Leistung zeigen
To show performance
Literally: {"Leistung":"Performance \/ Achievement \/ Output","zeigen":"to show \/ to display"}
In 15 Seconds
- Demonstrate skills and results when it matters.
- Implies effort and visible accomplishment.
- Used in professional, academic, and sports contexts.
- Focuses on proving your capabilities effectively.
Meaning
Think of `Leistung zeigen` as really stepping up and proving your worth. It’s not just about being good at something; it’s about making sure everyone notices how good you are when it matters most. There's a definite vibe of accomplishment and sometimes pressure here – you’ve got to deliver!
Key Examples
3 of 10Job interview via Zoom
Ich bin überzeugt, dass ich in dieser Rolle meine volle Leistung zeigen kann.
I am convinced that I can show my full performance in this role.
Team meeting about a project
Wir müssen diese Woche wirklich Leistung zeigen, um den Kunden zufriedenzustellen.
We really need to show performance this week to satisfy the client.
Friend talking about their studies
Die Prüfungen sind nächste Woche, ich muss jetzt endlich mal Leistung zeigen.
The exams are next week, I really need to show performance now.
Cultural Background
The concept of demonstrating one's capabilities, or 'showing one's performance,' is deeply ingrained in German culture, particularly in its emphasis on diligence, efficiency, and measurable results (Ordnung und Leistung). This phrase likely evolved from a societal value placed on tangible contributions and verifiable skills, especially prominent during Germany's industrialization and its strong educational and vocational training systems. It reflects a culture that appreciates clear evidence of competence.
It's About Visibility
Remember, `Leistung zeigen` isn't just about doing well; it's about making sure your good work is *seen* and recognized. Think of it as performance art for your career!
Connect Effort to Outcome
Use this phrase when you can link past effort (like studying or training) directly to a required demonstration of skill or results. It bridges the gap between hard work and visible success.
In 15 Seconds
- Demonstrate skills and results when it matters.
- Implies effort and visible accomplishment.
- Used in professional, academic, and sports contexts.
- Focuses on proving your capabilities effectively.
What It Means
Leistung zeigen is all about proving your capabilities. It means you’re actively demonstrating what you can do. This usually happens under observation or when a specific outcome is expected. It’s more than just working; it’s about showcasing results. It implies effort and a successful outcome. You’re not just present; you’re contributing effectively.
How To Use It
Use Leistung zeigen when someone needs to impress or meet expectations. It fits well in academic, professional, and even sports contexts. You might say a student needs to Leistung zeigen in their final exams. A team might need to Leistung zeigen in the championship game. It’s about a visible display of competence. The key is that the performance is noticeable and significant. It’s not for everyday, minor tasks. Think of big projects or crucial moments. It’s a powerful way to describe success.
Real-Life Examples
- In a job interview, you might say: "Ich bin bereit, in dieser Position meine volle
Leistung zu zeigen." (I am ready to show my full performance in this position.) - A coach might tell their team: "Wir müssen heute
Leistung zeigen, um zu gewinnen!" (We need to show performance today to win!) - On a school report card, a teacher might write: "Das Kind kann
Leistung zeigen, wenn es motiviert ist." (The child can show performance when motivated.) - In a business meeting, discussing a project deadline: "Unser Team hat unter Druck
Leistung gezeigt." (Our team showed performance under pressure.)
When To Use It
This phrase is perfect for situations where results are important. Use it when you want to highlight someone’s successful effort. It’s ideal for performance reviews or academic assessments. Sports competitions are another great context. Think about situations where you need to impress. It applies when you’ve overcome challenges. It’s also good when discussing potential or actual success. Use it when you want to sound professional and precise. It adds weight to the idea of accomplishment. It’s not just doing something; it’s doing it well.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid Leistung zeigen for very casual or everyday activities. Don't use it for simple tasks like making coffee or walking the dog. It sounds too formal and intense for those. It’s also not suitable for personal feelings or relationships. You wouldn't say "Ich möchte dir meine Liebe zeigen." (I want to show you my love.) That’s a different kind of showing! Using it inappropriately makes you sound stiff. It can also sound arrogant if overused. Stick to contexts where actual performance is being evaluated. It’s not for expressing emotions. It’s about tangible results and skills. Don't use it for something trivial; save it for when it counts!
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes mix up Leistung with other words. They might try to say Arbeit zeigen (show work) or Fähigkeit zeigen (show ability). While related, these aren't quite the same. Arbeit zeigen is more about the process or the physical output. Fähigkeit zeigen is just about demonstrating a skill, not necessarily the full performance or achievement. The phrase Leistung zeigen encapsulates the *result* of that work and ability. It's the complete package. It's like saying "show my homework" versus "show my A+ on the homework." One is the task, the other is the success.
- ✗ Ich möchte meine Arbeit zeigen. → ✓ Ich möchte meine Leistung zeigen.
- ✗ Er zeigte seine Fähigkeit. → ✓ Er zeigte Leistung.
- ✗ Sie hat viel Arbeit gezeigt. → ✓ Sie hat viel Leistung gezeigt.
Similar Expressions
Erfolg haben: To be successful. This focuses more on the outcome than the act of showing it. You can have success without actively demonstrating it to others.Sich beweisen: To prove oneself. This is very close, often implying a need to overcome doubt or a challenge. It’s more personal thanLeistung zeigen.Gute Arbeit leisten: To do good work. This emphasizes the quality of the work itself, but not necessarily the *display* of that quality.Auftrumpfen: To impress, to put on a show, often with a flourish. This can be a bit more flashy thanLeistung zeigen.
Common Variations
Eine gute Leistung zeigen: To show good performance.Eine herausragende Leistung zeigen: To show outstanding performance.Spitzenleistung zeigen: To show top performance.Gehobene Leistung zeigen: To show elevated/high-level performance.Konstante Leistung zeigen: To show consistent performance.Leistung erbringen: To deliver performance. This is very similar, often used in more formal contexts.
Memory Trick
Imagine a Leiste (a shelf or bar) where you zeigen (show) your Leistung (achievements). You put your trophies on the shelf to show everyone how well you did! Think of a shelf full of medals – that’s Leistung zeigen!
Quick FAQ
- Q: Is
Leistung zeigenalways about work?
A: Mostly, yes. It’s about demonstrating competence, skills, or results, typically in a professional, academic, or competitive setting. It’s about what you can *do* and achieve.
- Q: Can I use it for hobbies?
A: Sometimes! If your hobby involves a competition or a judged event, like playing a musical instrument in a concert, you could say you want to Leistung zeigen there. It’s about the performance aspect.
- Q: Does it always mean success?
A: It implies the *attempt* to perform well and demonstrate capability. While often associated with success, you can also talk about someone *trying* to Leistung zeigen, even if the result isn't perfect. The focus is on the demonstration.
Usage Notes
This phrase is generally neutral in formality but carries a weight of expectation. It's best used when discussing demonstrable results in professional, academic, or competitive contexts. Avoid using it for trivial matters, as it can sound overly serious or even pretentious.
It's About Visibility
Remember, `Leistung zeigen` isn't just about doing well; it's about making sure your good work is *seen* and recognized. Think of it as performance art for your career!
Connect Effort to Outcome
Use this phrase when you can link past effort (like studying or training) directly to a required demonstration of skill or results. It bridges the gap between hard work and visible success.
Avoid Sounding Arrogant!
Don't overuse `Leistung zeigen` for minor things. Saying 'Ich muss heute Abend Leistung zeigen, um den Müll rauszubringen' sounds ridiculous. Save it for when it truly matters!
The German Appreciation for Proof
In German culture, backing up claims with evidence is valued. `Leistung zeigen` taps into this by emphasizing the need to *demonstrate* your abilities rather than just stating you have them.
Examples
10Ich bin überzeugt, dass ich in dieser Rolle meine volle Leistung zeigen kann.
I am convinced that I can show my full performance in this role.
Here, the applicant is assuring the interviewer of their capability and potential contribution.
Wir müssen diese Woche wirklich Leistung zeigen, um den Kunden zufriedenzustellen.
We really need to show performance this week to satisfy the client.
Emphasizes the need for the team to work hard and deliver results under a deadline.
Die Prüfungen sind nächste Woche, ich muss jetzt endlich mal Leistung zeigen.
The exams are next week, I really need to show performance now.
Expresses the personal pressure to perform well academically.
Nach hartem Training war es Zeit, auf dem Feld Leistung zu zeigen! ⚽️ #Fußball #Sieg
After hard training, it was time to show performance on the field! ⚽️ #Football #Victory
Connects the effort (training) with the visible result (performance on the field).
Hey Leute, lasst uns heute Abend nochmal zusammen lernen. Wir müssen morgen Leistung zeigen!
Hey guys, let's study together again tonight. We need to show performance tomorrow!
A motivational message to friends before a significant academic event.
Herr Müller hat im letzten Quartal konstant gute Leistung gezeigt.
Mr. Müller has consistently shown good performance in the last quarter.
Used in a formal setting to acknowledge an employee's consistent output.
✗ Ich muss im Praktikum meine Arbeit zeigen. → ✓ Ich muss im Praktikum meine Leistung zeigen.
✗ I need to show my work during the internship. → ✓ I need to show my performance during the internship.
Using 'Arbeit' focuses too much on the task itself, not the quality or impact of the performance.
✗ Der Künstler zeigte seine Fähigkeit. → ✓ Der Künstler zeigte seine Fähigkeiten / Er zeigte eine tolle Leistung.
✗ The artist showed his ability. → ✓ The artist showed his abilities / He showed great performance.
'Fähigkeit' is too narrow; 'Leistung zeigen' implies a broader demonstration of skill and achievement in action.
Mein Kuchen ist zwar nicht perfekt, aber ich habe definitiv Leistung gezeigt!
My cake isn't perfect, but I definitely showed performance!
Slightly ironic use, implying a significant effort was made, even if the result is questionable.
Du hast so hart trainiert. Jetzt ist es Zeit, deine ganze Leistung zu zeigen!
You've trained so hard. Now it's time to show all your performance!
An emotional boost, reminding someone of their potential and encouraging them to give their best.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of the phrase.
`Leistung zeigen` fits best here as it refers to demonstrating academic capability and achieving a good result in a crucial test.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.
Which sentence correctly uses `Leistung zeigen`?
The phrase is used correctly in a professional context, referring to expected work output and quality.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The sentence is actually correct. The phrase `Leistung zeigen` is used appropriately here to describe a notable achievement.
Fill in the blank with the most suitable phrase.
While `Leistung zeigen` is related, `sich beweisen` (to prove oneself) is a more fitting idiom in this context of needing to establish one's worth for a promotion.
Translate the sentence into German.
This translation correctly uses the phrase `Leistung zeigen` to convey the idea of performing well in a critical situation.
Choose the correct option.
Which option best translates 'to perform well' in a formal context?
`Leistung zeigen` specifically refers to demonstrating competence and achieving results, fitting a formal context better than the other options.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
The original sentence incorrectly uses 'Arbeit gezeigt' and implies a lack of performance. The corrected version uses `Leistung gezeigt` appropriately for the second part and `Arbeit geleistet` for the first, clarifying the distinction.
Fill in the blank.
While 'zeigen' (show) is possible, `Leistung zeigen` is stronger here, implying she demonstrated her talent through a notable performance.
Translate the sentence into German.
This translation uses the formal 'Sie' and the standard phrase `gute Leistung zeigen` to express expectations in a professional setting.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly in a nuanced way.
Which sentence best captures the meaning of 'Leistung zeigen'?
This option correctly links `Leistung zeigen` to a specific goal (passing an exam), implying competence and effort are needed for success.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
While 'Arbeit' means work, `Leistung` is the correct term for 'performance' or 'achievement' in this context, especially when referring to quality or results.
Fill in the blank.
The phrase is `Spitzenleistung zeigen`, meaning to show top performance. 'zeigen' completes the idiom perfectly.
🎉 Score: /12
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of 'Leistung zeigen'
Rarely used in very casual chats, sounds too serious.
Wir müssen heute Abend Leistung zeigen!
Common in everyday conversations about work, studies, or sports.
Ich muss für die Prüfung wirklich Leistung zeigen.
Appropriate for professional settings, reports, and official evaluations.
Der Mitarbeiter hat konstant gute Leistung gezeigt.
Can be used, but more formal alternatives like 'Leistung erbringen' might sometimes be preferred.
Es wird erwartet, dass Sie Spitzenleistung zeigen.
Where You'll Hear 'Leistung zeigen'
Job Interview
Ich bin bereit, meine Leistung zu zeigen.
University Exam
Du musst jetzt Leistung zeigen!
Sports Match
Das Team muss Leistung zeigen.
Work Project Deadline
Wir haben unter Druck Leistung gezeigt.
Performance Review
Er hat gute Leistung gezeigt.
Talent Show
Sie will Leistung zeigen.
'Leistung zeigen' vs. Similar Phrases
Contexts for 'Leistung zeigen'
Professional
- • Job interviews
- • Performance reviews
- • Project deadlines
Academic
- • Exams
- • Presentations
- • Thesis defense
Sports/Competition
- • Final matches
- • Olympic games
- • Talent shows
Personal Development
- • Overcoming challenges
- • Demonstrating potential
- • Achieving goals
Practice Bank
12 exercisesDer Student muss in der Abschlussprüfung richtig ___.
`Leistung zeigen` fits best here as it refers to demonstrating academic capability and achieving a good result in a crucial test.
Which sentence correctly uses `Leistung zeigen`?
The phrase is used correctly in a professional context, referring to expected work output and quality.
Find and fix the mistake:
Sie hat gestern eine tolle Leistung gezeigt, als sie das Projekt beendete.
The sentence is actually correct. The phrase `Leistung zeigen` is used appropriately here to describe a notable achievement.
Um die Beförderung zu bekommen, musste er sich in den letzten Monaten besonders ___.
While `Leistung zeigen` is related, `sich beweisen` (to prove oneself) is a more fitting idiom in this context of needing to establish one's worth for a promotion.
The team needs to show performance in the final match.
Hints: Team = Das Team, needs to = muss, final match = letztes Spiel
This translation correctly uses the phrase `Leistung zeigen` to convey the idea of performing well in a critical situation.
Which option best translates 'to perform well' in a formal context?
`Leistung zeigen` specifically refers to demonstrating competence and achieving results, fitting a formal context better than the other options.
Find and fix the mistake:
Er hat viel Arbeit gezeigt, aber keine Leistung.
The original sentence incorrectly uses 'Arbeit gezeigt' and implies a lack of performance. The corrected version uses `Leistung gezeigt` appropriately for the second part and `Arbeit geleistet` for the first, clarifying the distinction.
Die Künstlerin konnte ihr Talent auf der Bühne gut ___.
While 'zeigen' (show) is possible, `Leistung zeigen` is stronger here, implying she demonstrated her talent through a notable performance.
We expect you to show good performance in this project.
Hints: We expect = Wir erwarten, you (formal) = Sie, good performance = gute Leistung
This translation uses the formal 'Sie' and the standard phrase `gute Leistung zeigen` to express expectations in a professional setting.
Which sentence best captures the meaning of 'Leistung zeigen'?
This option correctly links `Leistung zeigen` to a specific goal (passing an exam), implying competence and effort are needed for success.
Find and fix the mistake:
Er zeigte seine gute Arbeit.
While 'Arbeit' means work, `Leistung` is the correct term for 'performance' or 'achievement' in this context, especially when referring to quality or results.
Der Athlet muss bei den Olympischen Spielen Spitzenleistung ___.
The phrase is `Spitzenleistung zeigen`, meaning to show top performance. 'zeigen' completes the idiom perfectly.
🎉 Score: /12
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
20 questionsLiterally, Leistung means performance or achievement, and zeigen means to show. So, it translates to 'to show performance' or 'to show achievement'. It implies actively demonstrating your capabilities and results.
Use it when you need to impress or meet expectations in a significant context, like job interviews, exams, sports competitions, or important project deadlines. It's about proving your worth when it counts.
It's quite versatile and falls mostly into the neutral category. It can be used in both formal professional settings and more casual conversations about achievements, though it always implies a certain level of seriousness.
Generally, no. It sounds too strong and formal for simple, everyday activities like cooking dinner or tidying up. You'd reserve it for situations where your skills or the quality of your output are being evaluated or are particularly important.
Leistung zeigen focuses on the act of demonstrating your abilities and the effort involved, often implying success. Erfolg haben (to be successful) simply states that you achieved a positive outcome, regardless of how visibly you demonstrated your skills.
Sich beweisen (to prove oneself) often implies overcoming doubt or a challenge, perhaps when your abilities are questioned. Leistung zeigen is more about actively showcasing your competence, often in a more neutral or expected situation.
Yes, it can be used humorously or sarcastically, especially if the 'performance' wasn't actually that great, but a lot of effort was put in. For example, 'Mein Kuchen ist angebrannt, aber ich habe definitiv Leistung gezeigt!' adds a funny twist.
A common mistake is confusing it with Arbeit zeigen (show work) or Fähigkeit zeigen (show ability). Leistung encompasses the result and quality of the work/ability, making it a more comprehensive term for successful demonstration.
Yes, Leistung erbringen is a very similar phrase, often considered slightly more formal or technical, commonly used in official reports or academic contexts. Both are correct, but erbringen can sound a bit more 'official'.
This means 'He is capable of showing performance' or 'He has the ability to perform well'. It suggests potential and competence, implying that under the right circumstances, he will deliver good results.
Not necessarily. While often used in competitive contexts like sports, it can also apply to situations without direct rivals, such as academic exams or professional projects where you need to demonstrate your skills to superiors or clients.
You would typically use Spitzenleistung zeigen. Spitzenleistung means 'top performance' or 'peak performance', and combining it with zeigen effectively conveys the idea of performing at your absolute best.
You could say keine Leistung gezeigt (showed no performance) or eine schwache Leistung gezeigt (showed a weak performance). You might also use phrases like enttäuscht (disappointed) or die Erwartungen nicht erfüllt (did not meet expectations).
Yes, absolutely! In online gaming, especially in competitive modes, players often talk about needing to Leistung zeigen to win matches, climb ranks, or contribute effectively to their team's success. It fits perfectly.
Yes, Leistung can refer to physical output, like the amount of work a machine produces or the physical exertion of an athlete. Leistung zeigen in this context means demonstrating that physical capability or output effectively.
Etwas leisten means 'to achieve something' or 'to accomplish something'. It focuses on the achievement itself. Leistung zeigen is more about the *demonstration* of that achievement or capability, often in front of others.
In a cover letter, you might write: 'Ich bin zuversichtlich, dass ich meine Fähigkeiten und meine Leistung in dieser Position unter Beweis stellen kann.' (I am confident that I can demonstrate my skills and performance in this position.)
Not inherently. The phrase itself is neutral. However, constantly talking about needing to Leistung zeigen could imply pressure or a lack of confidence, depending on the context and tone.
For a simple 'I did a good job', you could say Ich habe gute Arbeit geleistet or Ich habe das gut gemacht. Leistung zeigen is usually reserved for situations where the performance is more significant or needs to be actively demonstrated.
Yes, it can. For example, an artist might Leistung zeigen in an exhibition, or a writer might Leistung zeigen with a published novel. It emphasizes the successful execution and impact of the creative output.
Related Phrases
sich beweisen
related topicTo prove oneself
Both phrases involve demonstrating capability, but `sich beweisen` often implies overcoming doubt or a specific challenge to prove your worth.
Erfolg haben
related topicTo be successful
`Leistung zeigen` often leads to `Erfolg haben`, but the focus is different: one is the act of demonstrating, the other is the positive outcome achieved.
Gute Arbeit leisten
related topicTo do good work
This phrase focuses on the quality of the work itself, whereas `Leistung zeigen` emphasizes the visible demonstration and impact of that work.
etwas leisten
related topicTo achieve something
`Etwas leisten` refers to the accomplishment itself, while `Leistung zeigen` is about actively showcasing that accomplishment or the capability behind it.
Auftrumpfen
related topicTo impress, to put on a show
While both involve showing capability, `Auftrumpfen` often suggests a more flashy or dramatic display meant to impress, whereas `Leistung zeigen` is more about solid, demonstrable results.
Leistung erbringen
synonymTo deliver performance
This phrase is a very close synonym, often used in more formal or technical contexts, emphasizing the delivery of a certain standard of performance.
