In 15 Seconds
- Means 'in the long run' or 'over time'.
- Focuses on sustainability and permanence.
- Used for long-term plans and effects.
- Versatile across formal and informal contexts.
Meaning
This German phrase captures the idea of something happening or being sustainable over an extended period. It's not just about the future, but about whether something will last or be effective when time passes. Think of it as evaluating the endurance or permanence of a situation, habit, or plan.
Key Examples
3 of 12Texting a friend about a new workout plan
Glaubst du, dieses intensive Training funktioniert `auf Dauer`?
Do you think this intensive training works in the long run?
Discussing a business strategy in a meeting
Wir müssen sicherstellen, dass diese Strategie auch `auf Dauer` tragfähig ist.
We need to ensure that this strategy is also viable in the long run.
Instagram caption for a travel photo
Dieser Ausblick ist wunderschön, aber ich frage mich, ob ich hier `auf Dauer` leben könnte.
This view is beautiful, but I wonder if I could live here in the long run.
Cultural Background
The phrase `auf Dauer` likely emerged from a cultural appreciation for thoroughness and long-term planning, common in German-speaking countries. It reflects a mindset that values stability and considers the enduring consequences of actions. It's not just about immediate success, but about building something that lasts, whether it's a business, a relationship, or a personal habit. This emphasis on durability and foresight is deeply ingrained.
Think 'Endurance Test'
Whenever you see or use `auf Dauer`, mentally picture something undergoing a long endurance test. Will it pass? That's the core question.
Pair with Negatives for Impact
Saying something is *not* `auf Dauer` is very common and impactful. 'Das hält `auf Dauer` nicht!' (That won't last in the long run!) is a powerful statement.
In 15 Seconds
- Means 'in the long run' or 'over time'.
- Focuses on sustainability and permanence.
- Used for long-term plans and effects.
- Versatile across formal and informal contexts.
What It Means
This phrase, auf Dauer, is your go-to for talking about the long-term effects or sustainability of something. It’s like asking, 'Will this work out over time?' or 'Is this a permanent solution?' It carries a sense of looking beyond the immediate future to assess endurance. It’s not just a prediction; it’s an evaluation of how something holds up against the test of time. You might use it to question if a diet will stick or if a business strategy is sound for years to come. It’s a thoughtful way to consider longevity.
How To Use It
You use auf Dauer when you're discussing whether something is sustainable, permanent, or will have lasting consequences. It often appears in questions about feasibility or in statements assessing stability. Think about situations where you need to consider the future implications of a current action or state. It's about the marathon, not the sprint. You'll often see it paired with verbs like gehen (to work/go), sein (to be), or funktionieren (to function). It’s a versatile phrase for any long-term contemplation.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine someone starting a new, super strict diet. You might ask, 'Does this diet work auf Dauer?' Or a company might analyze if its marketing campaign is effective auf Dauer. A relationship counselor might discuss if a certain conflict resolution style is healthy auf Dauer. Even a gamer might wonder if a particular strategy is viable auf Dauer in a competitive online game. It’s everywhere you look when thinking about lasting impact. You could even use it to describe a catchy song: 'This song is stuck in my head auf Dauer!' (Okay, maybe not *that* permanent, but you get the idea!)
When To Use It
Use auf Dauer when you're talking about things that need to last or have long-term effects. This includes habits, plans, relationships, health regimes, economic trends, or even the durability of a product. If you’re assessing if something is a good idea for the long haul, this phrase fits perfectly. It's great for expressing doubt or confidence about future outcomes. It’s also useful when discussing sustainability in any context, from environmental issues to personal well-being. It’s your phrase for when ‘forever’ is the operative word, or at least a very, very long time.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use auf Dauer for short-term plans or immediate results. If you're talking about something that will happen tomorrow or next week, you need a different phrase. It’s also not for describing fleeting moments or temporary situations. Think of it this way: if you can achieve it with a quick burst of effort, auf Dauer probably isn't the right fit. It’s also generally not used for very dramatic, irreversible events, unless you're discussing the *consequences* of those events over time. So, avoid it for saying 'I'll be right back' – unless you plan on being gone for a *very* long time!
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse auf Dauer with phrases that mean 'in the moment' or 'temporarily'. They might also try to translate it too literally, leading to awkward phrasing. The biggest pitfall is using it for something that is clearly temporary. Forgetting the 'duration' aspect is key here. It’s like trying to use a sledgehammer to crack a nut – sometimes the tool is just too much for the job. Another mistake is trying to use it with verbs that don't fit the long-term meaning. Remember, it’s about endurance!
- ✗
für eine Weile→ ✓auf Dauer(when you mean 'permanently' not 'for a while') - ✗
jetzt sofort→ ✓auf Dauer(when discussing long-term impact, not immediate action) - ✗
kurzfristig→ ✓auf Dauer(for the opposite meaning: short-term vs long-term)
Similar Expressions
There are other ways to talk about the long run in German, but they often carry slightly different nuances. Langfristig is a very common and direct synonym, meaning 'long-term'. Auf lange Sicht also means 'in the long run' and is quite similar. Für immer means 'forever', which is more absolute than auf Dauer. Beständig means 'constant' or 'stable', focusing on the unchanging nature. Nachhaltig means 'sustainable', often used in ecological or economic contexts. Each has its place, but auf Dauer has a certain idiomatic feel.
Common Variations
While auf Dauer is the standard, you might sometimes hear slight variations or related phrases. For instance, auf Dauer nicht is a common way to say something won't work in the long run. You could also say auf Dauer gesehen (seen in the long run). Sometimes, depending on the context, people might use dauerhaft (permanently, durably) as an adjective or adverb. Think of it as the adjective form of the idea behind auf Dauer. It’s like the difference between saying 'it works long-term' and 'it's a long-term solution'.
Memory Trick
Imagine a DUDE wearing DURAGS AUF his head, looking DAUERhaft bored because he has to wait AUF the DURATion of his very long nap. He’s stuck AUF Dauer! The image of the durag on the dude’s head, combined with the idea of a long duration, should help you remember auf Dauer means 'in the long run' or 'permanently'. The 'auf' sounds a bit like 'off' (as in, off for a long time), and 'Dauer' sounds like 'duration'.
Quick FAQ
- Q: Is
auf Daueralways about permanence? A: Not always absolute permanence, but it strongly implies a very long, possibly indefinite, period. It's about sustainability over time. - Q: Can I use it in casual chats? A: Yes, it's quite versatile and works in both formal and informal settings, though its meaning leans towards serious consideration.
- Q: Does it have a negative connotation? A: Not inherently. It can be used to express concern (e.g., 'this won't work
auf Dauer') or to describe something positive (e.g., 'this solution is goodauf Dauer').
Usage Notes
This phrase is generally neutral in formality and widely applicable. Be mindful not to use it for short-term situations, as that's its primary pitfall. It emphasizes sustainability and endurance, so think about whether the context truly requires a long-term perspective.
Think 'Endurance Test'
Whenever you see or use `auf Dauer`, mentally picture something undergoing a long endurance test. Will it pass? That's the core question.
Pair with Negatives for Impact
Saying something is *not* `auf Dauer` is very common and impactful. 'Das hält `auf Dauer` nicht!' (That won't last in the long run!) is a powerful statement.
Avoid Short-Term Confusion!
The biggest trap is using `auf Dauer` for things that are clearly temporary. If it's just for tomorrow, use `morgen` or `kurzfristig`, not `auf Dauer` – unless you want to sound like you're planning a permanent stay!
German Foresight
This phrase reflects a cultural tendency in German-speaking areas to value planning and long-term stability. It’s not just about the future; it’s about building something that *endures*.
Examples
12Glaubst du, dieses intensive Training funktioniert `auf Dauer`?
Do you think this intensive training works in the long run?
Here, it questions the sustainability of the workout plan.
Wir müssen sicherstellen, dass diese Strategie auch `auf Dauer` tragfähig ist.
We need to ensure that this strategy is also viable in the long run.
Emphasizes the need for long-term viability.
Dieser Ausblick ist wunderschön, aber ich frage mich, ob ich hier `auf Dauer` leben könnte.
This view is beautiful, but I wonder if I could live here in the long run.
Expresses contemplation about long-term residency.
Wie sehen Sie Ihre berufliche Entwicklung bei uns `auf Dauer`?
How do you see your professional development with us in the long run?
A common question about long-term career prospects.
Ich liebe ihn, aber ich bin mir nicht sicher, ob das `auf Dauer` gut geht.
I love him, but I'm not sure if this will work out in the long run.
Expresses doubt about the long-term future of a relationship.
Sieht cool aus, aber ob das `auf Dauer` hält? 🤔
Looks cool, but will it last in the long run? 🤔
A common, slightly skeptical comment on the durability of a DIY project.
Mein Hund schläft den ganzen Tag. Das macht er wohl `auf Dauer`.
My dog sleeps all day. He'll probably do that in the long run.
A lighthearted comment about a pet's established habit.
Die Erderwärmung wird `auf Dauer` gravierende Folgen haben.
Global warming will have serious consequences in the long run.
Highlights the long-term, severe effects of an issue.
✗ Ich brauche das nur `auf Dauer` für die Party.
✗ I only need this in the long run for the party.
Incorrect use; 'auf Dauer' implies long-term, not immediate need.
✓ Ich brauche das nur `für die Party`.
✓ I only need this for the party.
The phrase 'auf Dauer' is unnecessary and incorrect here.
✗ Er ist `auf Dauer` nett.
✗ He is on duration nice.
Incorrect; 'auf Dauer' doesn't simply mean 'very' or 'always'. It needs context of time/sustainability.
✓ Er ist `immer` nett.
✓ He is always nice.
Or, if the intent was long-term: 'Er ist `langfristig` nett' (though this is a bit odd). 'Immer' is the better fit for 'always'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
`Auf Dauer` fits best here, meaning 'in the long run' or 'for much longer'.
Choose the sentence that uses 'auf Dauer' correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
The phrase `auf Dauer` implies a long period, making it suitable for project success but not for short durations like two hours or immediate decisions.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
This sentence is actually correct! The phrase `auf Dauer` is used appropriately to question long-term suitability.
Translate this sentence into German.
`Auf Dauer` is key for expressing the 'in the long run' aspect.
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
`Auf Dauer` means 'in the long run' or 'permanently', fitting the context of enduring a strict diet.
Choose the sentence that uses 'auf Dauer' correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This sentence correctly uses `auf Dauer` to indicate a long-term intention to exercise more.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The phrase `auf Dauer` is used correctly here to discuss the software's long-term performance.
Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.
This sentence means 'That won't work in the long run'.
Translate this sentence into German.
This translation emphasizes the lasting impact of the consequences.
Choose the sentence that uses 'auf Dauer' correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This sentence correctly uses `auf Dauer` to signify a decision with long-term implications.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The phrase `auf Dauer` is used correctly here to assess the long-term health implications of an activity.
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
`Auf Dauer` correctly conveys that the situation is not sustainable in the long run.
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum for 'auf Dauer'
Rarely used in very casual slang contexts.
This won't last.
Common in everyday conversations among friends.
Glaubst du, das hält `auf Dauer`?
Standard usage in most situations, including media and general discussion.
Die Maßnahme ist `auf Dauer` nicht tragbar.
Used in professional settings, reports, and serious discussions.
Wir müssen die langfristigen Auswirkungen `auf Dauer` bewerten.
Less common, but possible in highly academic or legal contexts.
Die Verpflichtung besteht `auf Dauer`.
Where You'll Hear 'auf Dauer'
Discussing career plans
Ist das der richtige Job `auf Dauer`?
Evaluating health habits
Ist diese Diät `auf Dauer` gesund?
Assessing business strategies
Wird die Firma `auf Dauer` bestehen?
Relationship advice
Kann diese Beziehung `auf Dauer` funktionieren?
Product reviews
Hält dieses Material `auf Dauer`?
Environmental discussions
Sind diese Maßnahmen `auf Dauer` wirksam?
'auf Dauer' vs. Similar Phrases
Usage Categories for 'auf Dauer'
Sustainability
- • Environmental impact
- • Economic viability
- • Personal habits
Durability
- • Product lifespan
- • Material strength
- • Infrastructure
Long-Term Planning
- • Career goals
- • Strategic decisions
- • Relationship future
Questioning Permanence
- • Will it last?
- • Is it sustainable?
- • What are the long-term effects?
Practice Bank
12 exercisesDieses alte Auto wird nicht mehr lange ___ funktionieren.
`Auf Dauer` fits best here, meaning 'in the long run' or 'for much longer'.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
The phrase `auf Dauer` implies a long period, making it suitable for project success but not for short durations like two hours or immediate decisions.
Find and fix the mistake:
Mein neuer Job gefällt mir, aber ich bin unsicher, ob er `auf Dauer` das Richtige ist.
This sentence is actually correct! The phrase `auf Dauer` is used appropriately to question long-term suitability.
Can this relationship survive in the long run?
Hints: Think about 'to survive' or 'to last'., Use `auf Dauer` for 'in the long run'.
`Auf Dauer` is key for expressing the 'in the long run' aspect.
Diese Diät ist zu streng, sie ist nicht ___ durchzuhalten.
`Auf Dauer` means 'in the long run' or 'permanently', fitting the context of enduring a strict diet.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This sentence correctly uses `auf Dauer` to indicate a long-term intention to exercise more.
Find and fix the mistake:
Die neue Software ist gut, aber `auf Dauer` wird sie zu langsam sein.
The phrase `auf Dauer` is used correctly here to discuss the software's long-term performance.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
Click words above to build the sentence
This sentence means 'That won't work in the long run'.
We must think about the long-term consequences.
Hints: 'Consequences' is 'Konsequenzen'., Use `auf Dauer` for 'long-term'.
This translation emphasizes the lasting impact of the consequences.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
This sentence correctly uses `auf Dauer` to signify a decision with long-term implications.
Find and fix the mistake:
Obwohl es jetzt Spaß macht, ist das `auf Dauer` nicht gesund.
The phrase `auf Dauer` is used correctly here to assess the long-term health implications of an activity.
Die aktuelle Situation ist nicht ___ haltbar.
`Auf Dauer` correctly conveys that the situation is not sustainable in the long run.
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
20 questionsLiterally, 'auf Dauer' translates to 'on duration'. 'Auf' means 'on', and 'Dauer' means 'duration'. So, it's like saying 'on duration', which hints at the concept of something lasting for a period of time.
It's quite versatile! You can use auf Dauer in both formal and informal settings. It sounds natural in a casual chat with friends, but it's also perfectly acceptable in professional emails or discussions about long-term business strategies.
'Langfristig' (long-term) is often a direct synonym and can be used interchangeably. However, auf Dauer sometimes carries a slightly stronger connotation of sustainability or endurance, questioning if something will *continue* to work or exist over time.
Yes, it can imply permanence, especially when used in the negative ('nicht auf Dauer'). It suggests that something is not sustainable indefinitely. Think of it as meaning 'for the long haul' rather than just 'for a while'.
The most direct opposites would be phrases indicating short-term or immediate situations. Examples include kurzfristig (short-term), vorübergehend (temporary), or sofort (immediately). Using these shows you understand the time scale contrast.
Primarily, yes. It's about how something will fare over an extended period, looking ahead. However, you might sometimes use it to describe a habit that has *become* permanent through long duration, like 'Er isst jetzt auf Dauer nur noch vegan' (He now eats only vegan in the long run / permanently).
It's quite common! You'll hear it frequently in everyday conversations, news reports, and discussions. It's a staple phrase for talking about anything that needs to endure or has lasting effects.
Generally, yes, but it makes the most sense with verbs related to functioning, lasting, being sustainable, or continuing. Verbs like funktionieren (to work), halten (to hold/last), bestehen (to exist/endure), or gehen (to go/work out) pair naturally with it.
A frequent mistake is using it for very short, defined periods. For instance, saying 'Ich brauche das auf Dauer für eine Stunde' is incorrect because auf Dauer implies a long, often indefinite, duration, not just sixty minutes.
While the core meaning remains consistent across German-speaking regions, auf lange Sicht might be slightly more prevalent in some areas. However, auf Dauer is universally understood and widely used.
Think of 'duration'. The German word Dauer directly relates to duration. So, auf Dauer means 'on duration', emphasizing how long something lasts or continues.
Not inherently. It's a neutral term used to assess sustainability. It can be used in negative contexts (e.g., 'This situation is unsustainable auf Dauer') or positive ones ('This solution will work auf Dauer').
Auf Dauer is an adverbial phrase meaning 'in the long run' or 'over time'. Dauerhaft is an adjective or adverb meaning 'durable', 'lasting', or 'permanent'. They are closely related conceptually but function differently grammatically.
Absolutely! You can discuss the long-term viability of abstract concepts like peace treaties (Friedensvertrag), economic policies (Wirtschaftspolitik), or even happiness (Glück). The phrase is versatile enough for both concrete and abstract ideas.
In most cases, they are interchangeable. If you want to emphasize the aspect of 'will it keep working?' or 'will it hold up?', auf Dauer might feel slightly more fitting. If you're just stating a long-term plan, langfristig works perfectly well.
Questions often probe sustainability or permanence. Common forms include: 'Funktioniert das auf Dauer?' (Will that work in the long run?), 'Ist das auf Dauer gesund?' (Is that healthy in the long run?), or 'Kann das auf Dauer so bleiben?' (Can it stay like this in the long run?).
German culture often values planning, reliability, and thoroughness. Phrases like auf Dauer reflect this mindset, prioritizing stability and considering the lasting impact of decisions, whether in business, engineering, or personal life.
Yes, it can! For example, if someone is doing something slightly annoying but consistently, you might jokingly say, 'Das machst du jetzt auf Dauer so?' (Are you going to do that like this in the long run?). The humor comes from applying a serious phrase to a trivial situation.
Yes, auf Dauer can appear in legal documents to describe conditions or obligations that are intended to last indefinitely or for a very long time. It signifies a commitment beyond a temporary period.
Try discussing hypothetical scenarios: 'If you won the lottery, would you quit your job auf Dauer?' or 'Do you think social media will exist auf Dauer?' Writing short paragraphs about long-term plans or the durability of objects can also help.
Related Phrases
langfristig
synonymlong-term
Both phrases refer to a period extending far into the future, often used interchangeably for planning and consequences.
auf lange Sicht
synonymin the long view / in the long run
This phrase is very similar in meaning to 'auf Dauer', focusing on the perspective of time and future outcomes.
für immer
related topicforever
While 'auf Dauer' implies a very long time, 'für immer' signifies absolute eternity, making it a more extreme concept on the same spectrum.
kurzfristig
antonymshort-term
This phrase represents the direct opposite temporal scope, focusing on immediate needs rather than long-term sustainability.
nachhaltig
related topicsustainable
'Nachhaltig' is often used when discussing environmental or economic contexts where 'auf Dauer' might assess the feasibility.
dauerhaft
related topicdurable, permanent
This adjective/adverb is derived from the same root as 'Dauer' and describes something that lasts, aligning with the concept of 'auf Dauer'.
vorübergehend
antonymtemporary
This word describes situations that are not permanent, contrasting directly with the long-term focus implied by 'auf Dauer'.
