Meaning
To memorize something perfectly, so it can be recited.
Cultural Background
Reciting poems (Gedichte aufsagen) is a traditional part of German education. Students often learn works by Schiller or Goethe 'auswendig'. In the 'Land of Music', performing 'auswendig' is seen as a sign of true mastery and emotional connection to the piece. The term 'Bulimie-Lernen' is a common critique of the modern school system, where students memorize facts just for the test.
Use 'kennen' for results
If you already know it, say 'Ich kenne es auswendig'. If you are still working on it, use 'lernen'.
No 'Herz'!
Never say 'bei Herz' or 'mit Herz'. It sounds very strange to Germans.
Meaning
To memorize something perfectly, so it can be recited.
Use 'kennen' for results
If you already know it, say 'Ich kenne es auswendig'. If you are still working on it, use 'lernen'.
No 'Herz'!
Never say 'bei Herz' or 'mit Herz'. It sounds very strange to Germans.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing part of the phrase.
Ich muss {die|f} Vokabeln ______ lernen.
'auswendig' is the only correct adverb for memorization in German.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the correct word order.
In a simple main clause, the verb is in second position and 'auswendig' goes to the end.
Match the German phrase to its English meaning.
Match the following:
Lernen is the process, können is the result.
In which situation do you 'auswendig lernen'?
Select the best context.
Tests often require rote memorization of words.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIch muss {die|f} Vokabeln ______ lernen.
'auswendig' is the only correct adverb for memorization in German.
Choose the correct word order.
In a simple main clause, the verb is in second position and 'auswendig' goes to the end.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Lernen is the process, können is the result.
Select the best context.
Tests often require rote memorization of words.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt is an adverb in this context, describing *how* you learn.
No, you don't 'learn a person auswendig'. You might 'know someone's habits auswendig', but not the person themselves.
Related Phrases
aus dem Effeff
similarTo know something perfectly/blindly
sich einprägen
synonymTo imprint something on one's mind
pauken
informalTo cram
