haut ritzte.

She felt a short pain as the needle scratched her skin.

Subordinate clause with 'als'.

1

Die filigrane Nadelarbeit zeugt von jahrelanger Erfahrung.

The delicate needlework bears witness to years of experience.

Compound noun 'Nadelarbeit'.

2

Die politische Debatte war geprägt von rhetorischen Nadelstichen.

The political debate was characterized by rhetorical needle pricks.

Metaphorical 'Nadelstiche'.

3

In der Mikrobiologie werden Nadeln zur Manipulation von Zellen verwendet.

In microbiology, needles are used for the manipulation of cells.

Technical plural.

4

Die Kiefernnadeln bilden am Boden eine dicke, duftende Schicht.

The pine needles form a thick, fragrant layer on the ground.

Compound plural.

5

Die Nadel des Barometers sank, was auf schlechtes Wetter hindeutete.

The barometer needle dropped, indicating bad weather.

Genitive 'des Barometers'.

6

Das Öhr der Nadel ist so klein, dass man kaum hindurchsehen kann.

The eye of the needle is so small that one can hardly see through it.

Specific term 'Öhr'.

7

Jeder Nadelstich wurde mit höchster Konzentration ausgeführt.

Every needle prick was executed with the highest concentration.

Singular subject.

8

Die Nadeln des Lärchenbaums färben sich im Herbst goldgelb.

The needles of the larch tree turn golden yellow in autumn.

Genitive 'des Lärchenbaums'.

1

Die Nadel dient hier als Metapher für die unerträgliche Schärfe der Wahrheit.

The needle serves here as a metaphor for the unbearable sharpness of truth.

Abstract philosophical usage.

2

Mit geradezu chirurgischer Präzision führte er die Nadel durch das Gewebe.

With almost surgical precision, he guided the needle through the tissue.

Adverbial phrase 'mit... Präzision'.

3

Das Gedicht thematisiert das Fallen der Nadeln als Symbol der Vergänglichkeit.

The poem addresses the falling of the needles as a symbol of transience.

Literary analysis context.

4

Die Nadelöhr-Problematik in der Logistik verzögert die gesamte Lieferkette.

The bottleneck (needle-eye) problem in logistics delays the entire supply chain.

Compound noun 'Nadelöhr-Problematik'.

5

Es ist ein Drahtseilakt, die Nadel zwischen Tradition und Moderne zu finden.

It is a balancing act to find the needle (the fine point) between tradition and modernity.

Highly metaphorical.

6

Die Nadeln der Tattoos dringen tief in die Lederhaut ein.

The tattoo needles penetrate deep into the dermis.

Technical anatomical context.

7

Unbeirrt folgte er der Nadel seines inneren Kompasses.

Unfazed, he followed the needle of his inner compass.

Dative after 'folgte'.

8

Die Nadeln der Kälte stachen ihm unbarmherzig ins Gesicht.

The needles of the cold pricked his face mercilessly.

Personification/Metaphor.

자주 쓰는 조합

die Nadel einfädeln
sich an einer Nadel stechen
eine Nadel setzen
die Nadel im Heuhaufen
die Nadeln verlieren
mit der heißen Nadel
magnetische Nadel
feine Nadel
eine Nadel suchen
viele Nadeln

자주 쓰는 구문

Nadel und Faden

— The classic pair for sewing. Always used together.

Hast du Nadel und Faden für mich?

auf Nadeln sitzen

— To be very nervous or anxious. Similar to 'on pins and needles'.

Ich sitze wegen der Prüfung auf Nadeln.

ein Piks mit der Nadel

— A small prick with a needle, usually said by doctors to children.

Nur ein kleiner Piks mit der Nadel, dann ist es vorbei.

die Nadel des Tachos

— The speedometer needle in a car.

Die Nadel des Tachos bewegte sich kaum.

eine Nadel im Heuhaufen

— Something nearly impossible to find.

Das ist die Suche nach der Nadel im Heuhaufen.

die Nadel des Plattenspielers

— The stylus of a record player.

Sei vorsichtig mit der Nadel des Plattenspielers.

Nadeln fallen lassen

— When a conifer tree loses its needles.

Der Baum lässt alle Nadeln fallen.

mit der Nadel arbeiten

— To do hand-sewing or embroidery.

Sie arbeitet gerne mit der Nadel.

eine neue Nadel

— A fresh needle, often used in medical or sewing contexts.

Ich brauche eine neue Nadel für die Nähmaschine.

die Nadel sticht

— The needle pricks or stings.

Die Nadel sticht in den Finger.

자주 혼동되는 단어

die Nadel vs der Nagel

A nail for wood. Masculine gender.

die Nadel vs die Nudel

A noodle for eating. Different vowel sound.

die Nadel vs der Zeiger

A clock hand. General term for pointer.

관용어 및 표현

"Die Nadel im Heuhaufen suchen"

— To look for something that is extremely difficult to find.

Einen ehrlichen Politiker zu finden, ist wie die Nadel im Heuhaufen zu suchen.

informal/neutral
"Wie auf Nadeln sitzen"

— To be extremely restless or nervous.

Vor dem Vorstellungsgespräch saß er wie auf Nadeln.

informal/neutral
"Mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt"

— Something done very quickly and carelessly.

Der Bericht wurde mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt und enthält viele Fehler.

neutral
"Ein Nadelöhr passieren"

— To go through a very narrow or difficult passage/process.

Die Bewerber müssen ein enges Nadelöhr passieren.

neutral/formal
"Nadelstiche versetzen"

— To make small, annoying attacks or provocations.

Der Journalist versetzte dem Minister immer wieder kleine Nadelstiche.

neutral/formal
"An der Nadel hängen"

— To be addicted to intravenous drugs.

Er hing jahrelang an der Nadel, bevor er einen Entzug machte.

informal/slang
"Eine Nadel fallen hören"

— It is so quiet that you could hear a needle drop.

Es war so still, man konnte eine Nadel fallen hören.

neutral
"Sich wie ein Nadelkissen fühlen"

— To feel like you have been poked many times (e.g., after many injections).

Nach der Blutuntersuchung fühlte ich mich wie ein Nadelkissen.

informal
"Die Nadel springt"

— Referring to a record player skipping, or metaphorically repeating oneself.

Du erzählst das zum zehnten Mal, bei dir springt wohl die Nadel.

informal
"Keine Nadel mehr zu Boden fallen können"

— To be extremely crowded.

In der U-Bahn konnte keine Nadel mehr zu Boden fallen.

neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

die Nadel vs Nagel

Similar sound and both are sharp metal objects.

Nagel is used with a hammer for construction; Nadel is used for sewing or medicine.

Ich brauche einen Nagel für das Bild, aber eine Nadel für mein Hemd.

die Nadel vs Nudel

Similar spelling and sound.

Nudel is food (pasta); Nadel is a tool.

Ich esse Nudeln, aber ich nähe mit einer Nadel.

die Nadel vs Stift

Both can be long and thin.

Stift is a pen or a peg; Nadel is specifically a needle.

Ich schreibe mit dem Stift und nähe mit der Nadel.

die Nadel vs Dorn

Both are sharp and can prick.

Dorn is a thorn on a rose; Nadel is a leaf on a pine or a tool.

Die Rose hat Dornen, die Tanne hat Nadeln.

die Nadel vs Pfeil

Both point and are sharp.

Pfeil is an arrow; Nadel is much smaller and used for sewing.

Der Pfeil trifft das Ziel, die Nadel trifft den Stoff.

문장 패턴

A1

Ich habe eine [Nadel].

Ich habe eine Nadel.

A2

Ich brauche eine [Nadel], um [zu nähen].

Ich brauche eine Nadel, um den Knopf anzunähen.

B1

Die [Nadel] zeigt nach [Norden].

Die Kompassnadel zeigt nach Norden.

B2

Das ist wie die Suche nach der [Nadel] im [Heuhaufen].

Das ist wie die Suche nach der Nadel im Heuhaufen.

C1

Die [Nadeln] der [Kiefer] sind [sehr lang].

Die Nadeln der Kiefer sind sehr lang.

C2

Mit der [heißen Nadel] [gestrickt].

Dieses Projekt wurde mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt.

A2

Pass auf die [Nadel] auf!

Pass auf die Nadel auf!

B1

Ich sitze auf [Nadeln].

Ich sitze auf Nadeln.

어휘 가족

명사

Nähnadel
Stricknadel
Stecknadel
Sicherheitsnadel
Kompassnadel
Tachonadel
Nadelwald
Nadelöhr
Nadelkissen
Nadelstich

동사

nadeln (to drop needles, like a tree)
einnadeln (rarely used)
stechen (related action)
nähen (related action)

형용사

nadelförmig
nadelig
nadelholzartig

관련

Faden
Stoff
Spritze
Kiefer
Tanne

사용법

frequency

High (essential everyday object)

자주 하는 실수
  • Der Nadel ist scharf. Die Nadel ist scharf.

    Nadel is feminine, not masculine.

  • Ich brauche einen Nagel zum Nähen. Ich brauche eine Nadel zum Nähen.

    Nagel is a nail; Nadel is a needle.

  • Die Nadels sind grün. Die Nadeln sind grün.

    The plural of Nadel is Nadeln.

  • Ich fädele die Nadel aus. Ich fädele die Nadel ein.

    To thread a needle is 'einfädeln' (in), not 'ausfädeln' (out).

  • Ich esse eine Nadel. Ich esse eine Nudel.

    Confusing needle with noodle.

Gender Tip

Associate 'die Nadel' with 'die Naht' (the seam) to remember it is feminine.

Nature Context

Remember that German forests are full of 'Nadeln'. This helps connect the word to nature.

Haystack Idiom

Learn 'Nadel im Heuhaufen' early; it is used exactly like in English and is very common.

Long A

The 'a' in Nadel is long. Practice saying 'aaaa' like at the dentist.

Compound Power

Once you know 'Nadel', you can understand 10+ other words like 'Nadelwald' or 'Stricknadel'.

Not Nagel!

Never use 'Nadel' when you mean a nail for a hammer. That is 'Nagel'.

Doctor Visits

If you are afraid of injections, tell the doctor: 'Ich habe Angst vor Nadeln'.

Navigation

The 'Nadel' always points the way on a compass.

Hobbies

If you like knitting, you need 'Stricknadeln'. It's a great conversation starter.

Eye of the Needle

The hole is the 'Öhr'. Think of it as the needle's 'ear' (Ohr), but with an 'ö'.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a **NA**ughty **DEL**phin (dolphin) trying to sew a shirt with a **Nadel**.

시각적 연상

Picture a sharp sewing needle next to a pine needle; both are 'Nadeln' because they are thin and sharp.

Word Web

Nähen Spritze Wald Kompass Scharf Faden Öhr Spitz

챌린지

Try to name five things in your house that have a 'Nadel' (e.g., sewing kit, record player, pine branch, compass, blood sugar monitor).

어원

From Middle High German 'nādel(e)', from Old High German 'nādala'. It is related to the verb 'nähen' (to sew).

원래 의미: A tool for sewing.

Germanic (cognate with English 'needle', Dutch 'naald').

문화적 맥락

Be careful when using 'an der Nadel hängen' as it is a very strong and negative term for drug addiction.

The idiom 'needle in a haystack' is identical in both cultures. The association with nervousness ('pins and needles') is also shared.

Grimm's Fairy Tales: Needles and pins often appear as magical or dangerous objects. The phrase 'Das Nadelöhr' is a biblical reference used in German to describe a difficult path. Modern German pop songs sometimes use the 'Plattenspielernadel' as a nostalgic metaphor for life.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Sewing and Tailoring

  • Nadel und Faden
  • die Nadel einfädeln
  • eine Nähnadel benutzen
  • den Knopf mit der Nadel annähen

Medical and Health

  • eine Nadel setzen
  • Angst vor Nadeln haben
  • die Nadel der Spritze
  • ein kleiner Piks mit der Nadel

Nature and Forestry

  • der Nadelwald
  • die Nadeln der Tanne
  • der Baum verliert Nadeln
  • Kiefernnadeln

Technical and Instruments

  • die Kompassnadel
  • die Tachonadel
  • die Nadel des Plattenspielers
  • die magnetische Nadel

Hobbies (Knitting/Crochet)

  • Stricknadeln
  • Häkelnadel
  • mit den Nadeln klappern
  • eine Rundstricknadel

대화 시작하기

"Könntest du mir kurz helfen, diesen Faden in die Nadel einzufädeln?"

"Hast du schon mal Akupunktur ausprobiert? Ich habe ein bisschen Angst vor den Nadeln."

"Warum verliert unser Weihnachtsbaum dieses Jahr so viele Nadeln?"

"Suchst du auch immer ewig nach deinen Schlüsseln? Das ist bei mir wie die Nadel im Heuhaufen."

"Welche Stricknadeln empfiehlst du für diese dicke Wolle?"

일기 주제

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du dich wie auf Nadeln gefühlt hast. Warum warst du so nervös?

Hast du jemals etwas mit Nadel und Faden repariert? Erzähle davon.

Was denkst du über Tattoos? Wie fühlst du dich bei dem Gedanken an die Nadeln?

Beschreibe einen Spaziergang durch einen Nadelwald. Wie riecht es dort und wie sieht der Boden aus?

Schreibe über eine schwierige Suche nach etwas Kleinem. War es wie die Nadel im Heuhaufen?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

'Nadel' is feminine. You always say 'die Nadel'.

The plural is 'die Nadeln'. You simply add an 'n' to the singular form.

Yes, in German, the sharp leaves of coniferous trees are called 'Nadeln'.

You say 'Nadel und Faden'. It is a very common pair.

It means 'the needle in a haystack', referring to something very difficult to find.

Yes, it is called a 'Sicherheitsnadel'.

It is a knitting needle.

It is called the 'Öhr' (eye).

You say 'eine Nadel einfädeln'.

Yes, the pointer on a speedometer is often called the 'Tachonadel'.

셀프 테스트 180 질문

writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'die Nadel' und 'nähen'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Was ist 'die Nadel im Heuhaufen'? Erkläre kurz.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz über einen Tannenbaum und seine Nadeln.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Warum haben manche Menschen Angst vor Nadeln?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Benutze das Wort 'Kompassnadel' in einem Satz.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Was bedeutet 'auf Nadeln sitzen'?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz über eine Krankenschwester und eine Nadel.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Was ist der Unterschied zwischen einer Nadel und einem Nagel?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'Sicherheitsnadel'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Beschreibe eine Nähnadel.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Was macht ein Schneider mit einer Nadel?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Benutze 'Nadelwald' in einem Satz.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Was ist eine 'Stricknadel'?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz über Akupunktur.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Was passiert, wenn man eine Nadel einfädelt?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Benutze 'Tachonadel' in einem Satz.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz über einen Kaktus.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Was bedeutet 'mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt'?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'Plattenspielernadel'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Warum ist eine Nadel magnetisch?

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Beschreibe, wie man eine Nadel benutzt.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was sagst du beim Arzt, wenn du Angst vor Spritzen hast?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Erkläre das Sprichwort 'die Nadel im Heuhaufen suchen'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Wie sieht ein Nadelwald aus?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Warum sind Nadeln gefährlich für kleine Kinder?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was ist eine Sicherheitsnadel?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was macht man mit Stricknadeln?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Erzähle von einer Situation, in der du 'auf Nadeln gesessen' hast.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Wie funktioniert ein Kompass mit einer Nadel?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Warum verliert ein Weihnachtsbaum seine Nadeln?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was ist der Unterschied zwischen Nadel und Nagel?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was ist ein Nadelöhr?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Hast du schon mal eine Nadel eingefädelt?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was ist eine Tachonadel?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Benutze das Wort 'Nadelstich' metaphorisch.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was ist eine Häkelnadel?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Warum sind Nadeln aus Stahl?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was ist ein Nadelkissen?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Was bedeutet 'mit der heißen Nadel gestrickt'?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Wie fühlt sich ein Kaktus an?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Die Nadel ist weg.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Wo sind die Nadeln?'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Ich habe eine Nadel gefunden.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Die Tanne hat grüne Nadeln.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Pass auf die scharfe Nadel auf!'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Er sucht die Nadel im Heuhaufen.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Die Kompassnadel zittert.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Ich sitze wie auf Nadeln.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Fädle den Faden in die Nadel ein.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Die Nadel des Plattenspielers ist sehr fein.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Ein Nadelwald riecht gut.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Haben Sie eine Sicherheitsnadel?'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Die Krankenschwester setzt die Nadel.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Das Öhr der Nadel ist klein.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Schreibe den Satz auf: 'Stricknadeln klappern beim Stricken.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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