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B1 verb #5,000 가장 일반적인 10분 분량

schwören

상위 5,000

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 schwören 30초 만에

설명 schwören in your Level:

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400+w

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

400+w

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

400+w

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

400+w

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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

schwören 30초 만에

Schwören means to swear or take an oath.
It's a serious promise, often formal.
Used in courts, politics, and for strong personal vows.
Key verbs: schwören, geschworen, schwor.

Core Meaning

The German verb "schwören" translates to "to swear" or "to take an oath" in English. It signifies a solemn promise or declaration, often made with a strong conviction of its truthfulness or the commitment to its fulfillment. This word carries a weight of seriousness and is typically used in situations where a promise needs to be validated by a formal or deeply felt declaration.

Formal Oaths

In formal settings, "schwören" is used when individuals take an oath, such as in legal proceedings, before assuming a public office, or during important ceremonies like weddings. For example, a witness in court might "schwören" to tell the truth. Politicians "schwören" their allegiance to a country or constitution. This usage emphasizes the binding nature of the promise and the consequences of breaking it.

Strong Personal Promises

Beyond formal contexts, "schwören" can also express a very strong, heartfelt personal promise or declaration of belief. When someone "schört" something, they are asserting their absolute conviction or commitment to it. This might be a promise to a friend, a declaration of loyalty, or an affirmation of a deeply held belief. The intensity of the word suggests that the speaker is willing to stand by their word with great certainty.

Figurative Usage

In some instances, "schwören" can be used figuratively to express extreme certainty or a strong preference, though this is less common and more colloquial. For example, someone might say they "schören" a particular brand of coffee, meaning they absolutely love it and would never switch. However, it's important to distinguish this informal usage from the more serious connotations of taking an oath.

Der Zeuge musste vor Gericht, die Wahrheit zu sagen, schwören.

The witness had to swear to tell the truth in court.

Sie schwur ihm ewige Treue.

She swore eternal loyalty to him.

Basic Conjugation

"Schwören" is an irregular verb. The present tense forms are: ich schwöre, du schwörst, er/sie/es schwört, wir schwören, ihr schwört, sie/Sie schwören. The past tense (Präteritum) is: ich schwor, du schwur(e)st, er/sie/es schwor, wir schwuren, ihr schwur(e)t, sie/Sie schwuren. The past participle is "geschworen".

Swearing an Oath (Legal/Formal)

In legal or formal settings, you often "schwören" something. The preposition "auf" is commonly used here, followed by the accusative case. For instance, "Ich schwöre auf die Verfassung" (I swear on the constitution). When swearing to tell the truth, it's "Ich schwöre, die Wahrheit zu sagen." This structure emphasizes the object or principle upon which the oath is taken.

Swearing a Promise (Personal)

When making a strong personal promise, "schwören" can be used with a direct object or a clause. For example, "Ich schwöre dir, dass ich dir helfe" (I swear to you that I will help you). You can also swear by something or someone using the preposition "bei": "Ich schwöre bei Gott" (I swear by God). This indicates invoking a higher power or a sacred entity for the promise.

Expressing Strong Belief/Certainty

While less common for learners, "schwören" can sometimes be used to express extreme conviction. A sentence like "Ich schwöre, das ist die beste Pizza, die ich je gegessen habe!" (I swear, this is the best pizza I've ever eaten!) uses "schwören" for emphasis, similar to "I swear" in English. It's important to note the context to understand if it's a literal oath or an emphatic statement.

Der neue Präsident schwor auf die Verfassung.

The new president swore on the constitution.

Ich schwöre dir, dass ich mein Bestes geben werde.

I swear to you that I will do my best.

Courtrooms and Legal Proceedings

The most common place to encounter "schwören" is in legal contexts. Witnesses are asked to "schwören, die Wahrheit zu sagen" (swear to tell the truth) before giving testimony. Judges and other legal officials may also "schwören" an oath of office. News reports about trials or court cases will frequently use this verb. You might hear phrases like "Der Angeklagte musste schwören" (The defendant had to swear) or "Sie hat geschworen, nichts Falsches zu sagen" (She swore not to say anything false).

Political and Civic Ceremonies

Inaugurations of presidents, prime ministers, and other public figures always involve an oath. Politicians "schwören" their loyalty to the country and its constitution. Military personnel might "schwören" an oath of service. These are formal, public declarations. You'll hear this in speeches, news coverage of inaugurations, and historical documentaries about national events. For example, "Der neue Bürgermeister schwört sein Amt an" (The new mayor is sworn into office).

Religious and Spiritual Contexts

In religious contexts, "schwören" can be used when invoking God or a higher power. People might "schwören bei Gott" (swear by God) to emphasize the sincerity of their statement or promise. This can appear in religious texts, sermons, or discussions about faith and conviction. While less frequent in everyday secular conversation, it's a significant usage in spiritual discourse.

Personal Vows and Promises

In more personal and emotional situations, "schwören" can be used to express a very strong promise between individuals, such as between lovers, close friends, or family members. "Ich schwöre dir, ich werde dich nie verlassen" (I swear to you, I will never leave you) is an example. This usage is often found in literature, films, and dramatic dialogues where deep emotional commitment is being expressed.

Der Richter bat den Zeugen, auf die Bibel zu schwören.

The judge asked the witness to swear on the Bible.

Die Soldaten schworen ihrem Land die Treue.

The soldiers swore allegiance to their country.

Confusing "schwören" with "schwer"

A very common mistake for beginners is confusing the verb "schwören" (to swear) with the adjective "schwer" (heavy, difficult). They sound somewhat similar, but their meanings and grammatical functions are entirely different. For example, saying "Ich schwer die Wahrheit" is incorrect; it should be "Ich schwöre die Wahrheit." Similarly, "Das ist sehr schwer" means "This is very difficult," not "This is very sworn.".

Incorrect Preposition Usage

While "schwören" can be used with various prepositions, learners sometimes misuse them. The most common prepositions are "auf" (on/upon) and "bei" (by). For instance, when swearing an oath on something specific, like a book or a document, "auf" is used: "Ich schwöre auf dieses Buch." When invoking a higher power, "bei" is used: "Ich schwöre bei Gott." Using the wrong preposition can change the meaning or make the sentence grammatically incorrect.

Overuse in Casual Conversation

While "schwören" can be used emphatically in informal English (e.g., "I swear it's true!"), its German counterpart "schwören" is generally reserved for more serious declarations. Using "schwören" casually where a simpler affirmation would suffice can sound overly dramatic or even insincere in German. For everyday emphasis, phrases like "wirklich" (really) or "ganz sicher" (absolutely sure) might be more appropriate.

Incorrect Past Tense/Participle Forms

As an irregular verb, "schwören" has specific past tense (Präteritum) and past participle (Partizip II) forms that learners can easily mix up. The past tense is "schwor" (singular) and "schwuren" (plural), and the past participle is "geschworen." Forgetting to use "geschworen" in the perfect tenses (e.g., saying "Ich habe geschworen" correctly, but perhaps mixing up the stem in other conjugations) is a common error.

Falsch: Ich schwer es!

Incorrect: I swear it!

Richtig: Ich schwöre es!

Correct: I swear it!

"Versprechen" (to promise)

"Versprechen" is a more general term for making a promise. It lacks the solemnity and gravity of "schwören." You "versprechen" to do your homework or "versprechen" to call later. "Schwören" implies a much stronger commitment, often with an oath or a vow.

Comparison: While you can "versprechen" to help someone, you "schwören" eternal loyalty. "Versprechen" is everyday; "schwören" is significant.

"Erzählen" (to tell) / "Sagen" (to say)

These are basic verbs for communication. "Schwören" is used when the statement is backed by a solemn declaration or oath. You "sagen" hello, but you "schwören" the truth in court. The act of "schwören" adds a layer of certainty and commitment that "sagen" or "erzählen" do not possess.

"Beten" (to pray)

While "schwören bei Gott" (swear by God) has a religious connotation, "beten" is the direct act of prayer. You "beten" for guidance, but you "schwören" by God's name as a pledge. They are related in the spiritual realm but distinct in their actions and implications.

"Bezeugen" (to testify)

"Bezeugen" is the act of giving testimony, often in a legal context. Before "bezeugen," a witness typically "schört" to tell the truth. So, "schwören" is the act of making the solemn promise, while "bezeugen" is the act of sharing the information under that promise.

"Geloben" (to vow, to pledge)

"Geloben" is very similar to "schwören" in its sense of making a solemn promise or vow. It can be used in both formal and personal contexts. For example, one might "ein Gelübde ablegen" (make a vow), which is akin to "schwören." The distinction is subtle, with "schwören" often having a slightly stronger, more immediate connotation of an oath.

Er versprach, pünktlich zu sein, aber er schwor, dass er es nie wieder tun würde.

He promised to be on time, but he swore he would never do it again.

Der Zeuge schwor die Wahrheit zu sagen, bevor er bezeugte.

The witness swore to tell the truth before testifying.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The Proto-Germanic root *swar- is also related to the concept of 'saying' or 'speaking'. This connection highlights how oaths are fundamentally verbal declarations that carry significant weight and commitment. Interestingly, it shares roots with the English word 'swear'.

발음 가이드

UK /ʃveːʁən/

US /ʃvɛːrən/

The stress is on the first syllable: SCHWÖ-ren.

라임이 맞는 단어

hören stören geboren erhören zerstören verloren erkoren empören

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing 'sch' as 's' or 'sk'.
Confusing the 'w' sound with the English 'w'.
Not rounding the lips for the 'ö' sound.
Pronouncing the 'r' too hard like an English 'r'.

난이도

독해 3/5

The verb 'schwören' itself is relatively straightforward in its core meaning. However, its usage can become complex with different prepositions ('auf', 'bei') and in idiomatic expressions or formal legal contexts. Understanding the nuance requires attention to context and grammatical structure. Learners might initially confuse it with 'schwer'.

쓰기 3/5

Accurate writing requires correct conjugation of the irregular verb and appropriate use of prepositions and clauses. Avoiding confusion with similar-sounding words like 'schwer' is also important. Overuse in informal contexts should be avoided.

말하기 3/5

Pronunciation of the 'ö' sound and the German 'r' can be challenging. Correctly applying the verb in spoken sentences, especially with prepositions and in formal situations, requires practice.

듣기 3/5

Recognizing 'schwören' in spoken German, particularly in formal settings like news reports or court dramas, is key. Distinguishing it from similar-sounding words and understanding its context is important for comprehension.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

sagen versprechen Wahrheit Ehre Gott Gericht Zeuge

다음에 배울 것

der Eid eidlich geloben bezeugen aufrichtig

고급

falsch lügen aufrichtig sein die Wahrheit sagen einen Eid leisten

알아야 할 문법

The Perfekt tense with 'geschworen'.

Ich habe geschworen, dass ich dir helfen werde. (I have sworn that I will help you.)

Using 'schwören' with prepositions 'auf' and 'bei'.

Er schwört auf seine Intuition. (He swears by his intuition.) Ich schwöre bei Gott. (I swear by God.)

Infinitive clauses with 'zu' after 'schwören'.

Sie schwor, die Wahrheit zu sagen. (She swore to tell the truth.)

Subordinate clauses with 'dass' after 'schwören'.

Er schwor, dass er niemals aufgeben würde. (He swore that he would never give up.)

The Präteritum (simple past) forms of 'schwören'.

Gestern schwor er, dass er es tun würde. (Yesterday he swore that he would do it.)

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

수준별 예문

Ich schwöre.

I swear.

Simple present tense of 'schwören'.

Er schwört.

He swears.

Third person singular, present tense.

Wir schwören.

We swear.

First person plural, present tense.

Sie schwören.

They swear.

Third person plural, present tense.

Ich schwöre es.

I swear it.

Adding a direct object 'es'.

Du schwörst.

You swear.

Second person singular, informal.

Ihr schwört.

You (plural) swear.

Second person plural, informal.

Sie schwören.

You (formal) swear.

Second person plural, formal.

Ich schwöre, ich bin ehrlich.

I swear, I am honest.

Using 'schwören' with a clause.

Er schwört auf sein Leben.

He swears on his life.

'schwören auf' + accusative.

Wir schwören uns Treue.

We swear loyalty to each other.

Reflexive use with 'uns'.

Sie schwörten gestern.

They swore yesterday.

Simple past tense (Präteritum).

Ich habe geschworen.

I have sworn.

Perfect tense (Perfekt).

Du schwörst bei Gott.

You swear by God.

'schwören bei' + dative.

Ihr schwört, dass es wahr ist.

You (plural) swear that it is true.

Clause introduced by 'dass'.

Sie hat es geschworen.

She has sworn it.

Third person singular, perfect tense.

Der Zeuge musste vor Gericht, die Wahrheit zu sagen, schwören.

The witness had to swear to tell the truth in court.

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

Sie schwor ihm ewige Treue.

She swore eternal loyalty to him.

Direct object and indirect object.

Ich schwöre auf mein Ehrenwort, dass ich das Geld zurückzahlen werde.

I swear on my word of honor that I will repay the money.

Idiomatic phrase 'auf mein Ehrenwort'.

Die Soldaten schworen, ihr Land zu verteidigen.

The soldiers swore to defend their country.

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

Er schwor, dass er nie wieder lügen würde.

He swore that he would never lie again.

Subordinate clause with 'dass'.

Wir haben geschworen, uns gegenseitig zu helfen.

We have sworn to help each other.

Perfect tense with an infinitive clause.

Kannst du schwören, dass du es nicht warst?

Can you swear that it wasn't you?

Modal verb 'können' with 'schwören'.

Sie hat bei ihrem Kind geschworen, dass sie die Wahrheit sagt.

She swore by her child that she is telling the truth.

'schwören bei' + dative, with a clause.

Der Premierminister musste auf die Verfassung schwören.

The Prime Minister had to swear on the constitution.

Formal oath of office.

Sie schwor, dass sie niemals aufgeben würde, egal wie schwierig es wurde.

She swore that she would never give up, no matter how difficult it became.

Complex subordinate clause with 'egal wie'.

Ich schwöre bei allem, was mir heilig ist, dass ich die Wahrheit sage.

I swear by all that is holy to me that I am telling the truth.

Emphatic oath with 'bei allem, was mir heilig ist'.

Die beiden Freunde hatten sich geschworen, einander in jeder Lebenslage beizustehen.

The two friends had sworn to stand by each other in every situation in life.

Past perfect tense with an infinitive clause.

Er schwört auf seine Intuition, wenn er wichtige Entscheidungen treffen muss.

He swears by his intuition when he has to make important decisions.

Figurative use of 'schwören auf' (to rely heavily on).

Man hat mir geraten, niemals leichtfertig zu schwören.

I was advised never to swear lightly.

Passive voice with infinitive clause.

Obwohl er es geschworen hatte, zweifelte niemand an seiner Aufrichtigkeit.

Although he had sworn it, nobody doubted his sincerity.

Subordinate clause with 'obwohl' and past perfect.

Sie schwören auf die Qualität dieses Produkts, da es bisher immer gehalten hat.

They swear by the quality of this product, as it has always held up so far.

'schwören auf' to express strong confidence in something.

Er schwur auf sein Gewissen, dass er die Wahrheit sagte, so wahr ihm Gott helfe.

He swore upon his conscience that he was telling the truth, so help him God.

Formal oath with religious blessing.

Die Revolutionäre hatten sich geschworen, bis zum letzten Atemzug für ihre Freiheit zu kämpfen.

The revolutionaries had sworn to fight for their freedom until their last breath.

Past perfect with a strong declaration of intent.

Sie schwor, dass sie sich niemals von ihren Prinzipien abbringen lassen würde, selbst unter größtem Druck.

She swore that she would never let herself be swayed from her principles, even under the greatest pressure.

Complex sentence structure with 'selbst unter'.

Ich schwöre bei allen Sternen am Himmel, dass dies die aufrichtigste Absicht meines Herzens ist.

I swear by all the stars in the sky that this is the most sincere intention of my heart.

Poetic and emphatic oath.

Der alte Mann erzählte, wie er einst geschworen hatte, niemals zurückzublicken.

The old man recounted how he had once sworn never to look back.

Reported speech with past perfect.

Es ist nicht ratsam, leichtfertig zu schwören, da solche Versprechen oft gebrochen werden.

It is not advisable to swear lightly, as such promises are often broken.

General statement about the consequences of swearing.

Die Loyalität, die sie einander schworen, war tiefer als jedes gesprochene Wort.

The loyalty they swore to each other was deeper than any spoken word.

Abstract noun used with 'schwören'.

Sie schwor auf das Wohl ihrer Kinder, dass sie niemals die Wahrheit preisgeben würde.

She swore for the sake of her children's well-being that she would never reveal the truth.

'schwören auf' in the sense of protecting or guaranteeing.

In einer Zeit der Unsicherheit schworen die Bürger auf die Stärke ihrer Gemeinschaft, um die Herausforderungen zu meistern.

In a time of uncertainty, the citizens swore by the strength of their community to overcome the challenges.

Figurative and collective use of 'schwören auf'.

Er hatte sich geschworen, die Fehler seiner Vorväter niemals zu wiederholen, eine Bürde, die ihn sein Leben lang begleitete.

He had sworn never to repeat the mistakes of his forefathers, a burden that accompanied him his entire life.

Past perfect with a strong personal resolve and its long-term impact.

Die Dichterin schwört auf die Macht der Worte, um die Welt zu verändern, selbst wenn sie mit Skepsis empfangen werden.

The poet swears by the power of words to change the world, even when met with skepticism.

Figurative use of 'schwören auf' to express deep belief in an abstract concept.

Sie schwor bei ihrem Ruf als unerschrockene Kämpferin, dass sie die Schwachen verteidigen würde, bis zu ihrem letzten Atemzug.

She swore by her reputation as a fearless fighter that she would defend the weak until her last breath.

Oath invoking reputation and a strong declaration of commitment.

Der Historiker analysierte, wie oft in der Geschichte Einzelpersonen oder ganze Völker auf abstrakte Ideale geschworen hatten.

The historian analyzed how often in history individuals or entire peoples had sworn to abstract ideals.

Analytical discourse on the historical use of 'schwören'.

Es ist eine tiefe Verpflichtung, die man eingeht, wenn man auf seine Prinzipien schwört, eine Verpflichtung, die oft Opfer erfordert.

It is a deep commitment one undertakes when swearing by one's principles, a commitment that often requires sacrifice.

Philosophical reflection on the implications of swearing by principles.

Die Verpflichtung, die sie sich gegenseitig geschworen hatten, war nicht nur ein Wort, sondern eine Lebensweise, die sie formte.

The commitment they had sworn to each other was not just a word, but a way of life that shaped them.

Emphasizing the transformative power of a sworn commitment.

Der Künstler schwört auf die reine Form, um die Essenz seiner Vision auszudrücken, ein Prozess, der unermüdliche Hingabe verlangt.

The artist swears by pure form to express the essence of their vision, a process that demands tireless dedication.

Artistic context, 'schwören auf' to denote absolute reliance on a technique or aesthetic.

자주 쓰는 조합

die Wahrheit schwören

einen Eid schwören

schwören auf etwas

schwören bei Gott

ewige Treue schwören

schwören auf seine Ehre

niemals schwören

geschworen haben

schwören, dass...

bei seinem Leben schwören

자주 쓰는 구문

Ich schwöre!

— This is a direct and emphatic way to say "I swear!" It's used to strongly affirm something.

Ich schwöre! Das ist das beste Essen, das ich je hatte!

Schwörst du?

— This is a question asking if someone is truly serious or making a solemn promise. It translates to "Do you swear?" or "Are you sure?"

Du hast das wirklich gesehen? Schwörst du?

Ich schwöre auf mein Ehrenwort.

— This means "I swear on my word of honor." It's a strong personal pledge of integrity.

Ich schwöre auf mein Ehrenwort, dass ich die Wahrheit sage.

Er hat es geschworen.

— This means "He has sworn it." It refers to a past act of swearing, often implying a significant promise or oath.

Man sagt, er hat es geschworen, aber ich bin mir nicht sicher.

Sie schworen sich ewige Liebe.

— This phrase means "They swore eternal love to each other." It's commonly used in the context of weddings or deep romantic commitments.

Bei ihrer Hochzeit schworen sie sich ewige Liebe.

Schwöre bei Gott!

— This is a strong invocation, meaning "Swear by God!" It's used to emphasize the absolute truthfulness or seriousness of a statement.

Schwöre bei Gott, dass du nichts verraten wirst!

Ich schwöre auf mein Leben.

— This means "I swear on my life." It's an extremely strong affirmation, indicating that the speaker is willing to stake their life on the truth of their statement.

Ich schwöre auf mein Leben, dass er unschuldig ist.

Auf nichts schwören

— This means "to swear on nothing" or "to not swear." It implies a refusal to make a solemn promise or oath, often due to skepticism or a desire to avoid binding oneself.

Ich bin bereit, dir zu helfen, aber ich werde auf nichts schwören, was ich nicht garantieren kann.

Geschworene Wahrheit

— This refers to a truth that has been sworn to, implying it is certain and undeniable. It's a more formal or literary expression.

Vor Gericht gilt nur die geschworene Wahrheit.

Ein Schwur leisten

— This is a formal way to say 'to take an oath' or 'to make a vow'. It's often used in official ceremonies.

Der neue Richter musste einen Eid leisten.

자주 혼동되는 단어

schwören vs schwer

This is a common confusion due to similar pronunciation. 'Schwer' means 'heavy' or 'difficult', whereas 'schwören' means 'to swear'. For example, 'Das ist schwer' (This is difficult) is different from 'Ich schwöre' (I swear).

schwören vs schweren

This is the infinitive form of 'schweren' (to weigh), which is a different verb altogether and not directly related to 'schwören'. However, the '-en' ending can sometimes cause confusion for learners.

schwören vs verspechen

'Versprechen' means 'to promise' and is much less formal and binding than 'schwören'. While both involve making statements about future actions or truths, 'schwören' implies a much stronger commitment, often with an oath.

관용어 및 표현

"Jemandem etwas (hoch und) heilig schwören"

— To swear something (very) holy to someone. This idiom means to make an extremely solemn and binding promise, often implying that the speaker is willing to take an oath on something sacred to them.

Er schwor ihr hoch und heilig, dass er ihr Geheimnis für sich behalten würde. (He swore to her very solemnly that he would keep her secret.)

Formal/Emphatic

"Ich schwöre bei allem, was mir lieb und teuer ist"

— I swear by all that is dear and precious to me. This is an emphatic idiom used to stress the absolute truthfulness or sincerity of a statement, invoking everything the speaker values.

Ich schwöre bei allem, was mir lieb und teuer ist, dass ich die Wahrheit sage und niemandem geschadet habe. (I swear by all that is dear and precious to me that I am telling the truth and have harmed no one.)

Emphatic/Dramatic

"Sein Wort schwören"

— To swear one's word. This means to give one's solemn promise, implying that one's word is as good as an oath. It emphasizes integrity and trustworthiness.

Er ist ein Mann, der sein Wort schwört und es auch hält. (He is a man who swears his word and keeps it.)

Neutral/Emphatic

"Auf Leben und Tod schwören"

— To swear on life and death. This idiom means to make an extremely serious and desperate vow, often indicating a commitment to achieve something at any cost or to defend something with one's life.

Sie schworen auf Leben und Tod, ihre Freiheit zu verteidigen. (They swore on life and death to defend their freedom.)

Dramatic/Intense

"Niemals schwören"

— To never swear. This phrase advises against making oaths or solemn promises lightly, suggesting that such commitments should be reserved for truly significant matters.

Man sollte niemals leichtfertig schwören, denn ein Eid hat Gewicht. (One should never swear lightly, because an oath carries weight.)

Advisory/Cautionary

"Schwören auf die Apostel"

— To swear by the Apostles. This is a more archaic or religious expression, similar to swearing by God, used to add weight to a statement by invoking holy figures.

Er schwur auf die Apostel, dass er nicht an der Tat beteiligt war. (He swore by the Apostles that he was not involved in the deed.)

Archaic/Religious

"Den Eid brechen"

— To break the oath. This is the direct opposite of swearing; it means to fail to uphold a sworn promise or oath, which usually carries serious consequences.

Wenn er den Eid bricht, wird er seinen Posten verlieren. (If he breaks the oath, he will lose his position.)

Legal/Moral

"Schwören, dass die Sonne morgen aufgeht"

— To swear that the sun will rise tomorrow. This is a hyperbolic idiom used to express absolute certainty about something, as the rising of the sun is a universally accepted certainty.

Ich bin mir absolut sicher, dass er uns helfen wird. Ich könnte schwören, dass die Sonne morgen aufgeht! (I am absolutely sure he will help us. I could swear the sun will rise tomorrow!)

Figurative/Emphatic

"Sich (etwas) schwören"

— To swear (something) to oneself. This means to make a private vow or commitment to oneself, often with strong determination.

Nach dem Misserfolg schwor sie sich, härter zu arbeiten. (After the failure, she swore to herself to work harder.)

Personal/Determined

"Schwören auf die Weisheit der Alten"

— To swear by the wisdom of the ancients. This idiom expresses a deep respect for and reliance on the knowledge and experience of past generations.

In seiner Forschung schwört er auf die Weisheit der Alten, um neue Erkenntnisse zu gewinnen. (In his research, he swears by the wisdom of the ancients to gain new insights.)

Figurative/Respectful

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schwören vs schwer

Similar pronunciation.

'Schwören' is a verb meaning 'to swear' or 'to take an oath'. It describes a solemn promise. 'Schwer' is an adjective meaning 'heavy' or 'difficult'. They are distinct in meaning and grammatical function.

Ich schwöre, dass ich pünktlich bin. (I swear that I am on time.) vs. Der Koffer ist sehr schwer. (The suitcase is very heavy.)

schwören vs verspechen

Both relate to making statements about future actions or truths.

'Schwören' implies a strong, often formal, oath or vow with a sense of binding commitment and solemnity. 'Versprechen' is a more general term for making a promise, which can be casual or serious but lacks the gravity of an oath.

Sie schwor, ihre Familie niemals zu verlassen. (She swore never to leave her family.) vs. Er versprach, dass er das Buch zurückbringen würde. (He promised that he would bring the book back.)

schwören vs sagen

Both are verbs related to communication.

'Sagen' simply means 'to say' or 'to tell' and is used for everyday communication. 'Schwören' is specifically about making a solemn declaration or oath, implying absolute truthfulness or a serious commitment.

Ich sage, dass es kalt ist. (I say that it is cold.) vs. Ich schwöre, dass es kalt ist. (I swear that it is cold - implying extreme certainty or a formal declaration.)

schwören vs geloben

Both mean to make a solemn promise or vow.

'Schwören' often implies an oath taken before witnesses or a higher power, particularly in legal or very formal contexts. 'Geloben' can also be used for vows, especially personal or religious ones, and sometimes has a slightly less immediate 'oath-taking' feel than 'schwören'.

Der Mönch schwor Armut. (The monk swore poverty.) vs. Sie gelobte, dem Kloster beizutreten. (She vowed to join the monastery.)

schwören vs bezeugen

Both are related to truth and testimony, especially in legal contexts.

'Schwören' is the act of making the solemn promise to tell the truth. 'Bezeugen' is the act of actually giving testimony or bearing witness based on that sworn promise.

Der Zeuge muss schwören, bevor er bezeugt. (The witness must swear before testifying.)

문장 패턴

Ich schwöre.

Ich schwöre, dass...

Ich schwöre, dass ich ehrlich bin.

Ich schwöre auf...

Ich schwöre auf mein Leben.

Ich schwöre bei...

Ich schwöre bei Gott.

Ich habe geschworen, ... zu...

Ich habe geschworen, dir zu helfen.

Er schwor, dass er...

Er schwor, dass er nie wieder so etwas tun würde.

Sie schworen auf...

Sie schworen auf die Verfassung.

Ich schwöre bei allem, was mir heilig ist, dass...

Ich schwöre bei allem, was mir heilig ist, dass ich die Wahrheit sage.

어휘 가족

명사

der Schwur the oath, the vow

der Schwörer the swearer, one who takes an oath

동사

schwören

사용법

frequency

Moderately frequent, especially in formal contexts and strong declarations.

자주 하는 실수

Confusing 'schwören' with 'schwer'. → Ich schwöre.
'Schwören' means 'to swear', while 'schwer' means 'heavy' or 'difficult'. The pronunciation is similar, but the meanings are completely different. Example: 'Ich schwöre, dass das wahr ist.' (I swear that is true.) vs. 'Das ist schwer zu verstehen.' (That is difficult to understand.)
Using 'schwören' for casual promises. → Ich verspreche, dich anzurufen.
'Schwören' implies a solemn oath or a very strong promise. For everyday promises, 'versprechen' (to promise) is more appropriate. Using 'schwören' casually can sound insincere or overly dramatic.
Incorrect preposition usage ('auf' vs. 'bei'). → Ich schwöre auf mein Ehrenwort.
When swearing on something concrete or relying on something, 'auf' is often used. When invoking a higher power or something sacred, 'bei' is used. Example: 'Ich schwöre auf dieses Buch.' vs. 'Ich schwöre bei Gott.'
Incorrect past participle in perfect tenses. → Ich habe geschworen.
'Schwören' is an irregular verb. The past participle is 'geschworen', not 'geschwört' or another variation. Example: 'Er hat geschworen, dass er helfen wird.'
Using the wrong verb form in a clause. → Er schwor, dass er niemals aufgeben würde.
In subordinate clauses introduced by 'dass', the verb goes to the end. For future actions in the past, the subjunctive II or a modal verb construction might be used, but for a simple statement of what was sworn, the indicative is common. Example: 'Sie schwor, dass sie die Wahrheit sage.' (present tense of what was sworn) or 'Sie schwor, dass sie die Wahrheit sagen würde.' (future in the past).

팁

Master the 'ö' Sound

The German 'ö' sound in 'schwören' is crucial. Practice by saying 'ee' and then rounding your lips as if to say 'oo'. It's a distinct sound that differentiates it from English vowels. Listen to native speakers and mimic their pronunciation.

Preposition Power: 'Auf' vs. 'Bei'

Pay close attention to the prepositions used with 'schwören'. 'Schwören auf' typically means swearing on something concrete or relying on something (e.g., 'auf die Verfassung schwören'). 'Schwören bei' invokes something as a guarantee (e.g., 'bei Gott schwören'). Mastering these will significantly improve your accuracy.

Visualize the Oath

Create a strong mental image associated with 'schwören'. Picture a knight with his hand on a sword, or a judge in a courtroom. This visual anchor can help you recall the word and its meaning, especially during tense or formal situations.

Conjugate and Create

Practice conjugating 'schwören' in all its tenses (present, past, perfect). Then, try to create sentences using different patterns: with 'dass'-clauses, infinitive clauses, and the prepositions 'auf' and 'bei'. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.

Understand the Weight

Recognize that in German culture, like many others, oaths carry significant weight. Breaking a 'Schwur' can severely damage trust and reputation. Understanding this cultural context will help you appreciate the word's importance and use it appropriately.

Avoid 'Schwer' Confusion

Be very careful not to confuse 'schwören' (to swear) with 'schwer' (heavy, difficult). They sound similar but have entirely different meanings and grammatical roles. Always double-check spelling and context.

Explore 'Geloben' and 'Versprechen'

Familiarize yourself with related words like 'geloben' (to vow) and 'verspechen' (to promise). Understanding their nuances will help you choose the most precise word for your intended meaning and level of formality.

Learn from Media

Watch German films, TV shows, or listen to audiobooks. Pay attention to how characters use 'schwören' in different situations – legal, personal, dramatic. This provides authentic examples and helps you grasp the natural flow of the language.

Regular Reinforcement

Periodically review the conjugations, common phrases, and idiomatic uses of 'schwören'. Consistent practice, especially through exercises and real-life application, is key to solidifying this verb in your vocabulary.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a knight kneeling and placing his hand on a sword (Schwert - rhymes with schwören) while making a solemn promise. The sword represents the seriousness and binding nature of the oath he is about to swear.

시각적 연상

Picture a judge in a courtroom, holding up a hand and making a solemn declaration. The solemnity and the formal setting are key to remembering the meaning of 'schwören'.

Word Web

Oath Promise Vow Swear Loyalty Truth Court Formal Solemn Commitment

챌린지

Try to use 'schwören' in three different sentences today: one formal, one personal, and one using 'schwören auf' or 'schwören bei'.

어원

The German verb "schwören" originates from the Old High German word "swuoren" and the Middle High German "swuoren". These words themselves stem from the Proto-Germanic root *swar- or *swōr-.

원래 의미: The original meaning was likely related to speaking, declaring, or affirming, with a strong emphasis on binding oneself through words.

Germanic languages, Indo-European family.

문화적 맥락

When using 'schwören', be mindful of the context. It is a strong word and should not be used casually. In formal settings, especially legal ones, it is a mandatory part of the procedure. In personal contexts, it signifies deep sincerity and commitment.

In English-speaking cultures, 'to swear' also carries the meaning of taking an oath, but it can also refer to using profanity. In German, 'schwören' strictly refers to making a solemn promise or oath, and 'fluchen' or 'schimpfen' is used for profanity. This distinction is important.

The Oath of Hippocrates (Hippokratischer Eid) is a sworn declaration by physicians. The Rütli Oath (Rütlischwur) is a legendary oath taken by the founders of Switzerland. Many national anthems and founding documents include references to oaths of allegiance or founding principles.

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실제 사용 상황

Legal proceedings (courtrooms, police stations)

Ich schwöre, die Wahrheit zu sagen.
Der Zeuge musste schwören.
Er leistete den Amtseid.

Political ceremonies (inaugurations, swearing-in)

Der Präsident schwört auf die Verfassung.
Sie haben den Eid geleistet.
Wir schwören unserem Land die Treue.

Personal vows and promises (weddings, serious commitments)

Ich schwöre dir, dass...
Sie schworen sich ewige Liebe.
Ich schwöre auf mein Ehrenwort.

Religious or spiritual declarations

Ich schwöre bei Gott.
Er schwor bei seinem Glauben.
Bei allem, was mir heilig ist, schwöre ich.

Expressing extreme certainty or conviction

Ich schwöre, das ist wahr!
Ich schwöre auf mein Leben!
Das glaube ich, ich schwöre!

대화 시작하기

"Hast du schon einmal einen Eid geschworen oder jemanden einen Eid schwören hören?"

"In welchen Situationen denkst du, ist es angemessen, zu schwören?"

"Was bedeutet es für dich, jemandem 'ewige Treue' zu schwören?"

"Glaubst du, dass ein geschworenes Wort mehr Gewicht hat als ein einfaches Versprechen?"

"Wenn du etwas ganz sicher weißt, würdest du sagen 'Ich schwöre'?"

일기 주제

Schreibe über eine Situation, in der du ein starkes Versprechen machen musstest. Hättest du in dieser Situation geschworen?

Reflektiere über die Bedeutung von Eiden in der Gesellschaft. Wann sind sie notwendig und wann überflüssig?

Beschreibe eine fiktive Szene, in der eine Figur einen wichtigen Eid schwört. Was sind die Konsequenzen dieses Eides?

Vergleiche das Gefühl, ein einfaches Versprechen zu geben, mit dem Gefühl, einen Eid zu schwören. Welche Unterschiede gibt es?

Schreibe eine kurze Geschichte, in der das Wort 'schwören' eine zentrale Rolle spielt.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

'Schwören' means to swear or take an oath, implying a very serious and binding promise, often in a formal setting or with a strong personal conviction. 'Versprechen' simply means 'to promise' and is used for more general, less formal commitments. For example, you 'versprichst' to call a friend, but you 'schworst' to tell the truth in court.

'Schwören auf' is used when you swear on something specific, like a document or a sacred object (e.g., 'Ich schwöre auf die Verfassung' - I swear on the constitution). It can also be used figuratively to mean relying heavily on something (e.g., 'Er schwört auf seine Intuition' - He swears by his intuition). 'Schwören bei' is used when you invoke something or someone as a guarantee, often a higher power (e.g., 'Ich schwöre bei Gott' - I swear by God).

While 'schwören' is most common in formal contexts like legal proceedings or political ceremonies, it can also be used in personal situations to express a very strong, heartfelt promise (e.g., 'Ich schwöre dir, ich werde dich nie verlassen'). However, its use implies a level of seriousness that is usually reserved for significant commitments. Using it casually might sound overly dramatic.

The verb 'schwören' is irregular. The simple past tense (Präteritum) is 'schwor' (ich schwor, du schwur(e)st, er/sie/es schwor, wir schwuren, ihr schwur(e)t, sie/Sie schwuren). The past participle used in the perfect tenses is 'geschworen' (e.g., 'Ich habe geschworen').

While 'schwören' is not typically used for mundane everyday promises, it can be used for strong emphasis, similar to 'I swear!' in English. For example, 'Ich schwöre, das ist das beste Essen!' (I swear, this is the best food!). However, it's best to use it sparingly in informal settings to avoid sounding insincere or overly dramatic.

The noun form is 'der Schwur', which means 'the oath' or 'the vow'. For example, 'Er leistete einen Eid' (He took an oath) or 'Das war ein heiliger Schwur' (That was a holy vow).

A very common mistake is confusing 'schwören' with 'schwer' (heavy/difficult) due to similar pronunciation. Also, incorrect use of prepositions like 'auf' and 'bei' can lead to errors. Learners might also overuse it in casual conversation where a simpler word would suffice.

This phrase means 'to swear on one's word of honor'. It's a strong personal pledge that emphasizes the speaker's integrity and trustworthiness. It's a way of saying that their word alone is a solemn guarantee.

In German courtrooms, witnesses are usually asked to swear an oath to tell the truth. The common phrase is 'Ich schwöre, die Wahrheit zu sagen.' Sometimes, they might be asked to swear on the Bible or another religious text, using 'schwören auf'.

'Eidlich schwören' is a more formal and explicit way of saying 'to swear an oath'. 'Schwören' can sometimes be used more generally for a strong promise, while 'eidlich schwören' specifically refers to the legal or formal act of taking an oath.

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