At the A1 level, you only need to know 'Gleis' in the context of basic travel. You will most likely encounter it when looking for your train at the station. You should learn to recognize the word on signs and in simple announcements like 'Gleis 4.' The most important phrase to master is 'Auf welchem Gleis...?' (On which track...?). This allows you to ask for directions. You should also understand that 'Gleis' is the place where the train arrives. At this stage, don't worry about complex grammar; focus on connecting the word 'Gleis' with the number of your train's departure point. You will see it on your ticket next to the departure time. For example, 'Abfahrt 10:30, Gleis 2.' Knowing that 'das Gleis' is neuter is helpful, but the priority is practical navigation.
At the A2 level, you begin to use 'Gleis' in more complete sentences. You can describe where you are waiting: 'Ich warte am Gleis 5.' You can also understand basic announcements about changes, such as 'Gleiswechsel' (track change). You should be able to follow directions like 'Gehen Sie zu Gleis 10.' At this level, you should also be aware of the plural form 'Gleise' and the basic dative plural 'auf den Gleisen.' You might start to notice the difference between 'Gleis' (the track number) and 'Bahnsteig' (the platform), helping you to be more precise in your communication. You can describe simple events, like a train pulling into the station: 'Der Zug fährt auf Gleis 1 ein.'
At the B1 level, you can handle more complex situations involving 'Gleis.' You can complain about delays or track changes and ask for detailed information. You understand the difference between 'am Gleis' (where you stand) and 'auf dem Gleis' (where the train is). You are also introduced to the first metaphorical uses of the word, such as 'auf dem richtigen Gleis sein' (to be on the right track). You can read longer texts about railway construction or travel tips and understand the role of 'Gleisbauarbeiten' (track work) in causing delays. Your vocabulary expands to include compounds like 'Abstellgleis' (siding) and 'Gleisabschnitt' (track section), which are useful for finding your seat on a long-distance train.
At the B2 level, you use 'Gleis' comfortably in both literal and figurative contexts. You can participate in discussions about infrastructure and public transport policy. You understand technical nuances, such as why a certain 'Gleis' might be closed for maintenance. In a professional context, you can use idioms like 'etwas in die richtigen Gleise lenken' (to set something on the right track) to describe project management. You can understand more nuanced announcements and newspaper articles that use the word in the context of urban planning or economic development. You are also aware of the historical significance of the railway in German-speaking countries and how 'Gleise' connected distant regions.
At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated understanding of 'Gleis.' You can use it in academic or technical discussions about engineering and logistics. You are familiar with literary uses where 'Gleise' symbolize fate, industrialization, or social division. You can distinguish between very similar terms like 'Trasse,' 'Schiene,' and 'Gleis' with precision. You understand the legal implications of terms like 'Gleisanschluss' for businesses. Your ability to use the word metaphorically is fluid, allowing you to describe complex social or personal transitions. You can follow fast-paced debates about the future of the 'Schienenverkehr' (rail traffic) and the modernization of 'Gleisanlagen' (track systems) without difficulty.
At the C2 level, 'Gleis' is a tool for nuanced expression. You can analyze the etymological development of the word from Middle High German to the present. You can appreciate and use high-level metaphors in speeches or creative writing. You understand the technical intricacies of 'Gleisgeometrie' and its impact on high-speed rail travel. You can engage with historical texts that discuss the 'Gleis' as a symbol of 19th-century progress or 20th-century tragedy. Your command of the word is native-like, allowing you to use it in puns, wordplay, and highly specialized professional contexts. You can write detailed reports on railway infrastructure or philosophical essays on the concept of paths and tracks in human life.

Gleis 30초 만에

  • Gleis means 'track' and is used to identify where a train arrives at a station.
  • It is a neuter noun (das Gleis) with the plural form 'Gleise'.
  • Prepositions are key: trains are 'auf' the Gleis, people wait 'am' the Gleis.
  • Metaphorically, it refers to being on the right or wrong path in life or work.
The German word Gleis is an essential noun for anyone navigating the German-speaking world, particularly its highly efficient railway systems. At its most fundamental level, Gleis refers to the railway track—the physical pair of steel rails upon which a train travels. However, for the everyday traveler, its most common application is to denote the specific track number at a train station where a train is scheduled to arrive or depart. While an English speaker might say 'The train is at platform 4,' a German speaker will almost always say 'Der Zug steht auf Gleis 4.' This distinction is vital for learners to grasp early on.
Physical Infrastructure
In a technical sense, the Gleis consists of the rails (Schienen), the sleepers (Schwellen), and the ballast (Schotter). Engineers use this term to describe the entire track structure.
Navigational Marker
For passengers, Gleis acts as the primary address for their train. Station displays and mobile apps like DB Navigator will always list the Gleis prominently.

Entschuldigung, von welchem Gleis fährt der ICE nach Berlin ab?

The word has its roots in the Middle High German 'geleis,' which originally meant a rut or track left by a wagon wheel in the earth. This historical context is fascinating because it shows the evolution of transport from muddy paths to high-speed rail. In modern German, Gleis is also used metaphorically. To be 'auf dem richtigen Gleis' means to be on the right track in life or a project. Conversely, 'aufs Abstellgleis geraten' means to be sidelined or put on the back burner, much like a train carriage that is no longer in active use and is parked on a siding.

Vorsicht an Gleis 1! Ein Zug fährt durch.

In large stations (Hauptbahnhöfe), you might encounter 'Gleisabschnitte' (track sections), labeled A, B, C, etc., to help you find your specific car (Wagen). This level of precision is a hallmark of German rail travel. Whether you are a tourist catching a regional train or a business traveler on the ICE, mastering the word Gleis is your first step to a stress-free journey. It is a neuter noun (das Gleis), and its plural is Gleise. You will hear it in every station announcement, see it on every ticket, and use it every time you ask for directions. It is the literal and metaphorical backbone of German mobility.
Metaphorical Use
Being 'auf dem richtigen Gleis' implies successful progress, while 'aus dem Gleis geraten' means to lose control or go off the rails.

Wir müssen das Projekt wieder in die richtigen Gleise lenken.

Das tote Gleis führt zu einer alten Fabrik.

Die Bauarbeiter verlegen neue Gleise für die S-Bahn.

Using Gleis correctly requires an understanding of German prepositions and the specific verbs associated with railway travel. The most common preposition used with Gleis is 'auf.' When a train is at a track, it is 'auf Gleis 4.' When it arrives, it 'fährt auf Gleis 4 ein.' When it departs, it 'fährt von Gleis 4 ab.'
Arrival and Departure
Verbs like 'einfahren' (to pull in) and 'abfahren' (to depart) are almost always paired with 'auf' or 'von' and the specific Gleis number.

Der Regionalexpress nach Köln fährt heute ausnahmsweise von Gleis 12 ab.

Another important preposition is 'am.' While the train is 'auf dem Gleis,' the passengers wait 'am Gleis' (by the track). This is a subtle but important distinction. If you say 'Ich stehe auf dem Gleis,' you are literally standing on the rails, which is a dangerous place to be!
Waiting and Location
Use 'am Gleis' to describe where people stand. 'Wir treffen uns am Gleis 3.'

Bitte bleiben Sie am Gleis hinter der weißen Linie stehen.

In more advanced contexts, you will see Gleis used in the plural to describe the entire layout of a station. 'Die Gleise in diesem Bahnhof sind sehr modern.' When discussing construction or maintenance, you might hear about 'Gleisbauarbeiten' (track construction works).

Wegen einer Signalstörung stehen alle Züge auf den Gleisen still.

Metaphorical usage often involves the preposition 'in.' 'Ein Vorhaben in die richtigen Gleise lenken' (to steer a project into the right tracks). This implies bringing order and direction to a chaotic situation. Another common phrase is 'aufs Abstellgleis schieben,' which means to marginalize someone or something.
Technical Nuances
In railway engineering, 'Gleis' refers to the geometric path. Phrases like 'Gleisbogen' (track curve) or 'Gleisneigung' (track inclination) are common in technical reports.

Nach dem politischen Skandal wurde der Minister aufs Abstellgleis geschoben.

Die Lokomotive wechselte das Gleis, um den Güterwagen anzukoppeln.

Auf welchem Gleis kommt der Zug aus Hamburg an?

Die Passagiere stürmten zum anderen Gleis, als die Durchsage kam.

The most common place to hear the word Gleis is, unsurprisingly, at the 'Bahnhof' (train station). German railway stations are centers of linguistic activity, and the automated voice of the 'Bahnhofsdurchsage' (station announcement) is a constant source of the word. You will hear phrases like 'Einfahrt auf Gleis 4,' which alerts passengers to the arrival of a train.
Station Announcements
Listen for the chime and the phrase 'Gleisänderung' (track change). This is critical if you don't want to miss your connection.

'Information zu ICE 593 nach München: Heute von Gleis 5 statt Gleis 3.'

Beyond the station, Gleis is a staple of news reports regarding infrastructure. If there is a strike (Streik) or a technical failure, news anchors will report that 'Züge auf den Gleisen stehen bleiben' (trains are remaining stationary on the tracks).
In the Media
Traffic reports on the radio often mention 'Personen im Gleis,' a serious warning that causes immediate stops for all nearby trains.

Wegen Personen im Gleis ist die Strecke zwischen Frankfurt und Mannheim gesperrt.

You will also hear the word in professional settings, particularly in project management. When a colleague says, 'Wir müssen das Projekt wieder in die Gleise bringen,' they are using a common idiom for getting things back on schedule and organized.

Der Zugbegleiter sagte, wir halten gleich auf Gleis 1 Nord.

In literature and film, Gleise are often used symbolically to represent destiny, journeys, or the industrial world. A scene of a character walking along the Gleise usually suggests a moment of transition or wandering.
Daily Commute
Commuters frequently ask each other, 'Ist das Gleis 2 für die S6?' to confirm they are in the right spot.

Am Gleis herrschte am Montagmorgen großes Gedränge.

Die alten Gleise im Hafen sind schon lange verrostet.

Der Schaffner kontrolliert die Fahrkarten schon am Gleis.

Gibt es am Gleis 9 einen Aufzug?

One of the most frequent errors for English speakers learning German is the confusion between Gleis and Bahnsteig. While in English 'platform' can refer to both the physical platform and the track number, in German, they are distinct concepts.
Gleis vs. Bahnsteig
The 'Bahnsteig' is the concrete structure you walk on. The 'Gleis' is the track where the train stops. You wait *on* the Bahnsteig, but your train is *at* the Gleis.

Falsch: Ich stehe auf Gleis 4. (Incorrect unless you are literally on the rails!)
Richtig: Ich stehe am Gleis 4 oder auf dem Bahnsteig 4.

Another common mistake involves the gender of the word. Since many travel-related words like 'der Bahnhof' or 'der Zug' are masculine, learners often mistakenly say 'der Gleis.' It is important to memorize it as 'das Gleis.'
Gender Confusion
Das Gleis is neuter. This affects the articles and adjectives used with it: 'ein neues Gleis,' 'das besetzte Gleis.'

Falsch: Welcher Gleis ist das?
Richtig: Welches Gleis ist das?

Using the wrong preposition is also a frequent pitfall. While 'auf' is used for the train's location, 'an' is used for the passenger's location relative to the track. However, in casual speech, 'auf Gleis 4' is often used by passengers to mean they are waiting at that specific track number, but 'am Gleis' is grammatically more precise for people.

Verwechseln Sie nicht Gleis (track) mit Schiene (rail). Eine Schiene ist nur ein Teil des Gleises.

Pluralization
The plural is 'Gleise.' Avoid adding an -n in the nominative plural. It only takes an -n in the dative plural: 'auf den Gleisen.'

Die Bauarbeiter arbeiten an den Gleisen, nicht an den 'Gleisenen'.

Warum stehen so viele Leute an Gleis 1?

Bitte treten Sie vom Gleis zurück!

Das Gleis ist gesperrt.

To truly master the vocabulary of the railway, it is helpful to compare Gleis with its synonyms and related terms. While Gleis is the most common word for a track, others exist for specific contexts.
Schiene vs. Gleis
'Schiene' refers specifically to the single steel rail. A Gleis consists of two 'Schienen.' You use 'Schiene' in compounds like 'Schienennetz' (rail network).
Bahnsteig vs. Gleis
As mentioned before, 'Bahnsteig' is the platform. In some regions, 'Perron' is used (mostly Switzerland and occasionally Austria).

Der Zug fährt auf Gleis 4 ein, aber die Fahrgäste warten auf dem Bahnsteig.

Other terms include 'Trasse,' which refers to the planned route or path of a railway line through the landscape. This is more of a planning or engineering term. 'Fahrweg' is another technical term for the path a vehicle takes, including tracks.

Die Ingenieure planen eine neue Bahntrasse durch den Wald.

Compound Nuances
'Gleisbett' refers to the foundation (ballast) of the track. 'Gleisanschluss' is a private connection to the main rail network.

Das Unternehmen hat einen eigenen Gleisanschluss für den Güterverkehr.

Die Straßenbahn benutzt die gleichen Gleise wie die Autos in der Innenstadt.

Der Zug muss das Gleis wechseln, um die Verspätung aufzuholen.

Es gibt zwei parallele Gleise für den Hochgeschwindigkeitsverkehr.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The word originally described the marks left by wagons in the mud. Today, it describes high-speed steel infrastructure.

발음 가이드

UK /ɡlaɪs/
US /ɡlaɪs/
The stress is on the only syllable.
라임이 맞는 단어
Mais Reis Preis Heiß Weiß Eis Beweis Kreis
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing the 'ei' as 'ee' (like 'glees'). In German, 'ei' is always 'eye'.
  • Over-emphasizing the 's' like a 'z'. It should be a sharp 's' sound.

난이도

독해 1/5

Very easy to recognize on signs.

쓰기 2/5

Remember the 'ei' spelling.

말하기 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but remember the neuter gender.

듣기 1/5

Frequently heard in announcements.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

Zug Bahnhof fahren stehen wo

다음에 배울 것

Bahnsteig Verspätung Anschluss Umsteigen Fahrplan

고급

Gleisoberbau Weichenstellung Trassenführung

알아야 할 문법

Neuter nouns ending in -is often take -es in genitive.

des Gleises

Dative plural nouns take an -n ending.

auf den Gleisen

Two-way prepositions (Wechselpräpositionen) with location.

Der Zug steht auf dem Gleis (Dative).

Two-way prepositions with movement.

Der Zug fährt auf das Gleis (Accusative).

Compound nouns take the gender of the last word.

Der Gleiswechsel (Masculine because of 'der Wechsel').

수준별 예문

1

Der Zug kommt auf Gleis 3.

The train arrives on track 3.

Simple present tense with preposition 'auf'.

2

Wo ist Gleis 7?

Where is track 7?

Question with 'wo' and neuter noun 'Gleis'.

3

Das ist Gleis 1.

That is track 1.

Demonstrative pronoun 'das' with 'ist'.

4

Mein Zug fährt von Gleis 5.

My train leaves from track 5.

Preposition 'von' indicates the starting point.

5

Gleis 2 ist dort.

Track 2 is there.

Adverb of place 'dort'.

6

Bitte gehen Sie zu Gleis 4.

Please go to track 4.

Imperative form 'gehen Sie' with preposition 'zu'.

7

Der ICE steht an Gleis 6.

The ICE is at track 6.

Preposition 'an' describes the location near the track.

8

Vorsicht am Gleis!

Watch out at the track!

Exclamation using 'am' (an + dem).

1

Wir müssen zum anderen Gleis laufen.

We have to run to the other track.

Modal verb 'müssen' with dative neuter 'dem anderen Gleis'.

2

Es gibt eine Gleisänderung für Ihren Zug.

There is a track change for your train.

Compound noun 'Gleisänderung'.

3

Der Zug nach Berlin hat heute Gleiswechsel.

The train to Berlin has a track change today.

Noun 'Gleiswechsel' used as a direct object.

4

Ich warte schon seit zehn Minuten am Gleis.

I have been waiting at the track for ten minutes.

Present tense with 'seit' to indicate duration.

5

Die S-Bahn fährt auf Gleis 10 ein.

The S-Bahn is pulling into track 10.

Separable verb 'einfahren'.

6

Können Sie mir sagen, wo Gleis 21 ist?

Can you tell me where track 21 is?

Indirect question with 'wo'.

7

Hinter Gleis 1 befindet sich der Ausgang.

The exit is located behind track 1.

Preposition 'hinter' with dative case.

8

Die Gleise sind bei Regen rutschig.

The tracks are slippery when it rains.

Plural 'Gleise' as the subject.

1

Wegen Bauarbeiten ist das Gleis gesperrt.

The track is closed due to construction work.

Genitive preposition 'wegen' with neuter noun.

2

Der Zugbegleiter sagte, wir halten auf Gleis 4 Abschnitt B.

The conductor said we are stopping at track 4, section B.

Indirect speech with 'sagte'.

3

Wir sind endlich wieder auf dem richtigen Gleis mit dem Projekt.

We are finally back on the right track with the project.

Metaphorical use of 'Gleis'.

4

Die alten Gleise werden durch neue ersetzt.

The old tracks are being replaced by new ones.

Passive voice 'werden ersetzt'.

5

Achten Sie beim Überqueren der Gleise auf die Signale.

Watch the signals when crossing the tracks.

Nominalized verb 'Überqueren' with genitive plural.

6

Das Abstellgleis wird für alte Waggons genutzt.

The siding is used for old wagons.

Compound noun 'Abstellgleis'.

7

Der Bahnhof hat insgesamt vierundzwanzig Gleise.

The station has twenty-four tracks in total.

Plural 'Gleise' with a large number.

8

Treten Sie bitte von der Gleiskante zurück.

Please step back from the edge of the track.

Compound noun 'Gleiskante' (track edge).

1

Die Modernisierung der Gleisanlagen kostet Millionen.

The modernization of the track systems costs millions.

Genitive plural 'der Gleisanlagen'.

2

Er fühlte sich in seiner Firma aufs Abstellgleis geschoben.

He felt like he had been sidelined in his company.

Idiomatic expression 'aufs Abstellgleis schieben'.

3

Die Gleisgeometrie muss bei hohen Geschwindigkeiten perfekt sein.

The track geometry must be perfect at high speeds.

Technical compound noun 'Gleisgeometrie'.

4

Durch den Gleiswechsel verzögerte sich die Abfahrt um 15 Minuten.

Due to the track change, the departure was delayed by 15 minutes.

Reflexive verb 'verzögerte sich'.

5

Die Fabrik besitzt einen eigenen Gleisanschluss für den Export.

The factory has its own rail siding for exports.

Compound noun 'Gleisanschluss'.

6

Man muss das Leben manchmal in neue Gleise lenken.

Sometimes you have to steer your life into new tracks.

Metaphorical use in the plural.

7

Die Schotterreinigung ist ein wichtiger Teil der Gleisinstandhaltung.

Ballast cleaning is an important part of track maintenance.

Technical term 'Gleisinstandhaltung'.

8

Züge dürfen auf diesem Gleis nur mit Schrittgeschwindigkeit fahren.

Trains are only allowed to travel at walking pace on this track.

Adverbial phrase 'mit Schrittgeschwindigkeit'.

1

Die maroden Gleise stellten ein erhebliches Sicherheitsrisiko dar.

The dilapidated tracks posed a significant security risk.

Adjective 'marode' describing 'Gleise'.

2

Die politische Debatte ist völlig aus den Gleisen geraten.

The political debate has gone completely off the rails.

Idiom 'aus den Gleisen geraten'.

3

Die Anwohner protestieren gegen die geplante Güterzugtrasse.

The residents are protesting against the planned freight train route.

Noun 'Trasse' as a synonym for planned 'Gleis' path.

4

Die Gleisbettreinigung erfolgt heute vollautomatisch.

Track bed cleaning is now fully automated.

Compound 'Gleisbettreinigung'.

5

In seinem Roman symbolisieren die Gleise die Unausweichlichkeit des Schicksals.

In his novel, the tracks symbolize the inevitability of fate.

Literary analysis context.

6

Die Weiche stellt sicher, dass der Zug auf das richtige Gleis geleitet wird.

The switch ensures that the train is guided onto the correct track.

Passive voice 'wird geleitet'.

7

Die Kapazität der Gleise ist während der Stoßzeiten erschöpft.

The capacity of the tracks is exhausted during peak hours.

Abstract noun 'Kapazität'.

8

Der Ausbau der Gleisinfrastruktur ist für die Verkehrswende essenziell.

Expanding the track infrastructure is essential for the transport transition.

Formal vocabulary 'Verkehrswende' and 'essenziell'.

1

Die Gleisverwerfung infolge der Hitzewelle unterbrach den Bahnverkehr.

The track buckling due to the heatwave interrupted rail traffic.

Technical term 'Gleisverwerfung'.

2

Das Unternehmen konnte seine Expansionspläne erfolgreich in die richtigen Gleise lenken.

The company successfully steered its expansion plans onto the right track.

Sophisticated metaphorical usage.

3

Die historische Bedeutung der Gleise für die industrielle Revolution ist unbestritten.

The historical importance of tracks for the Industrial Revolution is undisputed.

Complex sentence structure with genitive.

4

Eine präzise Gleislage ist Voraussetzung für Geschwindigkeiten über 300 km/h.

Precise track alignment is a prerequisite for speeds over 300 km/h.

Technical term 'Gleislage'.

5

Die Lyrik der Moderne thematisiert oft die Kälte der stählernen Gleise.

Modernist poetry often themes the coldness of the steel tracks.

Abstract literary discussion.

6

Die Instandsetzung der Gleise nach dem Hochwasser wird Monate in Anspruch nehmen.

The repair of the tracks after the flood will take months.

Phrase 'in Anspruch nehmen'.

7

Das Gleisdreieck diente früher als wichtiger Knotenpunkt für den Güterumschlag.

The track triangle formerly served as an important hub for freight handling.

Historical technical term 'Gleisdreieck'.

8

Die Schwingungsdämpfung im Gleisoberbau reduziert die Lärmbelastung für Anwohner.

Vibration damping in the track superstructure reduces noise pollution for residents.

Highly technical engineering vocabulary.

자주 쓰는 조합

totes Gleis
besetztes Gleis
Gleis wechseln
am Gleis stehen
Gleisbauarbeiten
ins Gleis bringen
vom Gleis abkommen
Gleisanschluss
Gleisnummer
Gleisbereich

자주 쓰는 구문

Auf welchem Gleis?

— Standard question to ask which track a train uses.

Auf welchem Gleis fährt der Zug nach Paris?

Gleis 4 Einfahrt.

— A typical announcement that a train is arriving.

An Gleis 4 Einfahrt des RE1.

Vorsicht am Gleis!

— A warning to be careful near the tracks.

Vorsicht am Gleis, der Zug fährt durch!

Ein totes Gleis.

— A track that is no longer in use.

Die Schienen führen auf ein totes Gleis.

Gleiswechsel angekündigt.

— An announcement that the train will arrive at a different track.

Es wurde ein Gleiswechsel angekündigt.

Personen im Gleis.

— A warning that unauthorized people are on the tracks.

Der Zug hält wegen Personen im Gleis.

Vom Gleis zurücktreten.

— To step back from the track edge.

Bitte treten Sie vom Gleis zurück.

Gleis gesperrt.

— The track is closed for traffic.

Wegen eines Unfalls ist das Gleis gesperrt.

Neues Gleis verlegen.

— To lay down new tracks.

Die Arbeiter verlegen ein neues Gleis.

Am Gleis warten.

— To wait for a train by the track.

Wir warten am Gleis auf dich.

자주 혼동되는 단어

Gleis vs Bahnsteig

Gleis is the track, Bahnsteig is the platform.

Gleis vs Schiene

Gleis is the whole track, Schiene is just one rail.

Gleis vs Kreis

Sounds similar but means 'circle'.

관용어 및 표현

"aufs Abstellgleis schieben"

— To marginalize or ignore someone or something.

Er wurde in der Firma aufs Abstellgleis geschoben.

informal/business
"in die richtigen Gleise lenken"

— To set something on the right path or bring order to it.

Die Chefin lenkte das Projekt in die richtigen Gleise.

neutral
"aus dem Gleis geraten"

— To lose control or go wrong (like a train derailing).

Sein Leben ist völlig aus dem Gleis geraten.

literary/informal
"auf dem richtigen Gleis sein"

— To be making good progress or doing the right thing.

Ich glaube, wir sind jetzt auf dem richtigen Gleis.

neutral
"auf das falsche Gleis geraten"

— To make a mistake in direction or logic.

Mit dieser Theorie bist du auf das falsche Gleis geraten.

neutral
"alles läuft in gewohnten Gleisen"

— Everything is running as usual/routine.

Nach dem Urlaub lief alles wieder in gewohnten Gleisen.

neutral
"ein totes Gleis sein"

— To be a dead end or a useless endeavor.

Diese Strategie ist ein totes Gleis.

informal
"jemanden aus dem Gleis werfen"

— To upset or disturb someone's life significantly.

Die Nachricht hat ihn völlig aus dem Gleis geworfen.

informal
"wieder ins Gleis kommen"

— To return to normality or a productive state.

Nach der Krise muss die Wirtschaft wieder ins Gleis kommen.

neutral
"auf zwei Gleisen fahren"

— To pursue two different strategies at once (often used in politics).

Die Regierung fährt bei diesem Thema auf zwei Gleisen.

journalistic

혼동하기 쉬운

Gleis vs Bahnsteig

Both refer to the place where you catch a train.

Gleis is the track number/rails, Bahnsteig is the physical platform.

Der Zug kommt an Gleis 4, aber der Bahnsteig ist überfüllt.

Gleis vs Schiene

Both are parts of the railway.

Schiene is the individual rail; Gleis is the pair of rails and the path.

Die Schiene muss repariert werden, damit das Gleis wieder befahrbar ist.

Gleis vs Trasse

Both refer to railway paths.

Trasse is the geographic route; Gleis is the physical track structure.

Die Trasse ist 50km lang, aber die Gleise sind noch nicht verlegt.

Gleis vs Steig

Short for Bahnsteig.

Steig is masculine, Gleis is neuter.

An welchem Steig? An Gleis 3.

Gleis vs Linie

Both refer to routes.

Linie is the service (e.g., S1), Gleis is the physical track.

Die Linie S1 fährt heute von Gleis 2.

문장 패턴

A1

Wo ist Gleis [Nummer]?

Wo ist Gleis 5?

A1

Zug auf Gleis [Nummer].

Zug auf Gleis 2.

A2

Der Zug fährt von Gleis [Nummer] ab.

Der Zug fährt von Gleis 10 ab.

A2

Wir warten am Gleis [Nummer].

Wir warten am Gleis 1.

B1

Wegen [Grund] ist Gleis [Nummer] gesperrt.

Wegen Bauarbeiten ist Gleis 4 gesperrt.

B1

Es gibt einen Gleiswechsel nach Gleis [Nummer].

Es gibt einen Gleiswechsel nach Gleis 7.

B2

Jemanden aufs Abstellgleis schieben.

Die Firma schob ihn aufs Abstellgleis.

C1

Das Projekt in die richtigen Gleise lenken.

Wir müssen die Verhandlungen in die richtigen Gleise lenken.

어휘 가족

명사

Gleisbau
Gleisbett
Gleisdreieck
Gleisanschluss
Gleisnetz
Gleiswechsel

동사

entgleisen (to derail)

형용사

gleislos (trackless)

관련

Schiene
Bahnhof
Zug
Bahnsteig
Weiche

사용법

frequency

Very high in daily life and travel.

자주 하는 실수
  • Der Gleis Das Gleis

    Gleis is a neuter noun, so it takes the article 'das'.

  • Ich stehe auf Gleis 4. Ich stehe am Gleis 4.

    Standing 'auf' the track means you are on the rails. People stand 'am' the track.

  • Gleisen (Nominative Plural) Gleise

    The plural is 'Gleise'. 'Gleisen' is only for the dative plural.

  • Welcher Gleis? Welches Gleis?

    Interrogative pronouns must match the neuter gender of Gleis.

  • Die Schiene 4 Gleis 4

    In a station, use 'Gleis' for the track number, not 'Schiene'.

Check the Board

Always check the 'Abfahrtstafel' for 'Gleis' changes, as they happen often in Germany.

Neuter Noun

Remember 'das Gleis'. Using 'der Gleis' is a very common beginner mistake.

Stay Back

When you hear 'Vorsicht am Gleis', step away from the edge immediately.

Compound Words

Learn words like 'Gleiswechsel' and 'Gleisbau' to understand station announcements better.

The 'EI' Sound

Pronounce 'Gleis' like 'ice' with a 'gl' at the start. Never like 'glees'.

Project Management

Use 'in die richtigen Gleise lenken' in meetings to impress your German colleagues.

DB Navigator

The DB app shows the 'Soll-Gleis' (scheduled) and 'Ist-Gleis' (actual) track.

Numbers

Mastering German numbers is essential for understanding which 'Gleis' you need.

Dative Plural

Remember the extra 'n': 'auf den Gleisen'.

Schiene vs Gleis

Use 'Schiene' for the physical rail and 'Gleis' for the track as a whole.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a train 'gliding' along the 'Gleis'. The 'gl' start is similar.

시각적 연상

Imagine the number '4' painted on the steel tracks (Gleis 4).

Word Web

Bahnhof Zug Schiene Reise Ticket Verspätung Ankunft Abfahrt

챌린지

Go to a train station and find five different 'Gleis' numbers. Say 'Ich stehe am Gleis X' for each one.

어원

From Middle High German 'geleis', meaning a track or rut left by a wheel. It is related to the verb 'gleiten' (to glide).

원래 의미: A rut or track in the ground.

Germanic

문화적 맥락

Be aware of 'Gleis 17' in Berlin, which is a memorial for Holocaust deportations. Use the word with respect in historical contexts.

In the UK/US, people say 'Platform'. In Germany, 'Gleis' is the standard, though 'Bahnsteig' is the physical structure.

Gleis 9 3/4 (Harry Potter - though in German it is Gleis 9 3/4) The song 'Sonderzug nach Pankow' Berlin Gleis 17 Memorial

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At the station

  • Wo ist Gleis 4?
  • Gleiswechsel nach Gleis 2.
  • Der Zug steht am Gleis.
  • Vorsicht am Gleis!

Travel planning

  • Welches Gleis steht auf dem Ticket?
  • Gibt es dort viele Gleise?
  • Die Gleisnummer hat sich geändert.
  • Abfahrt von Gleis 1.

Construction/News

  • Gleisbauarbeiten am Wochenende.
  • Personen im Gleis gemeldet.
  • Die Gleise sind gesperrt.
  • Neue Gleise verlegen.

Metaphorical/Business

  • Das Projekt ist auf dem richtigen Gleis.
  • Jemanden aufs Abstellgleis schieben.
  • Alles läuft in gewohnten Gleisen.
  • Wieder ins Gleis kommen.

Technical/Engineering

  • Die Gleisgeometrie prüfen.
  • Gleisanschluss für die Fabrik.
  • Das Gleisbett reinigen.
  • Marode Gleise ersetzen.

대화 시작하기

"Wissen Sie, von welchem Gleis der Zug nach München fährt?"

"Haben Sie die Durchsage über den Gleiswechsel gehört?"

"Warum stehen heute so viele Polizisten am Gleis?"

"Ist das Gleis 3 das richtige für die S-Bahn zum Flughafen?"

"Wie viele Gleise hat dieser riesige Bahnhof eigentlich?"

일기 주제

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du am Gleis auf jemanden gewartet hast.

Was denkst du, wenn du alte, verrostete Gleise siehst?

Hast du schon einmal einen Gleiswechsel in letzter Minute erlebt? Wie war das?

In welchen Bereichen deines Lebens bist du momentan 'auf dem richtigen Gleis'?

Stell dir vor, du arbeitest bei der Bahn. Was würdest du am Gleis verbessern?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Use 'auf dem Gleis' for the train and 'am Gleis' for people. 'Der Zug steht auf dem Gleis' vs 'Ich stehe am Gleis'.

A track change. It means your train is arriving at a different track than originally scheduled.

Usually yes, but it can also be used for trams (Straßenbahngleise) in some contexts.

It means to be sidelined or ignored, like an old train car parked on a side track.

The plural is 'die Gleise'.

It is neuter: das Gleis.

Ask: 'Auf welchem Gleis fährt der Zug nach [City]?'

This is a safety announcement meaning unauthorized people are on the tracks, causing delays.

A dead track that is no longer connected to the main network or used.

It's a linguistic convention. They focus on the track number rather than the platform structure.

셀프 테스트 200 질문

writing

Write a sentence asking where track 10 is.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence saying the train arrives on track 4.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe where you are waiting using 'am Gleis'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explain a track change in one sentence.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use the idiom 'aufs Abstellgleis schieben' in a sentence.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a warning for people at the station.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Mention track construction work and its effect.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write about a project being on the right track.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use the plural 'Gleise' to describe a station.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explain the difference between Gleis and Schiene.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a formal announcement for a track change.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a rusty old track.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Ask if this is the correct track for a specific train.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'Personen im Gleis' in a news-style sentence.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence with 'ins Gleis bringen'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a train standing at a track.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Ask a worker for the track number.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write about many tracks in the dative plural.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explain what a 'Gleisanschluss' is.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Use 'aus dem Gleis geraten' metaphorically.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Track 4' in German.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Ask: 'Where is track 7?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The train is on track 2.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I am waiting at track 5.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'There is a track change.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Ask: 'Which track is for Berlin?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Watch out at the track!'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The track is closed.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'We are on the right track.' (Metaphorical)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Step back from the track.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Ask: 'Does the train leave from track 1?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I need to find track 12.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The tracks are slippery.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The project is back on track.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'There are people on the track.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The siding is full.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'He was sidelined.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Ask: 'Is there an elevator at track 3?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Track construction work starts tomorrow.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The train enters track 1.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the track number: 'ICE 500 nach Köln, heute von Gleis elf.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the word: 'Bitte Vorsicht am ______.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Gleiswechsel für S-Bahn 1 nach Dortmund.' What happened?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the number: 'Ankunft auf Gleis siebenundzwanzig.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the word: 'Wegen ______ im Gleis hält der Zug.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the track: 'Abfahrt von Gleis zwei, Abschnitt B.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Gleis vier ist heute gesperrt.' Is track 4 open?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Wir sind wieder auf dem richtigen Gleis.' Is the project doing well?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Treten Sie bitte vom Gleis zurück.' What should you do?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Gleisbauarbeiten verzögern die Fahrt.' Why is the train late?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the track: 'Regionalbahn auf Gleis achtzehn.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Der Zug fährt heute von Gleis drei statt Gleis eins.' Original track?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'Aufs Abstellgleis geschoben.' Positive or negative?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the word: 'Die ______ sind aus Stahl.'

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 'An Gleis vier Einfahrt des RE eins.' Which train is arriving?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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