Kontrolle 30초 만에
- Means 'inspection' or 'check'.
- False friend: not for operating machines.
- Used heavily in travel (Passkontrolle).
- Idiom: 'unter Kontrolle' (under control).
The German word Kontrolle is one of the most important nouns for learners to master, primarily because it is a classic false friend for English speakers. While it looks exactly like the English word 'control', its primary meaning in everyday German is inspection, check, screening, or monitoring. When you hear this word in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, it usually means someone is checking your tickets, your passport, or the quality of a product. Understanding this distinction is crucial for navigating daily life, from riding the train to passing through airport security.
- Primary Meaning
- Inspection, verification, or examination of something to ensure it meets rules or standards.
Wir müssen durch die Kontrolle am Flughafen gehen.
In everyday situations, you will frequently encounter compound words ending in -kontrolle. For example, when riding public transportation, you might hear an announcement about a Fahrkartenkontrolle (ticket inspection). If you are driving and the police stop you, it is a Verkehrskontrolle (traffic check). At the border, you go through Passkontrolle (passport control/check).
- Secondary Meaning
- Mastery, command, or power over a situation (similar to the English 'control'), often used in specific idioms.
Die Feuerwehr hat das Feuer unter Kontrolle.
The concept of Kontrolle is deeply embedded in German administrative and civic culture. Rules and regulations are highly valued, and therefore, the mechanisms to verify compliance—the Kontrollen—are ubiquitous. Whether it is the Qualitätskontrolle in manufacturing, which gave rise to the famous 'Made in Germany' standard, or the Steuerkontrolle by the tax authorities, the word implies a systematic, thorough review.
Bitte halten Sie Ihre Tickets für die Kontrolle bereit.
- Grammar Note
- The noun is feminine (die Kontrolle) and forms its plural by adding an '-n' (die Kontrollen). It is often used with the preposition 'über' (+ accusative) when referring to having control over something.
Er verlor die Kontrolle über das Fahrzeug.
When discussing psychological or emotional states, Kontrolle is also used similarly to English. You can have Selbstkontrolle (self-control) or experience a Kontrollverlust (loss of control). However, the most frequent daily encounters with the word will undoubtedly be in the context of someone checking your credentials, your work, or your compliance with a rule. Embracing this dual nature—primary meaning as inspection, secondary as mastery—is key to fluency.
Die Kontrolle der Daten ist sehr wichtig.
Using Kontrolle correctly in sentences requires understanding its noun gender, its plural form, and the specific verbs and prepositions it pairs with. As a feminine noun, it takes the article die in the nominative and accusative cases, and der in the dative and genitive cases. The plural is die Kontrollen. Let us explore the various syntactic structures where this word shines.
- With the verb 'haben' (to have)
- When expressing mastery over a situation, use 'die Kontrolle haben über' + accusative.
Der Manager hat die Kontrolle über das Projekt.
Another very common construction is the prepositional phrase unter Kontrolle (under control). This phrase is used with verbs like haben (to have), bringen (to bring), or halten (to keep). It is one of the instances where the German usage perfectly mirrors the English idiom.
Wir müssen die Situation unter Kontrolle bringen.
- In Compound Nouns
- German loves compound nouns. 'Kontrolle' is frequently the final element (the head noun), determining the gender of the entire word.
Die Fahrkartenkontrolle findet im Zug statt.
When you want to say that something is out of control, you use the phrase außer Kontrolle. This is often paired with the verb geraten (to get/fall into a state).
Die Party ist völlig außer Kontrolle geraten.
- With 'verlieren' (to lose)
- To express losing control, use 'die Kontrolle verlieren'.
Er hat die Kontrolle über sein Leben verloren.
In formal or bureaucratic contexts, you might see the phrase zur Kontrolle (for the purpose of checking). For instance, a document might be submitted zur Kontrolle. This highlights the primary meaning of inspection and verification. Mastering these sentence patterns will make your German sound much more natural and precise.
The word Kontrolle is omnipresent in German-speaking countries. Because German society places a high value on order, safety, and adherence to rules, the mechanisms for ensuring these standards—the Kontrollen—are a frequent topic of conversation and a visible part of daily life. You will hear this word in a wide variety of contexts, from public transportation to the workplace, and from news broadcasts to casual chats.
- Public Transportation
- The most common daily encounter. Ticket inspectors (Kontrolleure) perform a Fahrkartenkontrolle.
Achtung, in der U-Bahn ist heute eine Kontrolle.
Airports and borders are another major domain for this word. The Sicherheitskontrolle (security check) and Passkontrolle (passport control) are mandatory steps for travelers. In these environments, the word is usually printed on large signs and announced over loudspeakers. It is a word you absolutely must recognize to navigate travel smoothly.
Nach der Kontrolle gehen Sie bitte zum Gate.
- The Workplace
- Used extensively in manufacturing, IT, and management to denote quality assurance and monitoring.
Die Qualitätskontrolle hat den Fehler gefunden.
In the news, you will frequently hear about Grenzkontrollen (border controls) or Polizeikontrollen (police checks). During times of crisis or heightened security, the frequency of these checks increases, and the word dominates headlines. Furthermore, in medical contexts, a routine check-up is often referred to as a Kontrolluntersuchung or simply a Kontrolle.
Ich muss morgen zur Kontrolle zum Zahnarzt.
- Sports and Action
- Commentators use it to describe a player's mastery over the ball or a vehicle.
Der Spieler hat eine unglaubliche Ballkontrolle.
Whether you are reading a formal letter from a government agency, listening to a sports broadcast, or just trying to catch a train without getting fined, Kontrolle is a word that frames the boundaries and rules of German public life. Recognizing its context will help you respond appropriately, whether that means showing your ID or simply understanding a news report.
Because Kontrolle looks and sounds so much like the English word 'control', it is a notorious trap for English speakers learning German. The most frequent and glaring mistakes stem from assuming a 1:1 translation in all contexts. While there is overlap, using Kontrolle to mean 'operating a machine' or 'having power over people' often leads to confusion or unintended meanings.
- Mistake 1: Using it for remote controls
- English speakers often say 'Wo ist die Kontrolle?' when looking for the TV remote. This is wrong.
Falsch: Wo ist die TV-Kontrolle?
Richtig: Wo ist die Fernbedienung?
Another major pitfall is using the verb form kontrollieren when you mean 'to steer' or 'to manage'. If you say 'Ich kontrolliere das Auto', a German speaker might imagine you are inspecting the car's engine or checking its registration papers, rather than driving it. To express steering or operating, you must use verbs like steuern, lenken, or bedienen.
Falsch: Er kontrolliert die Maschine.
Richtig: Er bedient die Maschine.
- Mistake 2: Preposition Errors
- Learners often use 'von' instead of 'über' when translating 'control of/over'.
Falsch: Die Kontrolle von dem Markt.
Richtig: Die Kontrolle über den Markt.
It is also common to confuse the contexts of power. If a teacher 'controls' a classroom in English, it means they keep the students disciplined. In German, if a teacher kontrolliert the students, it implies they are checking their homework or searching their bags. To express maintaining discipline, you would say the teacher has the class im Griff (in their grip/under control).
Der Lehrer hat die Klasse im Griff. (Not: Der Lehrer kontrolliert die Klasse).
- Mistake 3: Overusing the word for 'Management'
- Using 'Kontrolle' to mean managing a business or team is incorrect. Use 'Leitung' or 'Führung'.
Er hat die Leitung der Firma übernommen. (Not: Er hat die Kontrolle der Firma übernommen).
By being mindful of these false friend scenarios, you can avoid awkward misunderstandings. Remember that German is a highly specific language. Where English uses one broad word like 'control' for many concepts, German splits these meanings into distinct words like Kontrolle (inspection), Steuerung (steering/operating), Leitung (management), and Macht (power).
To truly enrich your German vocabulary, it is essential to learn the nuances between Kontrolle and its synonyms or related terms. Because Kontrolle has multiple facets—inspection, verification, and mastery—different alternatives are used depending on the exact context. Let us break down the most useful alternatives and when to deploy them.
- Die Überprüfung
- Meaning 'review' or 'check'. It is highly synonymous with the inspection aspect of Kontrolle but sounds slightly more formal and thorough.
Die Überprüfung der Dokumente dauert an. (Similar to: Die Kontrolle der Dokumente...)
When you want to express the idea of operating or steering a machine, which is a common mistranslation of 'control', you should use die Steuerung or die Bedienung. Steuerung refers to the technical mechanism of steering or directing, while Bedienung refers to the human operation of a device.
Die Steuerung des Flugzeugs ist komplex. (Not: Die Kontrolle des Flugzeugs...)
- Die Aufsicht
- Meaning 'supervision' or 'oversight'. Use this when referring to monitoring people, like children or workers, to ensure they are safe or doing their job.
Die Kinder stehen unter der Aufsicht des Lehrers. (Rather than under his Kontrolle)
If you are talking about power, dominance, or authority over a region or a group of people, the correct word is die Macht (power) or die Herrschaft (rule/dominion). While you can say a dictator has die Kontrolle über das Land, using die Macht emphasizes the political power rather than just the administrative grip.
Der König hat die Macht im Land. (More natural than Kontrolle for absolute power).
- Die Beherrschung
- Meaning 'self-control' or 'mastery'. Often used for emotional control or mastering a skill.
Er verlor die Beherrschung und schrie. (Similar to losing emotional Kontrolle).
By diversifying your vocabulary with these alternatives, you not only avoid the classic false friend mistakes but also express yourself with the precision that native German speakers appreciate. Knowing when to use Überprüfung instead of Kontrolle, or Steuerung instead of Bedienung, marks a significant step toward advanced fluency.
How Formal Is It?
"Die steuerliche Kontrolle ergab keine Unregelmäßigkeiten."
"Am Eingang gibt es eine Taschenkontrolle."
"Pass auf, heute ist Kontrolle in der Bahn!"
"Der Zahnarzt macht heute nur eine kleine Kontrolle."
"Die Bullen machen wieder Kontrolle an der Ecke."
재미있는 사실
Because the word originally meant 'checking a duplicate list', the German usage of 'Kontrolle' as 'inspection' is actually much closer to the word's historical roots than the modern English usage of 'control' as 'power or steering'!
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing the 'o' in 'trol' like the English 'oh' (diphthong). It should be a short, crisp 'aw' sound.
- Stressing the first syllable (KON-trol-le). The stress must be on the second syllable.
- Dropping the final 'e'. It must be pronounced as a soft 'uh' (schwa).
- Rolling the 'r' like in Spanish. Standard German uses a throaty 'r'.
- Pronouncing it exactly like the English word 'control'.
난이도
Easy to recognize, but context determines if it means 'inspection' or 'mastery'.
Requires knowing the correct prepositions (über + Akk) and avoiding false friend translations.
Pronunciation is straightforward, but remembering to use 'steuern' instead of 'kontrollieren' for driving takes practice.
Very common in public announcements, easy to catch.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Prepositions with abstract nouns
die Kontrolle *über* das Land (Accusative)
Compound noun gender determination
der Pass + die Kontrolle = *die* Passkontrolle
N-Declension in plural
die Kontrolle -> die Kontrolle*n*
Fixed prepositional phrases
*unter* Kontrolle, *außer* Kontrolle, *zur* Kontrolle
Nominalization of verbs
kontrollieren -> die Kontrolle
수준별 예문
Wo ist die Kontrolle?
Where is the check/inspection?
Nominative case, feminine article 'die'.
Die Kontrolle ist hier.
The check is here.
Simple subject-verb-location structure.
Ich gehe zur Kontrolle.
I am going to the check.
'zur' is a contraction of 'zu der' (dative).
Die Kontrolle dauert lange.
The check takes a long time.
Verb 'dauern' used for duration.
Das ist eine Kontrolle.
This is an inspection.
Indefinite article 'eine' for feminine noun.
Wir warten auf die Kontrolle.
We are waiting for the check.
'warten auf' takes the accusative case.
Die Passkontrolle ist dort.
The passport control is there.
Compound noun: Pass + Kontrolle.
Gibt es eine Kontrolle?
Is there a check?
'Gibt es' takes the accusative case ('eine').
Die Polizei macht eine Kontrolle.
The police are doing a check.
'machen' used colloquially for conducting a check.
Haben Sie Angst vor der Kontrolle?
Are you afraid of the inspection?
'Angst haben vor' takes the dative case ('der').
Die Fahrkartenkontrolle kommt.
The ticket inspection is coming.
Compound noun as the subject.
Alles ist unter Kontrolle.
Everything is under control.
Fixed prepositional phrase 'unter Kontrolle'.
Wir müssen die Kontrolle passieren.
We have to pass the check.
Modal verb 'müssen' with infinitive at the end.
Die Kontrolle war sehr streng.
The inspection was very strict.
Past tense 'war' with adjective 'streng'.
Ich habe mein Ticket für die Kontrolle.
I have my ticket for the inspection.
'für' takes the accusative case ('die').
Nach der Kontrolle können wir gehen.
After the check, we can go.
'Nach' always takes the dative case ('der').
Der Pilot hat das Flugzeug unter Kontrolle.
The pilot has the airplane under control.
'unter Kontrolle haben' idiom.
Die Qualitätskontrolle in dieser Fabrik ist hervorragend.
The quality control in this factory is excellent.
Compound noun as subject, descriptive adjective.
Er hat die Kontrolle über sein Auto verloren.
He lost control of his car.
'Kontrolle über' + accusative, perfect tense.
Regelmäßige Kontrollen sind wichtig für die Sicherheit.
Regular checks are important for safety.
Plural form 'Kontrollen' without an article.
Die Situation geriet außer Kontrolle.
The situation got out of control.
'außer Kontrolle geraten' idiom in simple past (Präteritum).
Bitte bereiten Sie sich auf die Kontrolle vor.
Please prepare yourself for the inspection.
Reflexive verb 'sich vorbereiten auf' + accusative.
Der Arzt macht morgen eine Nachkontrolle.
The doctor is doing a follow-up check tomorrow.
Prefix 'Nach-' indicating a follow-up.
Ohne Kontrolle gibt es Chaos.
Without control, there is chaos.
'Ohne' takes the accusative, used here abstractly.
Der plötzliche Kontrollverlust führte zu einem Unfall.
The sudden loss of control led to an accident.
Compound noun 'Kontrollverlust' (loss of control).
Die staatliche Kontrolle der Medien wird stark kritisiert.
The state control of the media is heavily criticized.
Passive voice 'wird kritisiert', genitive 'der Medien'.
Sie behielt in der Krise die volle Kontrolle.
She kept full control during the crisis.
Verb 'behalten' in Präteritum.
Verschärfte Grenzkontrollen wurden gestern eingeführt.
Stricter border controls were introduced yesterday.
Passive voice in Präteritum 'wurden eingeführt'.
Es mangelt an einer unabhängigen Kontrollinstanz.
There is a lack of an independent supervisory authority.
'mangeln an' + dative.
Die ständige Kontrolle durch den Chef nervt die Mitarbeiter.
The constant monitoring by the boss annoys the employees.
'durch' + accusative to indicate the agent.
Er versucht, die Kontrolle an sich zu reißen.
He is trying to seize control.
Idiom 'die Kontrolle an sich reißen' with 'zu' infinitive.
Die Finanzkontrolle deckte mehrere Unregelmäßigkeiten auf.
The financial audit uncovered several irregularities.
Separable verb 'aufdecken' in Präteritum.
Die lückenlose Kontrolle der Lieferkette ist logistisch anspruchsvoll.
The seamless monitoring of the supply chain is logistically demanding.
Adjective 'lückenlos' (seamless/gapless) with genitive attribute.
Das System entzieht sich jeglicher menschlichen Kontrolle.
The system evades any human control.
Reflexive verb 'sich entziehen' + dative case ('jeglicher menschlichen Kontrolle').
Gewaltenteilung dient der gegenseitigen Kontrolle der Staatsorgane.
The separation of powers serves the mutual control of state organs.
'dienen' + dative ('der gegenseitigen Kontrolle').
Die illusionäre Vorstellung von absoluter Kontrolle ist ein psychologisches Phänomen.
The illusory concept of absolute control is a psychological phenomenon.
Complex noun phrase as subject.
Wir müssen Kontrollmechanismen etablieren, um Missbrauch vorzubeugen.
We must establish control mechanisms to prevent abuse.
'um... zu' infinitive clause expressing purpose.
Der Kontrollzwang beeinträchtigt seine Lebensqualität erheblich.
The obsessive-compulsive need for control significantly impairs his quality of life.
Compound 'Kontrollzwang' (compulsion to control).
Die Behörde übt eine strenge Aufsicht und Kontrolle aus.
The authority exercises strict supervision and control.
Separable verb 'ausüben' (to exercise/exert).
In der Debatte ging es um die Verhältnismäßigkeit der Kontrollen.
The debate was about the proportionality of the checks.
'es geht um' + accusative, genitive attribute ('der Kontrollen').
Die Omnipräsenz digitaler Überwachung führt zu einer subtilen, aber allumfassenden sozialen Kontrolle.
The omnipresence of digital surveillance leads to a subtle but all-encompassing social control.
Complex sentence structure with multiple adjectives and abstract nouns.
Der Autor thematisiert den schleichenden Kontrollverlust des Individuums in der Spätmoderne.
The author addresses the creeping loss of control of the individual in late modernity.
Academic vocabulary ('thematisiert', 'Spätmoderne'), genitive ('des Individuums').
Eine wehrhafte Demokratie bedarf weitreichender, doch rechtsstaatlich verbriefter Kontrollbefugnisse.
A resilient democracy requires extensive, yet constitutionally guaranteed powers of control.
'bedürfen' + genitive ('weitreichender... Kontrollbefugnisse').
Die Delegation von Verantwortung darf nicht mit einer Preisgabe von Kontrolle einhergehen.
The delegation of responsibility must not be accompanied by a surrender of control.
'einhergehen mit' + dative ('einer Preisgabe').
Es obliegt der internen Revision, die Wirksamkeit der implementierten Kontrollsysteme zu verifizieren.
It is incumbent upon the internal audit to verify the effectiveness of the implemented control systems.
Formal phrasing 'Es obliegt' + dative, extended infinitive clause.
Die Kontrollillusion verleitet Akteure an den Finanzmärkten oft zu irrationalen Risiken.
The illusion of control often tempts actors in financial markets into irrational risks.
'verleiten zu' + dative.
Das Paradigma der vollständigen Kontrolle erweist sich in komplexen dynamischen Systemen als obsolet.
The paradigm of complete control proves to be obsolete in complex dynamic systems.
Reflexive 'sich erweisen als' + adjective.
Die diskursive Verschiebung von Freiheit hin zu präventiver Kontrolle markiert einen gesellschaftlichen Paradigmenwechsel.
The discursive shift from freedom towards preventive control marks a societal paradigm shift.
Highly academic phrasing, 'Verschiebung von... hin zu...'.
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
Alles unter Kontrolle!
Außer Kontrolle
Zur Kontrolle
Die Kontrolle behalten
Die Kontrolle abgeben
Sich der Kontrolle entziehen
Eine Routinekontrolle
Unter ständiger Kontrolle
Die Kontrolle verschärfen
Der Kontrolleur
자주 혼동되는 단어
Use 'Steuerung' for steering a vehicle or operating a machine. Do not use 'Kontrolle'.
Use 'Fernbedienung' for a TV remote. Do not use 'Kontrolle'.
Use 'Macht' for political power or absolute dominance over a country, rather than 'Kontrolle'.
관용어 및 표현
"etwas im Griff haben"
To have something under control. This is the most common idiomatic alternative to 'unter Kontrolle haben'.
Der Lehrer hat die unruhige Klasse gut im Griff.
informal"aus dem Ruder laufen"
To get out of hand/control. Literally 'to run out of the rudder'.
Das Projekt ist völlig aus dem Ruder gelaufen.
informal"die Zügel in der Hand halten"
To be in control/in charge. Literally 'to hold the reins in hand'.
Die Chefin hält die Zügel fest in der Hand.
neutral"über die Stränge schlagen"
To kick over the traces / get out of control (usually referring to behavior).
Auf der Feier haben einige Gäste über die Stränge geschlagen.
informal"das Heft des Handelns in der Hand haben"
To be in control of the action/initiative.
Wir müssen das Heft des Handelns wieder in die Hand nehmen.
formal"jemandem auf die Finger schauen"
To keep a close eye on someone / monitor them closely.
Der Chef schaut den neuen Mitarbeitern genau auf die Finger.
informal"aus den Fugen geraten"
To fall apart / get out of joint (lose control of a system).
Die Welt scheint aus den Fugen zu geraten.
literary"Herr der Lage sein"
To be master of the situation (in control).
Trotz des Chaos blieb er Herr der Lage.
neutral"jemanden an der kurzen Leine halten"
To keep someone on a short leash (strict control).
Der Manager hält sein Team an der kurzen Leine.
informal"die Oberhand gewinnen"
To gain the upper hand / gain control.
Schließlich gewann die Polizei die Oberhand.
neutral혼동하기 쉬운
English speakers use it to mean 'steer' or 'manage'.
'Kontrollieren' means to inspect or check. 'Steuern' means to steer. 'Leiten' means to manage.
Der Lehrer kontrolliert die Hausaufgaben. (The teacher checks the homework).
Related to operating machines.
'Bedienung' is the human operation of a device (or a waiter). 'Kontrolle' is inspecting it.
Die Bedienung der Maschine ist einfach.
English 'control of a company'.
'Leitung' means management or leadership. 'Kontrolle' means auditing or checking the company.
Er übernimmt die Leitung der Firma.
Both involve watching over something.
'Aufsicht' is supervision (keeping people safe/on task). 'Kontrolle' is inspection (checking for errors/rules).
Die Kinder brauchen Aufsicht.
English 'controls' (buttons/switches).
Physical buttons or switches are 'Schalter' or 'Knöpfe', not 'Kontrollen'.
Drücken Sie diesen Schalter.
문장 패턴
[Subject] + ist + zur/bei der + Kontrolle.
Er ist bei der Passkontrolle.
[Subject] + macht + eine + Kontrolle.
Die Polizei macht eine Kontrolle.
[Subject] + hat + [Object] + unter Kontrolle.
Die Feuerwehr hat den Brand unter Kontrolle.
[Subject] + verliert + die Kontrolle + über + [Object].
Der Fahrer verliert die Kontrolle über das Auto.
[Subject] + gerät + außer Kontrolle.
Die Demonstration gerät außer Kontrolle.
[Subject] + dient + der + Kontrolle + [Genitive].
Das System dient der Kontrolle der Ausgaben.
[Subject] + entzieht sich + der + Kontrolle.
Der Markt entzieht sich der staatlichen Kontrolle.
Es bedarf + [Genitive Adjective] + Kontrolle, um + [Infinitive Clause].
Es bedarf strenger Kontrolle, um Missbrauch zu verhindern.
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
Very High (Top 1000 spoken words due to public transport and travel).
-
Wo ist die Fernkontrolle?
→
Wo ist die Fernbedienung?
'Fernkontrolle' is a literal, incorrect translation of 'remote control'. The correct word is 'Fernbedienung'.
-
Ich kontrolliere das Auto.
→
Ich steuere das Auto.
'Kontrollieren' means to inspect. If you say you 'kontrollieren' the car, Germans think you are a mechanic checking the engine. Use 'steuern' for driving.
-
Er hat die Kontrolle von dem Projekt.
→
Er hat die Kontrolle über das Projekt.
The correct preposition for 'control over' is 'über' + accusative, not 'von' (of).
-
Der Lehrer kontrolliert die Klasse gut.
→
Der Lehrer hat die Klasse gut im Griff.
Using 'kontrollieren' for people implies searching or auditing them. To say a teacher manages a class well, use the idiom 'im Griff haben'.
-
Sie übernimmt die Kontrolle der Firma.
→
Sie übernimmt die Leitung der Firma.
When talking about taking over the management or leadership of a company, 'Leitung' or 'Führung' is correct. 'Kontrolle' implies taking over the auditing department.
팁
False Friend Alert
Never use 'Kontrolle' for a remote control or for steering a vehicle. Always think 'inspection' first.
Preposition 'über'
When expressing mastery over something, always use 'die Kontrolle über' + Accusative. E.g., Kontrolle über den Hund.
Train Travel
Ticket inspectors in Germany often wear normal clothes. When you hear 'Fahrscheine bitte', the 'Kontrolle' has begun!
Compound Master
Learn to stick words in front of 'kontrolle': Passkontrolle, Qualitätskontrolle, Grenzkontrolle. It makes you sound fluent.
Stress the 'O'
Make sure to stress the second syllable: kon-TROL-le. And pronounce the final 'e' as a soft 'uh'.
Unter Kontrolle
Memorize the phrase 'alles unter Kontrolle' (everything under control). It is used exactly like in English and is very common.
Use 'Steuern'
If you want to translate the English verb 'to control' (a machine), force yourself to use 'steuern' or 'bedienen'.
Doctor Visits
If the doctor says 'Kommen Sie nächste Woche zur Kontrolle', they mean 'Come back next week for a check-up'.
Double L
Remember to spell it with a double 'l': Kontrolle. Just like in English, but with a 'K' and an 'e' at the end.
The Magnifying Glass
Whenever you see the word 'Kontrolle', visualize a magnifying glass. This will stop you from thinking about steering wheels.
암기하기
기억법
Imagine a TROLL (Kon-TROL-le) working at the airport, carefully INSPECTING your bags. The troll doesn't steer the plane; he just checks your stuff.
시각적 연상
Picture a giant magnifying glass hovering over a passport. The magnifying glass represents the act of checking and inspecting, which is the core meaning of Kontrolle.
Word Web
챌린지
Next time you watch a movie with an airport scene, shout 'Sicherheitskontrolle!' when they go through the metal detectors. If someone is driving a car, remind yourself: 'He is NOT doing a Kontrolle, he is steering (steuern).'
어원
The word 'Kontrolle' entered the German language in the 18th century from the French word 'contrôle'. The French word itself comes from the Old French 'contre-rolle', which literally means 'counter-roll' or 'copy of a roll (of accounts)'. In medieval times, a duplicate register was kept to verify the original accounts. Thus, the original meaning was strictly about checking and verifying records against a duplicate. Over time, the meaning expanded to include any form of inspection or supervision.
원래 의미: A duplicate register or copy of an account used for verification.
Indo-European > Italic > Romance (via French borrowing into Germanic).문화적 맥락
Be careful not to tell someone 'Ich kontrolliere dich' unless you literally mean you are searching their pockets or auditing their work. It sounds invasive. Use 'Ich passe auf dich auf' (I'm looking out for you) instead.
English speakers often bristle at the word 'control', associating it with micromanagement or authoritarianism. In German, 'Kontrolle' is often a neutral, administrative term for ensuring things work properly.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Public Transportation
- Fahrkartenkontrolle!
- Bitte die Fahrscheine zur Kontrolle.
- Ich wurde kontrolliert.
- Der Kontrolleur kommt.
Airport / Travel
- Sicherheitskontrolle
- Passkontrolle
- Bitte legen Sie alles in die Box zur Kontrolle.
- Nach der Kontrolle links.
Driving / Traffic
- Allgemeine Verkehrskontrolle!
- Führerschein und Fahrzeugpapiere bitte.
- Er verlor die Kontrolle über den Wagen.
- Polizeikontrolle.
Work / Manufacturing
- Qualitätskontrolle
- Die Kontrolle hat den Fehler gefunden.
- Wir müssen das kontrollieren.
- Strenge Kontrollen.
Emergencies / Crisis
- Alles unter Kontrolle.
- Das Feuer ist unter Kontrolle.
- Die Situation ist außer Kontrolle.
- Ruhe bewahren und Kontrolle behalten.
대화 시작하기
"Wurdest du schon mal in der Bahn kontrolliert, als du dein Ticket vergessen hattest?"
"Findest du, dass es am Flughafen zu viele Kontrollen gibt?"
"Wie behältst du in stressigen Situationen die Kontrolle?"
"Was hältst du von dem Spruch 'Vertrauen ist gut, Kontrolle ist besser'?"
"Hast du schon mal die Kontrolle über dein Auto auf Eis verloren?"
일기 주제
Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du völlig die Kontrolle verloren hast.
Schreibe über deine letzte Reise und die Kontrollen am Flughafen oder an der Grenze.
Ist soziale Kontrolle in einem kleinen Dorf eher positiv oder negativ? Begründe deine Meinung.
Wie wichtig ist Selbstkontrolle für den persönlichen Erfolg?
Erfinde eine kurze Geschichte über einen Ticketkontrolleur (Kontrolleur), der einen blinden Passagier findet.
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문No, absolutely not. This is a very common mistake. The German word for a TV remote control is 'die Fernbedienung'. If you ask for the 'Kontrolle', a German speaker will be very confused and might think you want to inspect the TV.
If you mean you are driving/steering it, use 'Ich steuere das Auto'. If you mean you have successfully prevented it from crashing during a skid, you can say 'Ich habe das Auto unter Kontrolle'.
It means 'ticket inspection'. It is a compound word made of 'Fahrkarten' (tickets) and 'Kontrolle' (inspection). You will hear this constantly on German trains and buses.
Yes, it is 'die Kontrolle'. All German nouns ending in '-e' that have multiple syllables are usually feminine. The plural is 'die Kontrollen'.
You use 'über' followed by the accusative case. For example, 'Die Kontrolle über das Land' (Control over the country).
Yes. In medical contexts, a routine check-up or follow-up appointment is often called 'eine Kontrolle' or 'eine Kontrolluntersuchung'.
'Macht' translates to 'power' (political, physical, or magical). 'Kontrolle' is more about administration, checking, or keeping a situation from becoming chaotic. A king has 'Macht', an auditor has 'Kontrolle'.
The exact translation is 'außer Kontrolle'. It is usually paired with the verb 'geraten' (to get/fall into). Example: 'Das Auto geriet außer Kontrolle'.
It is a famous proverb (often attributed to Lenin) that reflects the cultural appreciation for verification and rules. It means that while trusting someone is nice, actually checking their work ensures it is done right.
No. If you say 'Ich kontrolliere mein Team', it sounds like you are searching their bags or auditing their every move. Use 'Ich leite mein Team' (I lead/manage my team).
셀프 테스트 200 질문
Translate: 'The ticket inspection is on the train.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Die Fahrkartenkontrolle ist im Zug.
Use the compound noun 'Fahrkartenkontrolle'.
Use the compound noun 'Fahrkartenkontrolle'.
Translate: 'Everything is under control.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Alles ist unter Kontrolle.
Use the idiom 'unter Kontrolle'.
Use the idiom 'unter Kontrolle'.
Translate: 'He lost control of the car.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Er verlor die Kontrolle über das Auto.
Use 'Kontrolle über' + accusative.
Use 'Kontrolle über' + accusative.
Translate: 'Where is the passport control?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Wo ist die Passkontrolle?
Use the compound noun 'Passkontrolle'.
Use the compound noun 'Passkontrolle'.
Translate: 'The situation is out of control.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Die Situation ist außer Kontrolle.
Use the idiom 'außer Kontrolle'.
Use the idiom 'außer Kontrolle'.
Translate: 'I have to go to the security check.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Ich muss zur Sicherheitskontrolle gehen.
Use 'zur' (zu der) and 'Sicherheitskontrolle'.
Use 'zur' (zu der) and 'Sicherheitskontrolle'.
Translate: 'The police are doing a traffic check.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Die Polizei macht eine Verkehrskontrolle.
Use 'Verkehrskontrolle'.
Use 'Verkehrskontrolle'.
Translate: 'Quality control is important.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Die Qualitätskontrolle ist wichtig.
Use 'Qualitätskontrolle'.
Use 'Qualitätskontrolle'.
Translate: 'Trust is good, control is better.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Vertrauen ist gut, Kontrolle ist besser.
This is a famous German proverb.
This is a famous German proverb.
Translate: 'Please give me your ID for inspection.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Bitte geben Sie mir Ihren Ausweis zur Kontrolle.
Use 'zur Kontrolle'.
Use 'zur Kontrolle'.
Write a sentence using 'Kontrollverlust'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Der Kontrollverlust führte zu einem Unfall.
Loss of control led to an accident.
Loss of control led to an accident.
Write a sentence using 'Grenzkontrolle'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
An der Grenze gibt es eine Grenzkontrolle.
There is a border control at the border.
There is a border control at the border.
Translate: 'She kept control.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Sie behielt die Kontrolle.
Use the verb 'behalten'.
Use the verb 'behalten'.
Translate: 'The fire is under control.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Das Feuer ist unter Kontrolle.
Use 'unter Kontrolle'.
Use 'unter Kontrolle'.
Translate: 'I am going to the doctor for a check-up.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Ich gehe zur Kontrolle zum Arzt.
Use 'zur Kontrolle' for a medical check-up.
Use 'zur Kontrolle' for a medical check-up.
Write a sentence using 'Routinekontrolle'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Das ist nur eine Routinekontrolle.
This is just a routine check.
This is just a routine check.
Translate: 'He operates the machine' (Do not use Kontrolle!).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Er bedient die Maschine.
Use 'bedienen' or 'steuern' to avoid the false friend.
Use 'bedienen' or 'steuern' to avoid the false friend.
Translate: 'Where is the remote control?' (Do not use Kontrolle!).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Wo ist die Fernbedienung?
Use 'Fernbedienung' to avoid the false friend.
Use 'Fernbedienung' to avoid the false friend.
Translate: 'The inspector is coming.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Der Kontrolleur kommt.
Use 'Kontrolleur' for the person inspecting.
Use 'Kontrolleur' for the person inspecting.
Write a sentence using 'Selbstkontrolle'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Er hat viel Selbstkontrolle.
He has a lot of self-control.
He has a lot of self-control.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress the second syllable 'trol' and pronounce the final 'e' as a soft 'uh'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'Fahr' and 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'Pass' and 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'Sich' and 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ensure the 'r' in 'unter' is soft, and stress 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
'Außer' sounds like 'ow-ser'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'täts' and 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'kehrs' and 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
'Zur' is pronounced like 'tsoor' (soft r).
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress the final syllable 'leur', which sounds like French 'eur'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'trol' and 'lie'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'trol' and 'hal'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'trol' and 'lust'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'Grenz' and 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'Selbst' and 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Stress 'Nach' and 'trol'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
A rhythmic proverb. Stress 'Trau', 'gut', 'trol', 'bes'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Practice the correct word for remote control.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Practice the correct word for steering.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Practice the idiom for having something under control.
What should you get ready?
The announcement asks passengers to prepare tickets for inspection.
Is the fire completely out?
'Unter Kontrolle' means it is managed, even if not fully extinguished.
Did the speaker use the word 'Kontrolle'?
Highlights the correct vocabulary for TV remote.
Where should you go after landing?
'Passkontrolle' is the destination.
What happened to the driver?
'Verlor die Kontrolle' means lost control.
Who is likely speaking?
'Verkehrskontrolle' is a police traffic stop.
Is the product broken?
Quality control checked it.
Was the situation calm?
'Außer Kontrolle' means chaotic.
Where are you likely located?
'Sicherheitskontrolle' is airport security.
When is the next appointment?
'Zur Kontrolle' means for a medical check-up.
What is the boss's motto?
He prefers to verify things.
Who caught the speaker?
'Kontrolleur' is the inspector.
What must the person learn?
'Kontrolle abgeben' means to relinquish control.
What caused the traffic jams?
'Grenzkontrollen' means border checks.
Why does he check the stove ten times?
OCD-like checking behavior.
'Kontrolle' is not used for remote controls. Use 'Fernbedienung'.
Use 'steuern' for driving/steering. 'Kontrollieren' means inspecting the car.
The correct preposition is 'über' (+ accusative), not 'von'.
To say a teacher manages a class well, use 'im Griff haben'. 'Kontrollieren' implies searching them.
The correct preposition for the idiom is 'unter', not 'in'.
The standard phrase is 'zur Kontrolle' (zu der Kontrolle).
'Die Kontrolle' is singular, so the verb must be 'ist', even though 'Daten' is plural.
'Kontrolle' is a feminine noun, so it must be 'die Kontrolle' in the accusative case.
For checking passports, use 'Kontrolle', not 'Steuerung' (which means steering).
The correct idiom for 'out of control' is 'außer Kontrolle'.
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
'Kontrolle' usually means an inspection or check (like tickets or passports). Do not use it for steering a car or a TV remote!
- Means 'inspection' or 'check'.
- False friend: not for operating machines.
- Used heavily in travel (Passkontrolle).
- Idiom: 'unter Kontrolle' (under control).
False Friend Alert
Never use 'Kontrolle' for a remote control or for steering a vehicle. Always think 'inspection' first.
Preposition 'über'
When expressing mastery over something, always use 'die Kontrolle über' + Accusative. E.g., Kontrolle über den Hund.
Train Travel
Ticket inspectors in Germany often wear normal clothes. When you hear 'Fahrscheine bitte', the 'Kontrolle' has begun!
Compound Master
Learn to stick words in front of 'kontrolle': Passkontrolle, Qualitätskontrolle, Grenzkontrolle. It makes you sound fluent.
예시
In context, `Kontrolle` expresses: inspection/check.
관련 콘텐츠
관련 표현
false_friends 관련 단어
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