gurgeln
gurgeln 30초 만에
- A verb meaning to gargle with liquid in the throat for hygiene or medical reasons.
- Commonly used to describe the bubbling sound of water in pipes, drains, or small streams.
- An onomatopoeic word that sounds like the action it describes (gurgle/gargle).
- Requires the preposition 'mit' when specifying the liquid used (e.g., mit Salzwasser gurgeln).
The German verb gurgeln is a fascinating onomatopoeic word that describes the action of vibrating liquid in the back of the throat or the sound made by such an action. At its most literal level, it refers to the hygienic practice of taking a liquid, such as water, salt solution, or mouthwash, into the mouth, tilting the head back, and exhaling through the liquid to create a bubbling sound and motion. This is primarily done to cleanse the throat, soothe a sore throat, or maintain oral hygiene. However, the word extends beyond human biology. It is frequently used to describe the sound of water moving through pipes, the gentle bubbling of a brook, or the sound of a bottle being emptied. Understanding 'gurgeln' requires recognizing both its physiological application and its evocative acoustic quality.
- The Physical Act
- In a medical or hygienic context, 'gurgeln' is a transitive or intransitive verb. You can 'gurgeln' with a specific substance (mit Salzwasser gurgeln) or simply perform the act. It is a standard recommendation by German doctors (Hausärzte) when a patient complains of a 'Halsentzündung' (sore throat). The action helps to reach the posterior part of the oral cavity and the upper pharynx, areas that a simple rinse (spülen) might miss.
- The Acoustic Dimension
- Because the word mimics the sound it describes—the 'g-u-r-g' syllables reflecting the low-frequency bubbling—it is used poetically and descriptively. If a drain is clogged and water struggles to pass through, a German speaker would say 'Der Abfluss gurgelt.' Similarly, a small stream (ein Bach) might 'gurgle' as it flows over stones. This metaphorical use is very common in literature and everyday descriptions of nature or household issues.
Wenn du Halsschmerzen hast, solltest du dreimal täglich mit Salzwasser gurgeln.
The verb is regular in its conjugation (gurgelte, gegurgelt), making it accessible for B1 learners. It does not require a direct object in the accusative sense of 'what' you are gargling in terms of the throat, but rather 'with what' (mit + dative). You don't 'gurgle the water'; you 'gurgle with the water'. This subtle grammatical distinction is important for sounding natural. In the workplace or professional settings, you might hear it used figuratively to describe the sound of a coffee machine or a cooling system. It is a word that bridges the gap between the intimate routine of the bathroom and the wider world of mechanical and natural sounds. Whether you are at the pharmacy (Apotheke) buying 'Gurgellösung' or hiking by a 'gurgelnder Bach', the word remains consistently tied to that specific, bubbling acoustic signature.
Hörst du, wie das Wasser in den alten Heizungsrohren gurgelt?
- Register and Usage
- The word is neutral. It is neither overly formal nor slang. However, because it describes a bodily function that can be loud or messy, it is usually discussed in private or medical contexts. You wouldn't typically gurgle in a public restroom unless you were alone, as the sound is considered quite personal. In technical contexts, it is the standard term for air trapped in liquid systems making noise.
Das Baby gurgelt vor Vergnügen, wenn es im Badewasser spielt.
In summary, 'gurgeln' is a versatile verb that every B1 learner should master. It is essential for health-related conversations, describing household maintenance issues, and adding descriptive depth to narratives. Its onomatopoeic nature makes it easy to remember, but its precise grammatical usage with 'mit' and its various metaphorical applications in nature and technology provide the depth required for intermediate and advanced German proficiency. When you think of 'gurgeln', think of the sound of air meeting water in a confined space—whether that space is your throat, a pipe, or a stony creek bed.
Using 'gurgeln' correctly involves understanding its role as both a physical action and a descriptive sound verb. In German, sentence structure around 'gurgeln' is relatively straightforward because it is a weak verb, but the prepositions and contexts change its flavor. We will explore how to construct sentences for health, nature, and mechanical scenarios, ensuring you can use the word with confidence in any situation.
- Health and Hygiene Contexts
- When using 'gurgeln' for health, the most common structure is 'mit [Dativ] gurgeln'. For example: 'Ich gurgle mit Kamillentee.' (I am gargling with chamomile tea). If you want to specify the duration, you might say: 'Gurgeln Sie für dreißig Sekunden.' (Gargle for thirty seconds). In these sentences, the focus is on the intentionality of the actor. You are performing a task for a specific outcome, usually 'gegen Halsschmerzen' (against sore throats).
Der Arzt empfahl mir, morgens und abends mit einer antiseptischen Lösung zu gurgeln.
When the subject is not a person but an object or a natural element, 'gurgeln' describes the sound produced. This is an intransitive use where no preposition is strictly necessary, though you might add local prepositions to describe 'where' the gurgling is happening. For instance, 'Das Wasser gurgelt im Abfluss' (The water gurgles in the drain). Here, the water is the subject performing the action of making the sound. This is common in descriptive writing and when reporting household problems to a 'Klempner' (plumber).
- Metaphorical and Literary Use
- In literature, 'gurgeln' can describe laughter or the way a baby speaks. 'Das Kind gurgelte vor Lachen' (The child gurgled with laughter). This creates a vivid image of a deep, bubbling sound coming from the throat. It can also describe the sound of blood or other liquids in more graphic or medical descriptions. In these cases, the verb adds a sensory, almost visceral layer to the sentence that a more generic word like 'klingen' (to sound) or 'lachen' (to laugh) would lack.
Tief im Wald gurgelte ein kleiner Bach zwischen den bemoosten Steinen.
Another important aspect is the use of 'gurgeln' in the imperative form. When giving advice, you will often use 'Gurgle!' (singular informal), 'Gurgelt!' (plural informal), or 'Gurgeln Sie!' (formal). Because it is a health-related action, the formal imperative is very common in medical instructions or on the labels of mouthwash bottles. For example, 'Nach dem Zähneputzen bitte gründlich gurgeln.' (Please gargle thoroughly after brushing your teeth). This instruction is ubiquitous in German bathrooms and dental clinics.
Es ist wichtig, die Lösung nicht zu schlucken, sondern nur damit zu gurgeln.
- Common Combinations
- You will often see 'gurgeln' paired with adverbs like 'kräftig' (vigorously), 'leise' (quietly), or 'langsam' (slowly). These adverbs modify the intensity of the sound or the action. 'Er gurgelte kräftig' implies a loud, energetic gargle, perhaps to clear a stubborn blockage in the throat. 'Das Wasser gurgelte leise' suggests a peaceful, barely audible sound of a stream or a distant pipe.
Finally, consider the reflexive-like use in certain dialects or informal speech, although technically incorrect in standard German. Some might say 'Ich gurgle mir den Hals' (I gargle my throat), but the standard 'Ich gurgle' or 'Ich gurgle mit...' is much more common and grammatically sound. By focusing on the 'mit + Dativ' structure for hygiene and the simple 'Subjekt + gurgelt' for sounds, you will cover 95% of all use cases for this verb in German-speaking environments.
The word 'gurgeln' is not one you will hear in every conversation, but in specific environments, it is indispensable. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word when it's spoken and use it appropriately. From the sterile environment of a 'Zahnarztpraxis' (dentist's office) to the cozy atmosphere of a 'Teestube' (tea house), 'gurgeln' finds its place in the German linguistic landscape.
- In the Pharmacy and Doctor's Office
- The most frequent place to encounter 'gurgeln' is in medical consultations. A German doctor will often ask, 'Haben Sie schon mit Salzwasser gegurgelt?' (Have you already gargled with salt water?). In the 'Apotheke' (pharmacy), you will see 'Gurgellösungen' (gargling solutions) on the shelves. The pharmacist might explain the application: 'Sie müssen diese Lösung verdünnen, bevor Sie damit gurgeln.' (You must dilute this solution before gargling with it). It is a key term in the vocabulary of German 'Hausmedizin' (home medicine).
In der Apotheke kaufte sie eine spezielle Tinktur zum gurgeln.
Another common location is the bathroom at home. Parents often instruct their children: 'Vergiss nicht zu gurgeln!' (Don't forget to gargle!). It's part of the morning and evening routine, especially during the cold 'Grippesaison' (flu season) in Germany. You might also hear it in commercials for mouthwash (Mundspülung), where the visual of someone gargling is often accompanied by the word to emphasize deep cleaning and freshness.
- Household Maintenance and Plumbing
- If you live in an apartment in Germany, especially in an 'Altbau' (old building), you will eventually hear your pipes 'gurgeln'. When you call the 'Hausmeister' (caretaker) or a 'Klempner' (plumber), you might say: 'Die Rohre im Bad gurgeln ständig, wenn der Nachbar duscht.' (The pipes in the bathroom always gurgle when the neighbor showers). This is a precise technical description of air being trapped in the plumbing system, and using 'gurgeln' helps the professional diagnose the problem immediately.
Der Klempner sagte, dass das gurgeln in der Leitung auf eine Verstopfung hindeutet.
Literature and storytelling also utilize 'gurgeln' to create atmosphere. In a mystery novel, a character might hear a 'gurgelndes Geräusch' (gurgling sound) from behind a door, adding tension. In children's books, a friendly monster or a bubbling potion might 'gurgle'. This versatility across different genres of media—from technical manuals to fairy tales—shows how deeply the word is embedded in the sensory experience of the German language. You'll hear it in the kitchen when the coffee machine finishes its cycle, or in the garden when the hose has air bubbles. Wherever liquid meets air in a narrow space, 'gurgeln' is the word Germans reach for.
Die Kaffeemaschine gurgelt immer so laut, wenn der Wassertank fast leer ist.
- Summary of Contexts
- 1. Medical advice for throat pain. 2. Instructions for oral hygiene products. 3. Reporting plumbing issues. 4. Descriptive writing about nature. 5. Describing sounds of household appliances. Recognizing the sound-based nature of the word will help you identify it even in noisy or fast-paced conversations.
While 'gurgeln' is a relatively simple verb, learners often stumble over its prepositional usage, its distinction from similar verbs, and its pronunciation. Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your German sound more natural and precise. Let's break down the most frequent errors and how to correct them.
- Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Preposition
- Many English speakers try to translate 'gargle with' literally and occasionally use 'bei' or 'durch'. In German, the only correct preposition for the substance you are using is 'mit' followed by the dative case. Incorrect: 'Ich gurgle bei Wasser.' Correct: 'Ich gurgle mit Wasser.' Another error is trying to make the liquid the direct object without 'mit', such as 'Ich gurgle das Wasser.' While understandable, it sounds slightly off; 'mit dem Wasser gurgeln' is the preferred idiomatic construction.
Falsch: Ich gurgle den Tee. Richtig: Ich gurgle mit dem Tee.
A very common mistake is confusing 'gurgeln' with 'spülen' (to rinse) or 'schlucken' (to swallow). 'Spülen' refers to moving liquid around the mouth (swishing), while 'gurgeln' specifically involves the throat and the head-back position. 'Schlucken' is what you must *not* do while gargling, especially with medicine. Mixing these up in a medical context can lead to confusion or even minor health issues if you swallow something intended only for gargling.
- Mistake 2: Pronunciation and Spelling
- The 'u' in 'gurgeln' is a short, closed sound, similar to the 'oo' in 'book' but more rounded. Some learners pronounce it like the English 'u' in 'cup', which is incorrect. Furthermore, the final '-eln' can be tricky. It's not 'gurg-ellen', but a very quick 'gurg-ln'. If you over-pronounce the 'e', it sounds unnatural. Spelling-wise, don't forget the second 'g'. It's not 'gureln'. The double 'g' structure is essential for its onomatopoeic effect.
Achten Sie auf die Endung: Es heißt 'ich gurgle', nicht 'ich gurgeln'.
Finally, learners sometimes use 'gurgeln' for sounds that are more like 'plätschern' (splashing) or 'rauschen' (rushing). While 'gurgeln' is a water sound, it specifically implies air bubbles. A massive waterfall doesn't 'gurgle'; it 'rauscht'. A tiny leak in a pipe 'gurgelt'. Using 'gurgeln' for a large body of water sounds comical, as if the ocean is trying to soothe a sore throat. Keep 'gurgeln' for small-scale, bubbly, or throat-related contexts.
- Mistake 3: Confusing with 'Gurgel' (Noun)
- The noun 'die Gurgel' refers to the throat/gullet. While related, they are used differently. You can say 'etwas in die falsche Gurgel bekommen' (to have something go down the wrong pipe/throat), which is an idiom for choking or being offended. Don't use the verb 'gurgeln' when you mean the noun 'Gurgel'. For example, 'Meine Gurgel tut weh' is correct, but 'Mein Gurgeln tut weh' would mean 'My act of gargling hurts', which is different.
By keeping these distinctions in mind—'mit' for prepositions, 'spülen' vs. 'gurgeln' for the action, and the specific 'bubbly' nature of the sound—you will avoid the most common traps that English speakers fall into when learning this expressive German verb.
In German, as in English, there are several words that describe oral hygiene or water sounds. Knowing the nuances between 'gurgeln' and its synonyms will help you choose the right word for the right situation. Whether you are at the doctor, describing a landscape, or fixing a sink, precision matters. Let's compare 'gurgeln' with its closest linguistic relatives.
- Spülen vs. Gurgeln
- 'Spülen' (to rinse) is the most common alternative. While 'gurgeln' is restricted to the throat, 'spülen' is broader. You can 'den Mund spülen' (rinse the mouth), 'das Geschirr spülen' (wash the dishes), or 'die Toilette spülen' (flush the toilet). If you are using mouthwash to clean your teeth, use 'spülen'. If you are using it for a sore throat, use 'gurgeln'. 'Ausspülen' is often used for the final act of rinsing out the mouth with water after brushing.
Zuerst gurgeln Sie mit der Medizin, dann spülen Sie den Mund mit Wasser aus.
When it comes to sounds, 'gurgeln' competes with 'plätschern' and 'gluckern'. 'Plätschern' (to splash/patter) describes the sound of light rain or a small fountain—it's more about water hitting a surface. 'Gluckern' is almost identical to 'gurgeln' and often used interchangeably for liquids in containers or pipes. However, 'gluckern' often implies a deeper, slower sound (like a large bottle being emptied), whereas 'gurgeln' is more continuous and higher-pitched. 'Rauschen' is for much larger volumes of water, like a river or the sea.
- Linguistic Comparisons
-
Word Action/Sound Best For... Gurgeln Throat bubbling Sore throats, pipes Spülen Rinsing/Swishing Mouth, dishes, toilet Gluckern Gulping sound Bottles, heavy pipes Plätschern Splashing Fountains, rain
Das Gluckern der Weinflasche klang in der Stille sehr laut.
In a more formal or medical context, you might hear 'den Rachen reinigen' (to clean the pharynx/throat), but this is very clinical. 'Gurgeln' remains the standard term even in professional medical advice. For mechanical sounds, 'brodeln' (to bubble/seethe) can be an alternative if the liquid is hot or boiling, but 'gurgeln' specifically captures the air-liquid mix. If you want to describe a person's voice that sounds like they have liquid in their throat (perhaps due to illness), you could use the adjective 'gurgelig', though this is less common than 'heiser' (hoarse).
Understanding these alternatives allows you to paint a clearer picture. If you tell a plumber the sink is 'plätschernd', they might look for a leak. If you say it is 'gurgelnd', they will look for a blockage. If you tell a doctor you 'spülen' your throat, they might correct you to 'gurgeln' to ensure the medicine reaches the right spot. Mastery of these subtle differences is a hallmark of a B2/C1 level speaker, even though the word 'gurgeln' itself is introduced at B1.
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The word is so effective at mimicking sound that almost every European language has a similar-sounding word (e.g., French 'gargouiller', Italian 'gorgogliare').
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing the 'u' like the 'u' in 'cup'.
- Over-emphasizing the 'e' in '-eln'.
- Forgetting to pronounce the second 'g'.
- Using an English 'r' sound.
- Making the 'u' too long like in 'moon'.
난이도
Easy to recognize due to English similarity.
The '-eln' ending can be tricky for some learners.
The combination of 'g', 'u', and 'r' requires good breath control.
The sound of the word is very distinct.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Verbs ending in -eln
Ich gurgle (the 'e' before 'l' is often dropped in the first person singular).
Preposition 'mit' + Dative
Ich gurgle mit dem (dative) Wasser.
Nominalization of Verbs
Das Gurgeln (the act of gargling) ist gesund.
Present Participle as Adjective
Der gurgelnde (gurgling) Bach.
Imperative Mood
Gurgle! / Gurgeln Sie!
수준별 예문
Ich gurgle mit Wasser.
I gargle with water.
Simple present tense.
Gurgelst du?
Are you gargling?
Question form.
Er gurgelt nicht.
He is not gargling.
Negation with 'nicht'.
Wir gurgeln am Morgen.
We gargle in the morning.
Time phrase 'am Morgen'.
Gurgle jetzt!
Gargle now!
Imperative singular.
Das Wasser gurgelt.
The water gurgles.
Subject-verb agreement.
Ich muss gurgeln.
I must gargle.
Modal verb 'müssen'.
Sie gurgelt mit Salz.
She gargles with salt.
Preposition 'mit'.
Ich habe heute mit Tee gegurgelt.
I gargled with tea today.
Perfect tense (Perfekt).
Du solltest öfter gurgeln.
You should gargle more often.
Modal verb 'sollten' (subjunctive II).
Warum gurgelt das Baby?
Why is the baby gurgling?
Interrogative 'warum'.
Gurgeln Sie bitte gründlich.
Please gargle thoroughly.
Formal imperative with adverb.
Ich gurgle, weil mein Hals weh tut.
I gargle because my throat hurts.
Subordinate clause with 'weil'.
Das Wasser gurgelte im Rohr.
The water gurgled in the pipe.
Simple past (Präteritum).
Kannst du mit Salzwasser gurgeln?
Can you gargle with salt water?
Modal verb 'können'.
Er gurgelt jeden Abend vor dem Schlafen.
He gargles every evening before sleeping.
Frequency expression.
Wenn der Abfluss gurgelt, ist er meistens verstopft.
When the drain gurgles, it is usually clogged.
Conditional sentence.
Der Arzt hat mir empfohlen, dreimal täglich zu gurgeln.
The doctor recommended that I gargle three times a day.
Infinitive with 'zu'.
Ich habe die Gurgellösung in der Apotheke gekauft.
I bought the gargling solution at the pharmacy.
Compound noun 'Gurgellösung'.
Es ist wichtig, die Flüssigkeit beim Gurgeln nicht zu schlucken.
It is important not to swallow the liquid while gargling.
Gerund-like use of 'beim Gurgeln'.
Das kleine Bächlein gurgelte leise im Wald.
The little brook gurgled quietly in the forest.
Diminutive 'Bächlein' and descriptive adverb.
Nach der Operation durfte er nur vorsichtig gurgeln.
After the operation, he was only allowed to gargle carefully.
Modal verb in past tense.
Hörst du das Gurgeln der Heizung?
Do you hear the gurgling of the heater?
Nominalized verb 'das Gurgeln'.
Man kann auch mit Kamillentee gurgeln, um die Entzündung zu heilen.
One can also gargle with chamomile tea to heal the inflammation.
Final clause with 'um...zu'.
Das gurgelnde Geräusch der Rohre hielt mich die ganze Nacht wach.
The gurgling sound of the pipes kept me awake all night.
Present participle as an adjective.
Anstatt die Medizin zu schlucken, sollte er nur damit gurgeln.
Instead of swallowing the medicine, he should only gargle with it.
Conjunction 'anstatt...zu'.
Die Kaffeemaschine gurgelt, wenn das Wasser fast verbraucht ist.
The coffee machine gurgles when the water is almost used up.
Temporal clause with 'wenn'.
Er gurgelte so laut, dass man es im Nebenzimmer hören konnte.
He gargled so loudly that one could hear it in the next room.
Consecutive clause with 'so...dass'.
In der Ferne gurgelte ein kleiner Wasserfall über die Felsen.
In the distance, a small waterfall gurgled over the rocks.
Prepositional phrase of place.
Trotz der Schmerzen versuchte sie, regelmäßig zu gurgeln.
Despite the pain, she tried to gargle regularly.
Preposition 'trotz' with genitive.
Das Baby gurgelte zufrieden, nachdem es gefüttert worden war.
The baby gurgled contentedly after it had been fed.
Passive voice in past perfect.
Ohne zu gurgeln, wird die Entzündung im Hals kaum besser werden.
Without gargling, the inflammation in the throat will hardly get better.
Preposition 'ohne...zu'.
Das Gurgeln des Weins beim Einschenken deutete auf eine hohe Viskosität hin.
The gurgling of the wine during pouring indicated a high viscosity.
Nominalized verb with genitive.
Die literarische Beschreibung des gurgelnden Baches erzeugte eine idyllische Atmosphäre.
The literary description of the gurgling brook created an idyllic atmosphere.
Complex noun phrases.
Bevor der Klempner kam, hatte das System stundenlang ununterbrochen gegurgelt.
Before the plumber arrived, the system had gurgled continuously for hours.
Past perfect tense (Plusquamperfekt).
Es ist eine weit verbreitete Sitte, morgens mit Öl zu gurgeln, das sogenannte Ölziehen.
It is a widespread custom to gargle with oil in the morning, so-called oil pulling.
Apposition 'das sogenannte Ölziehen'.
Die gurgelnden Laute des Patienten bereiteten dem Pflegepersonal Sorgen.
The patient's gurgling sounds worried the nursing staff.
Adjectival use of present participle.
Man konnte das Wasser in den Wänden gurgeln hören, was auf einen Rohrbruch schließen ließ.
One could hear the water gurgling in the walls, which suggested a burst pipe.
Accusative with infinitive (A.C.I.) construction.
Durch das Gurgeln mit Salbeitee lassen sich viele Halsbeschwerden ohne Chemie lindern.
By gargling with sage tea, many throat complaints can be alleviated without chemicals.
Passive-like construction with 'lassen sich'.
Das Gurgeln der Kanalisation war nach dem heftigen Gewitter überall in der Stadt zu vernehmen.
The gurgling of the sewers was audible everywhere in the city after the heavy thunderstorm.
Modal infinitive 'zu vernehmen'.
Die Lautmalerei des Verbs 'gurgeln' spiegelt die akustische Realität des Vorgangs perfekt wider.
The onomatopoeia of the verb 'gurgeln' perfectly reflects the acoustic reality of the process.
Abstract linguistic terminology.
In seinem Gedicht lässt der Autor die Bäche nicht fließen, sondern sie gurgeln und raunen.
In his poem, the author does not let the brooks flow, but rather they gurgle and whisper.
Contrastive sentence structure.
Die technische Analyse ergab, dass das Gurgeln durch Kavitation in der Pumpe verursacht wurde.
The technical analysis showed that the gurgling was caused by cavitation in the pump.
Scientific vocabulary ('Kavitation').
Es bedarf einer gewissen Übung, um so zu gurgeln, dass die Flüssigkeit den gesamten Rachenraum benetzt.
It requires a certain amount of practice to gargle in such a way that the liquid wets the entire pharynx.
Formal construction 'Es bedarf'.
Das Gurgeln der Gezeiten in den Küstenhöhlen erzeugte ein unheimliches Echo.
The gurgling of the tides in the coastal caves created an eerie echo.
Evocative literary style.
Obgleich das Gurgeln oft als harmlos gilt, kann es in diesem Kontext auf ein ernsthaftes Problem hindeuten.
Although gurgling is often considered harmless, in this context it can point to a serious problem.
Concessive clause with 'obgleich'.
Die phonetische Ähnlichkeit zwischen dem deutschen 'gurgeln' und dem französischen 'gargouiller' ist evident.
The phonetic similarity between the German 'gurgeln' and the French 'gargouiller' is evident.
Comparative linguistics.
Das stete Gurgeln des Brunnens auf dem Marktplatz bildete die Geräuschkulisse seiner Kindheit.
The constant gurgling of the fountain in the marketplace formed the soundscape of his childhood.
Metaphorical 'Geräuschkulisse'.
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— Standard medical instruction for frequency.
Gurgeln Sie dreimal täglich nach den Mahlzeiten.
— Safety warning for medicinal solutions.
Vorsicht! Nicht schlucken, nur gurgeln!
— Indication of air or blockage in plumbing.
Hör mal, die Rohre gurgeln schon wieder.
— Describing a specific type of sound.
Ich hörte ein gurgelndes Geräusch aus dem Keller.
— Label on products safe for gargling.
Dieser Tee ist auch zum Gurgeln geeignet.
— General health advice.
Jeder weiß: Gurgeln hilft bei Halsschmerzen.
— Instruction on how to finish the process.
Die Lösung nach dem Gurgeln bitte sofort ausspucken.
— To stop the action or sound.
Wir müssen das Gurgeln in der Leitung einstellen.
자주 혼동되는 단어
To search on Google. Sounds similar but has a long 'oo' and different meaning.
Gluckern is more for air escaping a bottle; gurgeln is more for the throat or pipes.
Gurgel is the noun (throat); gurgeln is the verb (to gargle).
관용어 및 표현
— To attack someone physically or verbally (uses the noun).
Er wollte seinem Chef an die Gurgel gehen.
informal— To be under extreme pressure or in a desperate situation.
Die Firma hat das Messer an der Gurgel.
idiomatic— To choke on something or take a joke the wrong way.
Das hast du wohl in die falsche Gurgel bekommen.
informal— To have a drink (often alcoholic).
Lass uns erst mal die Gurgel anfeuchten.
slang— To be completely full of food or drink.
Ich bin bis zur Gurgel voll mit Pizza.
informal— To be so shocked that one cannot speak.
Ihm blieb das Wort in der Gurgel stecken.
literary— To cut someone's throat (literal and violent).
In dem Film wurde ihm die Gurgel durchschnitten.
neutral— To gargle very intensely or frequently.
Er gurgelt bei jedem kleinen Kratzen wie ein Weltmeister.
informal혼동하기 쉬운
Both involve liquid in the mouth.
Spülen is for the whole mouth/teeth; gurgeln is specifically for the throat.
Ich spüle den Mund, aber ich gurgle den Hals.
Both involve liquid in the throat.
Schlucken means the liquid goes down to the stomach; gurgeln means it stays in the throat and vibrates.
Bitte nicht schlucken, nur gurgeln!
Both are water sounds.
Rauschen is a constant, white-noise sound of large water; gurgeln is a bubbly, irregular sound.
Das Meer rauscht, der Abfluss gurgelt.
Both involve bubbles.
Brodeln is for boiling or intense heat; gurgeln is for air and liquid movement.
Die Suppe brodelt, der Bach gurgelt.
Both are low, continuous sounds.
Murmeln is for quiet speaking; gurgeln is for liquid sounds.
Er murmelt leise, während das Wasser gurgelt.
문장 패턴
Ich gurgle mit [Substanz].
Ich gurgle mit Wasser.
Ich habe mit [Substanz] gegurgelt.
Ich habe mit Tee gegurgelt.
Wenn [Subjekt] gurgelt, dann...
Wenn der Abfluss gurgelt, dann ist er verstopft.
Es ist gut, zu gurgeln.
Es ist gut, zweimal täglich zu gurgeln.
Ein [Adjektiv] gurgelndes [Nomen].
Ein leise gurgelndes Wasser.
Das Gurgeln von [Nomen im Genitiv].
Das Gurgeln des Baches beruhigt mich.
Ohne zu gurgeln, [Hauptsatz].
Ohne zu gurgeln, wird der Hals nicht gesund.
Obgleich [Subjekt] gurgelt, [Hauptsatz].
Obgleich die Heizung gurgelt, wird es warm.
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
Common in medical and household contexts; rare in general social talk unless someone is sick.
-
Ich gurgle Wasser.
→
Ich gurgle mit Wasser.
In German, you need the preposition 'mit' to specify the liquid used.
-
Ich googele mit Salzwasser.
→
Ich gurgle mit Salzwasser.
Don't confuse 'googeln' (to search Google) with 'gurgeln' (to gargle).
-
Der Abfluss spült.
→
Der Abfluss gurgelt.
If the drain is making a bubbling sound, 'gurgeln' is the specific word; 'spülen' is the act of water flowing through.
-
Ich habe gegurgelt den Tee.
→
Ich habe mit dem Tee gegurgelt.
Correct word order and preposition usage are necessary in the perfect tense.
-
Mein Gurgeln ist trocken.
→
Meine Gurgel ist trocken.
Use the noun 'Gurgel' for the throat, not the nominalized verb 'Gurgeln' unless you mean the act itself.
팁
Sore Throat Relief
Gargling with warm salt water is a scientifically backed way to reduce swelling and kill bacteria in the throat. In Germany, this is often the first advice given for minor throat issues.
Dative after 'mit'
Always remember that 'mit' triggers the dative case. So it's 'mit dem Wasser' (masculine/neuter) or 'mit der Lösung' (feminine).
Sound Words
German has many onomatopoeic words like gurgeln, gluckern, and plätschern. Learning them together helps you build a 'sound vocabulary' for better descriptions.
Apartment Living
If your German landlord asks about 'Geräusche' (noises), 'gurgeln' is a key word to describe plumbing issues in old buildings.
The '-eln' trick
To sound more native, treat '-eln' as a single unit where the 'e' is almost invisible. Focus on the transition from 'l' to 'n'.
Medicine Safety
When you see 'Zum Gurgeln' on a German medicine bottle, it usually means it is highly concentrated and should not be swallowed.
Descriptive Writing
Use 'gurgelnd' as an adjective to make your descriptions of nature more poetic and sensory.
Daily Routine
Incorporate 'gurgeln' into your morning routine vocabulary along with 'Zähne putzen' and 'Gesicht waschen'.
Latin Roots
Knowing it's related to the Latin 'gurgulio' can help you connect it to English words like 'gurgle' and 'gargoyle'.
Baby Talk
Use 'gurgeln' to describe the cute sounds babies make before they start speaking; it's a very common term for this.
암기하기
기억법
Think of the 'G-U-R' sound as the sound a drain makes. GUR-GUR-GURGLE. It's the same in German: GUR-GELN.
시각적 연상
Imagine a person with their head tilted back, water bubbling in their throat, and the word 'GURGELN' floating in the bubbles.
Word Web
챌린지
Try to say 'Gurgelnde Gurgeln gurgeln Gurgelwasser' five times fast. It's a great way to practice the 'g' and 'l' sounds.
어원
Derived from Middle High German 'gurgeln', which comes from the Old High German 'gurgulōn'. It is an onomatopoeic formation, meaning the word was created to sound like the action of gargling.
원래 의미: To make a sound in the throat with liquid.
Germanic, with roots shared by Latin 'gurgulio' (windpipe/throat).문화적 맥락
As it involves a bodily function and a specific sound, it's best to avoid doing it loudly in public spaces.
The word 'gargle' is its direct equivalent, but Germans use 'gurgeln' more frequently for environmental sounds than English speakers use 'gargle'.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
At the Doctor
- Soll ich gurgeln?
- Wie oft am Tag muss ich gurgeln?
- Womit soll ich gurgeln?
- Hilft Gurgeln wirklich?
Household Problems
- Der Abfluss gurgelt.
- Die Heizung gurgelt.
- Warum gurgeln die Rohre?
- Das Gurgeln hört nicht auf.
Oral Hygiene
- Nach dem Putzen gurgeln.
- Mundwasser zum Gurgeln.
- Gründlich gurgeln.
- Nicht runterschlucken!
Nature Walks
- Ein gurgelnder Bach.
- Das Wasser gurgelt über Steine.
- Hörst du das Gurgeln?
- Ein friedliches Gurgeln.
Childcare
- Das Baby gurgelt.
- Mach mal 'gurgel gurgel'.
- Kannst du schon gurgeln?
- Vorsichtig gurgeln, Schatz.
대화 시작하기
"Hast du schon mal mit Salzwasser gegurgelt, wenn du Halsschmerzen hattest?"
"Gurgelt der Abfluss in deiner Wohnung auch manchmal so komisch?"
"Welche Gurgellösung findest du am besten aus der Apotheke?"
"Hörst du auch gerne das Gurgeln eines kleinen Baches im Wald?"
"Glaubst du, dass Gurgeln gegen Viren helfen kann?"
일기 주제
Beschreibe das Geräusch eines gurgelnden Baches in der Natur. Wie fühlst du dich dabei?
Schreibe über eine Situation, in der du krank warst und gurgeln musstest. Hat es geholfen?
Stell dir vor, dein Waschbecken fängt plötzlich an zu sprechen, aber es kann nur gurgeln. Was will es dir sagen?
Warum ist Gurgeln ein so wichtiger Teil der deutschen Hausmedizin?
Diskutiere die Vor- und Nachteile von chemischen Gurgellösungen gegenüber natürlichen Mitteln wie Tee.
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문No, for brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth, you should use 'spülen' or 'ausspülen'. 'Gurgeln' is only for the throat action.
Yes, it is a weak (regular) verb. The forms are: gurgeln, gurgelte, hat gegurgelt.
They are very similar. 'Gurgeln' is more common for the throat and pipes, while 'gluckern' is often used for the sound of a liquid being poured out of a bottle.
If you want to mention the liquid you are using (like water or tea), yes, you must use 'mit' followed by the dative case.
Both are correct, but 'ich gurgle' is much more common in modern spoken and written German.
Yes, 'vor Lachen gurgeln' is a descriptive way to say someone is laughing with a deep, bubbling sound.
'Die Gurgel' is the noun form, meaning the throat or the gullet.
Yes, it's the standard term for air trapped in hydraulic or heating systems making noise.
In German, it is 'mit Salzwasser gurgeln'.
No, it is a vocalic 'r' or a light uvular fricative, depending on the speaker's dialect, but it should be audible.
셀프 테스트 180 질문
Schreibe einen Satz mit 'gurgeln' im Präsens.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Was sagt der Arzt, wenn du Halsschmerzen hast? (Benutze 'gurgeln')
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Beschreibe das Geräusch eines alten Abflusses.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Schreibe einen Satz im Perfekt mit 'gurgeln'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Benutze das Adjektiv 'gurgelnd' in einem Satz über einen Wald.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Erkläre den Unterschied zwischen gurgeln und schlucken.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Schreibe eine Anweisung für eine Mundspülung.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Was macht eine Kaffeemaschine am Ende? (Benutze 'gurgeln')
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Schreibe einen Satz mit 'die Gurgel'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Bilde einen Satz mit 'um...zu' und 'gurgeln'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Schreibe einen Satz über ein Baby und 'gurgeln'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Was passiert, wenn Luft in der Heizung ist?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Schreibe einen Satz im Präteritum.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Benutze 'trotz' und 'gurgeln' in einem Satz.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Schreibe einen Satz über eine Gurgellösung.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Was ist das Geräusch von Wein, der eingegossen wird?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Schreibe einen Satz mit 'ohne...zu'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Bilde einen Satz mit 'während'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Was ist 'Ölziehen'? (Benutze 'gurgeln')
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Schreibe einen kreativen Satz über einen gurgelnden Fluss.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sage auf Deutsch: 'I gargle with salt water.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Frage jemanden: 'Have you gargled yet?'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'The drain is gurgling.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'Please gargle thoroughly.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Beschreibe einen Bach mit dem Wort 'gurgeln'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'I shouldn't swallow the liquid.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'The heater is gurgling again.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'Gargling helps with sore throats.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'I gargled three times today.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'The baby is gurgling happily.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'Don't forget to gargle!'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'Can you hear the water gurgling?'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'I prefer to gargle with sage tea.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'The pipes are gurgling in the wall.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'After gargling, spit it out.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'It's a gurgling sound.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'The coffee machine is gurgling.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'He gargles like a professional.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'I have to gargle now.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Sage: 'Is it okay to gargle with this?'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Hörst du 'gurgeln' oder 'googeln'?
Welches Wort hörst du: 'spülen' oder 'gurgeln'?
Ist das Geräusch im Audio ein Gurgeln?
Hörst du 'gurgelt' oder 'gurgelte'?
Hörst du 'Gurgel' oder 'Gurgeln'?
Wie viele Silben hat das Wort?
Betont der Sprecher die erste oder zweite Silbe?
Hörst du 'mit Salzwasser' oder 'mit Salbeitee'?
Hörst du 'nicht schlucken'?
Hörst du 'Abfluss' oder 'Anschluss'?
Ist der Ton laut oder leise?
Hörst du eine Frage oder einen Satz?
Hörst du 'gegurgelt'?
Hörst du 'Heizung'?
Hörst du 'gründlich'?
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The verb 'gurgeln' is essential for health discussions and household descriptions. Example: 'Wenn du Halsschmerzen hast, gurgle mit warmem Salzwasser.' It bridges the gap between a physical action and a descriptive sound.
- A verb meaning to gargle with liquid in the throat for hygiene or medical reasons.
- Commonly used to describe the bubbling sound of water in pipes, drains, or small streams.
- An onomatopoeic word that sounds like the action it describes (gurgle/gargle).
- Requires the preposition 'mit' when specifying the liquid used (e.g., mit Salzwasser gurgeln).
Sore Throat Relief
Gargling with warm salt water is a scientifically backed way to reduce swelling and kill bacteria in the throat. In Germany, this is often the first advice given for minor throat issues.
Dative after 'mit'
Always remember that 'mit' triggers the dative case. So it's 'mit dem Wasser' (masculine/neuter) or 'mit der Lösung' (feminine).
Sound Words
German has many onomatopoeic words like gurgeln, gluckern, and plätschern. Learning them together helps you build a 'sound vocabulary' for better descriptions.
Apartment Living
If your German landlord asks about 'Geräusche' (noises), 'gurgeln' is a key word to describe plumbing issues in old buildings.
관련 콘텐츠
health 관련 단어
abhängig
B1의존적인, ~에 좌우되는; 지원을 위해 누군가나 무언가를 필요로 함.
abnehmen
A2살을 빼다 또는 감소하다.
Abstand
B1두 물체나 사람 사이의 거리 또는 간격. 교통 안전 거리나 개인적 공간을 의미할 때 주로 사용됩니다.
achten auf
A2무엇이나 누구에게 주의를 기울이다.
achtsamer
B1더 집중하고 주의 깊게, 그리고 의식적으로 무언가를 하는 것을 의미해.
Akupunktur
B2침술은 통증을 완화하거나 다양한 질병을 치료하기 위해 신체의 특정 지점에 가느다란 바늘을 삽입하는 전통 중국 의학의 한 방법입니다.
akut
B1acute
alkoholfrei
A2'alkoholfrei'라는 단어는 무알코올을 의미합니다. 주로 맥주나 와인 같은 음료에 사용됩니다.
Allergie
A1알레르기는 특정 물질에 대한 면역 체계의 과민 반응입니다. 재채기, 가려움증, 발진 등의 증상이 나타날 수 있습니다.
Allergiker
B1알레르기 환자는 특정 물질에 부정적으로 반응하는 의학적 상태를 가진 사람입니다.