abwischen in 30 Seconds
- Abwischen: To wipe a surface clean.
- Commonly used for tables, windows, spills.
- Separable verb: 'ab-' often goes to the end.
- Past participle: abgewischt.
The German verb 'abwischen' is a fundamental word used in everyday situations when referring to the act of cleaning a surface by wiping it. It implies removing dirt, dust, liquid, or other unwanted substances from an object or area using a cloth, sponge, paper towel, or similar implement. It's a practical and common action, so you'll encounter it frequently in various contexts, from household chores to professional cleaning.
- Core Meaning
- To remove something from a surface by rubbing with a cloth or similar material.
- Common Scenarios
- Wiping a table after a meal, cleaning a window, drying hands, removing spills from a countertop, or even wiping sweat from one's brow.
Bitte wischen Sie den Tisch ab, er ist schmutzig.
The verb is separable, meaning the prefix 'ab-' often moves to the end of the sentence in subordinate clauses or in certain conjugations. This is a crucial aspect of German verb grammar to remember. For example, 'Ich wische den Tisch ab' (I wipe the table) becomes '..., weil ich den Tisch abwische' (because I wipe the table), where 'abwische' stays together, but in main clauses with modal verbs, 'ab' separates: 'Ich muss den Tisch abwischen' (I have to wipe the table).
- Nuances
- While 'abwischen' specifically means to wipe something clean, it can also be used metaphorically, for instance, to 'wipe away' tears or doubts, though these uses are less common at a B1 level.
Sie wischte sich die Tränen aus den Augen und versuchte, abzuwischen ihre Sorgen.
Understanding the context is vital. If someone asks you to 'wischen', it could mean to wipe, but it could also mean to mop (wischen with a mop). 'Abwischen' specifically implies a wiping motion to remove something.
- Everyday Application
- In a kitchen, you might hear: 'Der Kaffee ist übergelaufen, bitte wisch das schnell ab!' (The coffee has overflowed, please wipe that up quickly!). At home: 'Nach dem Essen wischen wir den Tisch ab.' (After eating, we wipe the table.)
Können Sie mir bitte ein Tuch geben, damit ich die Fenster abwischen kann?
The verb is commonly used in its past tense forms as well. 'Ich habe den Boden abgewischt' (I have wiped the floor) or 'Sie wischte den Staub vom Regal ab' (She wiped the dust from the shelf).
In summary, 'abwischen' is your go-to verb for the action of wiping something clean. Mastering its conjugation and understanding the separable prefix will significantly improve your fluency in German.
Using 'abwischen' correctly involves understanding its conjugation, the separable prefix, and its typical sentence structures. At the B1 level, you should be comfortable forming simple past, present, and future tense sentences. The separable nature of the verb is a key feature that influences sentence construction.
- Present Tense (Präsens)
- In the present tense, the prefix 'ab-' usually separates and moves to the end of the sentence in main clauses. For example: 'Ich wische den Tisch ab.' (I wipe the table.)
Können Sie bitte die verschüttete Milch abwischen?
- Past Tense (Perfekt)
- In the Perfekt tense, the past participle is 'abgewischt'. The auxiliary verb ('haben' or 'sein') comes in the second position, and the past participle goes to the end. Example: 'Ich habe den Boden abgewischt.' (I have wiped the floor.)
Nach dem Kochen hat er die Arbeitsplatte abgewischt.
- Subordinate Clauses
- In subordinate clauses introduced by conjunctions like 'dass', 'weil', 'obwohl', etc., the conjugated verb (including the prefix) moves to the very end of the clause. Example: 'Ich bin froh, dass du den Tisch abgewischt hast.' (I am glad that you have wiped the table.)
Er sagte, er würde die Fenster abwischen.
- Imperative (Befehl)
- The imperative form is also common, especially in instructions. For the informal 'du' form: 'Wisch das ab!' (Wipe that up!). For the formal 'Sie' form: 'Wischen Sie das ab!' (Wipe that up!).
Kinder, wischt euch die Hände ab!
- With Modal Verbs
- When used with modal verbs (können, müssen, wollen, etc.), the modal verb is conjugated and placed in the second position, while the infinitive of 'abwischen' (with the prefix attached) goes to the end of the sentence. Example: 'Ich muss den Tisch abwischen.' (I must wipe the table.)
Wir sollten die Spuren des Regens von den Fenstern abwischen.
Remember to consider the object you are wiping and use the correct case. For example, 'die Arbeitsplatte' (accusative) or 'den Boden' (accusative).
You will hear 'abwischen' in a multitude of everyday situations, reflecting its practical and common meaning. Its usage spans across domestic settings, public spaces, and even professional environments. Listening for this word in authentic German conversations or media will significantly enhance your understanding and retention.
- Domestic Life
- This is perhaps the most frequent context. You'll hear parents telling children to 'wisch den Tisch ab' (wipe the table), or partners reminding each other to 'die Sauerei abwischen' (wipe up the mess). After cooking, it's common to 'die Arbeitsfläche abwischen' (wipe the work surface). Even drying hands after washing can be described as 'sich die Hände abwischen'.
Mama, ich habe meinen Saft verschüttet, kannst du mir helfen, das abzuwischen?
- Public Spaces and Services
- In restaurants, cafés, and bars, staff will 'die Tische abwischen' (wipe the tables) between customers. Cleaning staff in offices, schools, or hospitals constantly use this verb to describe their work: 'Wir müssen die Böden abwischen' (We have to wipe the floors) or 'Bitte wischen Sie die Armaturen ab' (Please wipe the fixtures). You might also hear it in relation to cleaning windows or other surfaces.
Der Kellner wischte schnell den Fleck vom Tisch ab.
- Automotive Context
- When washing a car, one might 'die Scheiben abwischen' (wipe the windows) or 'das Auto abwischen' (wipe down the car) after rinsing.
Nach dem Regen muss ich die Scheinwerfer abwischen.
- Metaphorical Use (Less Common at B1)
- While less common at a B1 level, you might encounter 'abwischen' used figuratively, for example, to 'wipe away' tears ('Tränen abwischen') or to dismiss something ('etwas abwischen' meaning to brush something aside or dismiss it, though this usage is more idiomatic and might overlap with other verbs).
Er versuchte, die negativen Gedanken von sich abzuwischen.
The verb's separability is often highlighted in instructional contexts, such as cleaning product instructions or tutorials. Observing how native speakers use it in spontaneous conversation is the best way to internalize its meaning and application.
While 'abwischen' is a straightforward verb, learners can make certain common mistakes, primarily related to its separable nature and confusing it with similar verbs. Being aware of these potential pitfalls will help you use the word more accurately.
- Incorrect Prefix Separation
- The most common error is misplacing the prefix 'ab-'. Forgetting to separate it in main clauses or incorrectly separating it in subordinate clauses can lead to ungrammatical sentences. For instance, saying '*Ich wische ab den Tisch*' instead of 'Ich wische den Tisch ab'. Or in a subordinate clause, saying '..., weil ich den Tisch ab wische' instead of '..., weil ich den Tisch abwische'.
Falsch: Ich wische ab die Fenster. Richtig: Ich wische die Fenster ab.
- Confusing with 'wischen' (to mop)
- The verb 'wischen' on its own often implies mopping a floor. While 'abwischen' can sometimes be used for floors, it primarily refers to wiping a surface. Using 'wischen' when you mean to wipe a table or a counter can be imprecise. For example, saying 'Ich wische den Tisch' might be understood as mopping the table, which is unusual. It's better to use 'abwischen' for wiping surfaces other than floors, or to specify 'feucht wischen' (to wipe damply) for floors.
Falsch (wenn Tisch gemeint ist): Ich wische den Tisch. Richtig: Ich wische den Tisch ab.
- Incorrect Past Participle
- Forgetting the 'ge-' in the past participle 'abgewischt' is another common mistake. Saying 'Ich habe den Tisch abwischt' instead of 'Ich habe den Tisch abgewischt'.
Falsch: Ich habe den Boden abwischt. Richtig: Ich habe den Boden abgewischt.
- Using the Wrong Object Case
- Since 'abwischen' takes a direct object, learners might forget to put it in the accusative case. For example, saying 'Ich wische auf dem Tisch ab' instead of 'Ich wische den Tisch ab'.
Falsch: Bitte wischen Sie auf dem Spill ab. Richtig: Bitte wischen Sie den Spill ab.
Being mindful of these common errors, particularly the separable prefix and the distinction between 'wischen' and 'abwischen', will help you achieve greater accuracy and fluency when using this essential German verb.
While 'abwischen' is the most common verb for wiping a surface clean, German offers other verbs that might be used in similar contexts or with slightly different nuances. Understanding these alternatives will enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.
- Wischen (to wipe, to mop)
- As mentioned, 'wischen' on its own often implies mopping a floor. However, it can also mean to wipe in a general sense. The distinction is often contextual. If you say 'Ich wische den Boden', it's understood as mopping. If you say 'Ich wische den Tisch', it's less precise than 'abwischen' and could be ambiguous, though context usually clarifies. 'Abwischen' is generally preferred for wiping surfaces like tables, counters, or windows.
Wir müssen den Teppich wischen (mopping) vs. Wir müssen den Tisch abwischen (wiping).
- Säubern (to clean, to purify)
- 'Säubern' is a more general term for cleaning. It implies making something clean, free from dirt or contamination. While you can 'abwischen' something to 'säubern' it, 'säubern' itself doesn't specify the method. You could säubern a room by vacuuming, dusting, and wiping. 'Abwischen' is a specific action within the broader act of 'säubern'.
Ich habe die Flecken abgewischt, um den Bereich zu säubern.
- Reinigen (to clean, to purify)
- Similar to 'säubern', 'reinigen' is a broad term for cleaning. It often implies a more thorough cleaning process. You can 'reinigen' a car, a house, or a piece of equipment. 'Abwischen' might be a step in the process of 'reinigen'. For instance, you might 'abwischen' the dust before doing a deeper 'Reinigung'.
Nach dem Fest mussten wir die ganze Wohnung reinigen, aber zuerst haben wir die Tische abgewischt.
- Entfernen (to remove)
- 'Entfernen' means to remove something. You remove dirt or a spill by wiping. So, one might say 'Ich habe den Fleck entfernt' (I removed the stain), and the method used to remove it was likely 'abwischen'. It focuses on the result (removal) rather than the action itself.
Er entfernte den Staub von den Büchern, indem er sie mit einem Tuch abwischte.
- Abstauben (to dust)
- 'Abstauben' specifically means to dust something. While dusting is a form of wiping, 'abwischen' is more general and can be used for liquids, dirt, or smudges, not just dust. You might 'abwischen' a table that has coffee rings, but you 'abstauben' a bookshelf.
Ich muss die Möbel abstauben, bevor ich sie abwische.
Mastering the subtle differences between these verbs will allow you to communicate more precisely in German.
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
The verb 'wischen' has been around in German for centuries, evolving from Old High German 'wiskan'. The prefix 'ab-' was added to specify the action of removing something from a surface, distinguishing it from general wiping or mopping.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'a' too long or too short.
- Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.
- Not clearly enunciating the 'sch' sound.
- Pronouncing the final 'en' as a separate syllable instead of a syllabic 'n'.
Difficulty Rating
At B1, readers will encounter 'abwischen' frequently in texts related to daily life, instructions, and simple narratives. Understanding its separable nature is key to comprehension.
Writers at B1 should be able to use 'abwischen' correctly in simple sentences, paying attention to the separable prefix and past participle formation. More complex sentence structures might pose a challenge.
Speakers at B1 can use 'abwischen' in basic conversational contexts, like asking someone to clean or stating their own need to clean. Fluency in forming sentences with the separable prefix is important.
Listeners at B1 should be able to recognize 'abwischen' in spoken German, especially in everyday contexts. Understanding the separable prefix in spoken sentences is crucial for accurate interpretation.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Separable Verbs
'Abwischen' is a separable verb. In main clauses, the prefix 'ab-' separates and moves to the end of the sentence. Example: 'Ich wische den Tisch ab.'
Perfekt Tense with Separable Verbs
The past participle of 'abwischen' is 'abgewischt'. Example: 'Ich habe den Tisch abgewischt.'
Infinitive Clauses with 'zu'
When using 'abwischen' in an infinitive clause with 'zu', the 'zu' is placed between the prefix and the verb stem. Example: 'Ich muss den Tisch abwischen.' (modal verb) vs. 'Es ist wichtig, den Tisch abzuwischen.' (infinitive clause)
Imperative Forms
The imperative forms for 'abwischen' are 'Wisch ab!' (du) and 'Wischen Sie ab!' (Sie).
Word Order in Subordinate Clauses
In subordinate clauses, the conjugated verb (including the prefix) stays together at the end. Example: '..., weil ich den Tisch abwische.'
Examples by Level
Wisch den Tisch ab.
Wipe the table.
Imperative, separable verb.
Ich wische meine Hände ab.
I wipe my hands.
Present tense, separable verb.
Bitte wische den Fleck ab.
Please wipe the stain.
Imperative, separable verb.
Das Fenster ist schmutzig, ich muss es abwischen.
The window is dirty, I have to wipe it.
Infinitive with modal verb, separable verb.
Sie hat die Arbeitsplatte abgewischt.
She has wiped the countertop.
Perfekt tense, past participle.
Wir wischen den Boden.
We wipe the floor.
Present tense, general wiping (could imply mopping).
Kannst du das bitte abwischen?
Can you wipe that, please?
Question with modal verb, separable verb.
Er wischt sich die Nase ab.
He wipes his nose.
Reflexive verb, separable.
Nach dem Essen wischen wir immer den Tisch ab.
After eating, we always wipe the table.
Present tense, separable verb, common routine.
Die Kinder sollen ihre schmutzigen Schuhe abwischen, bevor sie ins Haus kommen.
The children should wipe their dirty shoes before they come into the house.
Modal verb 'sollen', separable infinitive.
Ich habe vergessen, die Fenster abzuschließen, aber ich habe sie abgewischt.
I forgot to lock the windows, but I wiped them.
Perfekt tense, separable verb, past participle.
Wenn etwas verschüttet wird, wische ich es sofort ab.
If something spills, I wipe it up immediately.
Conditional clause, present tense, separable verb.
Können Sie mir ein Tuch geben, um die Tische abzuwischen?
Can you give me a cloth to wipe the tables?
Infinitive with 'um zu', separable verb.
Er wischte sich den Schweiß von der Stirn.
He wiped the sweat from his forehead.
Simple past tense, separable verb.
Bitte wische den Staub von den Regalen ab.
Please wipe the dust from the shelves.
Imperative, separable verb.
Die Kellnerin wischte die Krümel vom Tisch.
The waitress wiped the crumbs from the table.
Simple past tense, separable verb.
Ich muss die Kaffeeflecken von meinem Hemd abwischen, bevor sie eintrocknen.
I need to wipe the coffee stains from my shirt before they dry.
Modal verb, separable infinitive, subordinate clause.
Da das Wetter schlecht war, habe ich die nassen Fußabdrücke im Flur abgewischt.
Since the weather was bad, I wiped up the wet footprints in the hallway.
Perfekt tense, separable verb, subordinate clause with 'da'.
Er hat sich geweigert, die unordentlichen Spuren seiner Kinder im Wohnzimmer abzuwischen.
He refused to wipe up the messy traces of his children in the living room.
Separable infinitive after 'sich weigern', Perfekt tense.
Sobald die Gäste gegangen sind, werden wir die Tische abwischen und die Stühle aufräumen.
As soon as the guests have left, we will wipe the tables and tidy up the chairs.
Future tense, separable verb, subordinate clause with 'sobald'.
Sie wischte sich die verärgerten Tränen ab und versuchte, ruhig zu bleiben.
She wiped away her angry tears and tried to stay calm.
Simple past tense, separable verb, metaphorical use.
Man muss die Oberfläche gründlich abwischen, um alle Bakterien zu entfernen.
One must thoroughly wipe the surface to remove all bacteria.
Modal verb, separable infinitive, purpose clause.
Nachdem er sich die Hände abgewischt hatte, begann er mit der Zubereitung des Essens.
After he had wiped his hands, he began preparing the food.
Plusquamperfekt tense, separable verb, subordinate clause with 'nachdem'.
Es ist wichtig, die Brille regelmäßig abzustauben und sie dann vorsichtig abzuwischen.
It is important to dust the glasses regularly and then carefully wipe them.
Separable infinitive, conjunction 'und'.
Die Reinigungsanweisungen besagen, dass die Oberflächen täglich mit einem speziellen Mittel abgewischt werden müssen.
The cleaning instructions state that the surfaces must be wiped daily with a special agent.
Passive voice, subordinate clause, modal verb.
Er versuchte vergeblich, den hartnäckigen Schmutz von den alten Möbeln abzuwischen.
He tried in vain to wipe the stubborn dirt from the old furniture.
Separable infinitive, adverb 'vergeblich'.
Obwohl die Fenster sauber aussahen, wischte sie sie zur Sicherheit noch einmal ab.
Although the windows looked clean, she wiped them once more just to be sure.
Subordinate clause with 'obwohl', simple past tense, separable verb.
Die Kunstrestauratoren mussten vorsichtig den Staub von dem Gemälde abwischen, ohne die Farbe zu beschädigen.
The art restorers had to carefully wipe the dust from the painting without damaging the paint.
Modal verb, separable infinitive, prepositional phrase with 'ohne'.
Manchmal muss man auch metaphorisch Dinge von sich abwischen, wie Zweifel oder Ängste.
Sometimes one also has to metaphorically wipe things away from oneself, like doubts or fears.
Metaphorical usage, separable infinitive.
Bevor die Maschine wieder in Betrieb genommen werden konnte, musste jeglicher Ölfilm sorgfältig abgewischt werden.
Before the machine could be put back into operation, any oil film had to be carefully wiped off.
Passive voice, separable verb, subordinate clause.
Die Kinder hatten die ganze Nacht über Albträume gehabt und wischten sich tränenüberströmt die Augen ab.
The children had had nightmares all night and wiped their eyes, tear-soaked.
Plusquamperfekt tense, simple past tense, separable verb, participle phrase.
Die Anforderung, dass jeder Mitarbeiter seinen Arbeitsplatz am Ende des Tages abwischt, wurde streng kontrolliert.
The requirement that every employee wipes down their workspace at the end of the day was strictly controlled.
Subordinate clause, passive voice, separable verb.
Die Anweisung, die kontaminierten Oberflächen mit einem Desinfektionsmittel abzuwischen, wurde von allen Laboranten strikt befolgt.
The instruction to wipe the contaminated surfaces with a disinfectant was strictly followed by all lab technicians.
Separable infinitive, passive voice, subordinate clause.
Es ist unerlässlich, dass man jeglichen Rückstand, der sich über Nacht gebildet hat, am Morgen sorgfältig abwischt, um die Hygiene zu gewährleisten.
It is essential that any residue that has formed overnight is carefully wiped away in the morning to ensure hygiene.
Subordinate clause, passive voice, separable infinitive.
Die Restauratoren mussten den Staub von den alten Manuskripten abwischen, wobei sie darauf achteten, die fragilen Seiten nicht zu beschädigen.
The restorers had to wipe the dust from the old manuscripts, taking care not to damage the fragile pages.
Separable infinitive, gerund phrase (wobei + participle).
Manche Menschen neigen dazu, unangenehme Wahrheiten von sich abzuwischen, anstatt sich ihnen zu stellen.
Some people tend to brush aside unpleasant truths instead of confronting them.
Metaphorical usage, separable infinitive.
Die Protokolle sehen vor, dass alle Geräte nach Gebrauch gründlich abgewischt werden, um Kreuzkontaminationen zu vermeiden.
The protocols stipulate that all equipment must be thoroughly wiped down after use to avoid cross-contamination.
Passive voice, separable verb, purpose clause.
Er versuchte, die Erinnerungen an diesen schrecklichen Vorfall von seinem Gemüt abzuwischen, doch sie blieben hartnäckig haften.
He tried to wipe the memories of that terrible incident from his mind, but they stubbornly lingered.
Metaphorical usage, separable infinitive.
Die Anweisung war, dass die Oberfläche so lange abgewischt werden sollte, bis keine Rückstände mehr sichtbar waren.
The instruction was that the surface should be wiped until no more residue was visible.
Subordinate clause, passive voice, modal verb, temporal clause.
Die Kunsthistorikerin erläuterte, wie der Künstler den Staub von den alten Leinwänden abwischte, um die Farben wieder zum Leuchten zu bringen.
The art historian explained how the artist wiped the dust from the old canvases to make the colors shine again.
Subordinate clause, simple past tense, separable verb, purpose clause.
Die komplexe Prozedur zur Dekontamination erforderte, dass die betroffenen Bereiche mehrmals mit spezifischen Lösungen abgewischt wurden, um jegliche chemische Rückstände zu eliminieren.
The complex decontamination procedure required that the affected areas be wiped several times with specific solutions to eliminate any chemical residues.
Passive voice, subordinate clause, separable verb.
Es obliegt dem Reinigungspersonal, die historischen Artefakte mit äußerster Sorgfalt abzuwischen und dabei jegliche Beschädigung zu vermeiden.
It is incumbent upon the cleaning staff to wipe the historical artifacts with utmost care, avoiding any damage.
Separable infinitive, participial construction.
Man kann sich nicht einfach von den Konsequenzen seines Handelns abwischen, sondern muss sich ihnen stellen und Verantwortung übernehmen.
One cannot simply wipe away the consequences of one's actions but must face them and take responsibility.
Metaphorical usage, separable infinitive, conjunction 'sondern'.
Die Anweisung lautete, dass die empfindliche Elektronik nur mit antistatischen Tüchern abgewischt werden durfte, um Kurzschlüsse zu verhindern.
The instruction was that the sensitive electronics could only be wiped with antistatic cloths to prevent short circuits.
Subordinate clause, passive voice, modal verb, purpose clause.
Die Restauratoren mussten den Staub von den antiken Fresken abwischen, wobei sie auf kleinste Farbpartikel achteten, um deren Integrität zu wahren.
The restorers had to wipe the dust from the ancient frescoes, paying attention to the smallest paint particles to preserve their integrity.
Separable infinitive, gerund phrase (wobei + participle).
Es ist eine menschliche Tendenz, belastende Erinnerungen von sich abzuwischen, doch die Psychologie lehrt uns, dass Verdrängung selten eine nachhaltige Lösung darstellt.
It is a human tendency to wipe away distressing memories, but psychology teaches us that repression is rarely a sustainable solution.
Metaphorical usage, separable infinitive, comparative clause.
Die Vorschriften für die sterile Umgebung diktierten, dass alle Oberflächen vor der Operation akribisch abgewischt werden mussten.
The regulations for the sterile environment dictated that all surfaces had to be meticulously wiped down before the operation.
Passive voice, separable verb, subordinate clause.
Der Künstler erklärte, dass er den Ruß von den alten Kupferstichen abwischte, um die feinen Linien wieder sichtbar zu machen und so den Wert des Werkes zu steigern.
The artist explained that he wiped the soot from the old copperplate engravings to make the fine lines visible again and thus increase the value of the work.
Subordinate clause, simple past tense, separable verb, consecutive clause.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— A simple request to clean a surface.
Du hast Saft verschüttet, bitte wisch das ab.
— A polite question asking someone to clean something.
Da ist ein Fleck auf dem Teppich, kannst du das abwischen?
— Stating a need to clean something.
Der Tisch ist klebrig, ich muss das abwischen.
— Asking if something has been cleaned.
Die Küche sieht sauber aus. Hast du das abgewischt?
— Confirming that a surface has been cleaned.
Keine Sorge, wir haben den Tisch abgewischt.
— Indicating that something requires cleaning.
Der Schmutz an der Wand muss abgewischt werden.
— An instruction to dry one's hands.
Du hast dir gerade die Hände gewaschen, wisch dich die Hände ab.
— A general statement that something needs cleaning.
Der Staub auf dem Regal muss abgewischt werden.
— Describing the action of wiping tears from one's eyes.
Nach dem traurigen Film wischte ich mir die Augen ab.
— The act of cleaning the floor by wiping.
Nach dem Kochen musste sie schnell den Boden abwischen.
Often Confused With
'Wischen' on its own can mean to wipe or to mop. 'Abwischen' specifically implies wiping something clean, often removing dirt or liquid. If you say 'Ich wische den Tisch', it might be understood as mopping the table, which is less common than wiping. 'Abwischen' is preferred for surfaces like tables and counters.
'Putzen' generally means to clean, polish, or scrub, often implying a more thorough cleaning than just wiping. You 'putzen' windows or shoes, but you 'abwischen' spills or dust from a table.
These are broader terms for cleaning. 'Abwischen' is a specific method within the process of 'säubern' or 'reinigen'. You might 'abwischen' a surface as part of 'reinigen' the room.
Idioms & Expressions
— To dismiss or disregard something, often an idea or feeling. Similar to 'brushing something off'.
Er versuchte, die Kritik von sich abzuwischen, aber sie traf ihn.
Informal/Figurative— To wipe something off someone (literally, like a smudge), or figuratively to absolve someone of blame or responsibility (less common).
Die Mutter wischte dem Kind den Schokoladenfleck vom Gesicht ab. (Literal) Er konnte sich die Schuld nicht abwischen lassen. (Figurative, less common)
Literal and Figurative— To wipe away tears, often implying trying to regain composure or hide sadness.
Sie wischte sich die Tränen ab und lächelte tapfer.
Figurative/Emotional— Literally to wipe away physical traces, or figuratively to erase evidence or consequences of an action.
Er versuchte, alle Spuren seines Besuchs abzuwischen, aber ein Fußabdruck blieb.
Literal and Figurative— To quickly deal with or resolve something, often a problem or task, in a decisive manner.
Wir müssen diesen dringenden Fall sofort vom Tisch wischen.
Figurative/Business— To wash one's hands of something, to absolve oneself of responsibility or blame. This idiom uses 'waschen' (to wash) but relates to the idea of cleaning oneself of wrongdoing, similar to the figurative sense of 'abwischen'.
Er versuchte, sich in Unschuld zu waschen, aber die Beweise waren erdrückend.
Figurative— Literally to wipe a blackboard or whiteboard clean, often used in an educational context.
Der Lehrer bat einen Schüler, die Tafel abzuwischen.
Educational/Literal— To remove a stain from a surface.
Du hast Rotwein verschüttet, wir müssen den Fleck sofort abwischen.
Practical/Cleaning— Figuratively, to shake off past troubles or responsibilities and move on.
Nach dem Projekt konnte er endlich den Staub von seinen Schultern wischen.
Figurative— Similar to 'abwischen', meaning to wipe something away or off. Often used for more forceful removal.
Er wischte die unerwünschten Kommentare weg.
General/FigurativeEasily Confused
Both verbs relate to cleaning with a wiping motion.
'Abwischen' specifically means to wipe something clean, implying the removal of dirt, liquid, or dust from a surface. 'Wischen' on its own often implies mopping a floor or a more general wiping action. Context is key, but 'abwischen' is more precise for surfaces like tables, counters, or windows.
Ich wische den Boden mit einem Mopp. (I mop the floor.) Ich wische den Tisch ab. (I wipe the table.)
Both are verbs related to cleaning.
'Abwischen' focuses on the action of wiping to remove surface dirt or liquid. 'Putzen' is a more general term for cleaning, often involving scrubbing, polishing, or thorough cleaning. You 'putzen' windows for a streak-free shine, but you 'abwischen' a spill on the windowsill.
Ich putze meine Schuhe. (I clean/polish my shoes.) Ich wische mir die Hände ab. (I wipe my hands.)
Both verbs mean to clean.
'Reinigen' is a broad term for cleaning, implying making something free from dirt, impurities, or unwanted substances. 'Abwischen' describes a specific method of cleaning by wiping. You might 'abwischen' a table as part of 'reinigen' the entire kitchen.
Wir müssen das ganze Auto reinigen. (We have to clean the whole car.) Zuerst wischen wir die Scheiben ab. (First, we wipe the windows.)
Both involve removing something from a surface.
'Abstauben' specifically means to dust, i.e., to remove dust. 'Abwischen' is a more general term for wiping clean and can be used for liquids, dirt, smudges, or dust. You 'abstauben' bookshelves, but you 'abwischen' a sticky countertop.
Ich staube die Bücher ab. (I dust the books.) Ich wische die Krümel vom Tisch ab. (I wipe the crumbs from the table.)
Both involve removing moisture or residue.
'Abtrocknen' specifically means to dry something, usually after washing, like dishes or hands. 'Abwischen' is about removing dirt, spills, or smudges by wiping. While wiping might leave a surface dry, the primary goal of 'abwischen' is cleanliness, not just dryness.
Ich trockne das Geschirr ab. (I dry the dishes.) Ich wische den nassen Tisch ab. (I wipe the wet table.)
Sentence Patterns
Imperative + Object + ab.
Wisch den Tisch ab.
Subject + wische/wischt/wischen + Object + ab.
Ich wische den Tisch ab.
Subject + haben + Object + abgewischt.
Ich habe den Tisch abgewischt.
Subject + modal verb + Object + abwischen.
Ich muss den Tisch abwischen.
Subordinate clause: Conjunction + Subject + Object + abgewischt + haben.
..., weil ich den Tisch abgewischt habe.
Subordinate clause: Conjunction + Subject + Object + abwischen + modal verb.
..., weil ich den Tisch abwischen muss.
Question: Was + wischst/wischen + du/Sie + ab?
Was wischst du ab?
Passive voice: Object + werden + abgewischt.
Der Tisch muss abgewischt werden.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Very High
-
Incorrect prefix placement in main clauses.
→
Ich wische den Tisch ab.
The prefix 'ab-' should separate and move to the end of the sentence in main clauses.
-
Forgetting the 'ge-' in the past participle.
→
Ich habe den Tisch abgewischt.
The past participle of 'abwischen' is 'abgewischt', not 'abwischt'.
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Using 'wischen' instead of 'abwischen' for surfaces like tables.
→
Ich wische den Tisch ab.
'Abwischen' is more specific for wiping surfaces clean. 'Wischen' alone often implies mopping.
-
Incorrect word order in subordinate clauses.
→
..., weil ich den Tisch abwische.
In subordinate clauses, the entire conjugated verb, including the prefix, stays together at the end of the clause.
-
Using the wrong case for the object.
→
Ich wische den Fleck ab.
The object of 'abwischen' is usually in the accusative case (e.g., 'den Tisch', 'die Fenster', 'den Fleck').
Tips
Master the Separable Prefix
The most crucial aspect of 'abwischen' is its separable prefix 'ab-'. Remember that in most main clauses, 'ab-' moves to the end of the sentence. This is key to forming correct German sentences. Practice saying sentences aloud to get a feel for the rhythm.
Emphasize the First Syllable
The stress in 'abwischen' falls on the first syllable: 'AP-wi-schen'. This helps distinguish it from other words and makes your pronunciation clearer. Practice the short 'a' sound and the 'sch' sound.
Real-World Application
Whenever you clean something by wiping it, think of the German word 'abwischen'. Mentally describe your actions in German. For example, 'Ich wische den Küchentisch ab.' This active application is one of the best ways to learn.
Distinguish from 'wischen'
Remember that 'wischen' can mean to mop, while 'abwischen' is specifically for wiping surfaces like tables or windows. Using 'abwischen' for these surfaces is generally more precise.
Past Participle Formation
The past participle is 'abgewischt'. Make sure to include the 'ge-' prefix when forming the Perfekt tense. For example: 'Ich habe die Fenster abgewischt.'
Common Collocations
Familiarize yourself with common phrases like 'den Tisch abwischen', 'die Arbeitsplatte abwischen', and 'sich die Hände abwischen'. These will help you use the verb more naturally in conversation.
Use Mnemonics
Create a memorable image or story. For instance, imagine an 'ape' ('ab') that 'wishes' ('wischen') to clean, so it wipes the table. Visualizing this can help recall the word and its meaning.
Infinitive Clauses
In infinitive clauses with 'zu', the 'zu' is inserted between the prefix and the verb stem: 'abzuwischen'. Example: 'Es ist wichtig, die Flecken abzuwischen.'
Everyday Scenarios
Think about all the times you wipe something in your daily life: after eating, after cooking, cleaning windows, drying hands. Each of these situations is a perfect context for using 'abwischen'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine an 'ape' (ab) that is very clumsy and 'wishes' (wischen) to clean up a mess, so it wipes it away. The ape wipes the table clean.
Visual Association
Picture a large, furry ape carefully wiping a spill off a wooden table with a small cloth. The 'ab' sound can remind you of the ape, and 'wischen' sounds like 'wishes', as if the ape wishes the mess were gone.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'abwischen' in three different sentences describing actions you do around your house today. For example, 'I will abwischen the kitchen counter after breakfast.'
Word Origin
The verb 'abwischen' is a compound of the prefix 'ab-' and the verb 'wischen'. 'Ab-' in German often indicates separation, removal, or completion. 'Wischen' itself has Germanic roots, related to words meaning to move quickly or to sweep.
Original meaning: Literally 'to wipe off' or 'to wipe away'.
GermanicCultural Context
The act of wiping is generally neutral. However, in contexts of hygiene and sanitation, it carries importance. When discussing cleaning in professional settings (e.g., hospitals), the thoroughness implied by 'abwischen' becomes crucial.
In English, we have similar phrases like 'wipe down', 'clean up', or 'mop up'. The German 'abwischen' is more specific to the wiping action itself, similar to 'wipe clean'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Household chores and cleaning.
- den Tisch abwischen
- die Arbeitsplatte abwischen
- den Boden abwischen
- Staub abwischen
Kitchen and dining.
- Flecken abwischen
- verschüttetes abwischen
- nach dem Essen abwischen
Personal hygiene.
- sich die Hände abwischen
- sich die Nase abwischen
- sich die Augen abwischen
Instructions and requests.
- Bitte abwischen!
- Kannst du das abwischen?
- Das muss abgewischt werden.
Describing past actions.
- Ich habe abgewischt.
- Sie wischte ab.
- Wir haben abgewischt.
Conversation Starters
"Was hast du heute schon abgewischt?"
"Wie oft wischst du normalerweise deine Küche ab?"
"Was ist das Schwierigste, das du je abwischen musstest?"
"Gibt es etwas, das du besonders gerne abwischst?"
"Welches Reinigungsmittel benutzt du am liebsten, um Dinge abzuwischen?"
Journal Prompts
Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du etwas schnell abwischen musstest. Was war es und warum musstest du es so schnell tun?
Denke an deine Kindheit. Gab es eine Aufgabe, die du immer abwischen musstest? Wie hast du dich dabei gefühlt?
Stell dir vor, du könntest magisch alles, was du abwischst, sofort verschwinden lassen. Welche drei Dinge würdest du sofort abwischen?
Schreibe über die Bedeutung von Sauberkeit in deinem Zuhause. Welche Rolle spielt das Abwischen in deinem täglichen Leben?
Erkläre einem Freund, der Deutsch lernt, wie man 'abwischen' richtig benutzt. Gib ihm Beispiele und erkläre die Trennbarkeit des Verbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Abwischen' means to wipe a surface clean, removing dirt, dust, or liquid with a cloth or paper. It is a very common verb for everyday cleaning tasks.
Yes, 'abwischen' is a separable verb. The prefix 'ab-' usually separates and moves to the end of the sentence in main clauses. For example: 'Ich wische den Tisch ab.'
The past participle of 'abwischen' is 'abgewischt'. Example: 'Ich habe den Tisch abgewischt.'
'Wischen' can mean to wipe or to mop. 'Abwischen' is more specific and usually refers to wiping a surface like a table, counter, or window to make it clean. 'Wischen' is often used for mopping floors.
Yes, 'abwischen' can be used figuratively, for example, to 'wipe away' tears ('Tränen abwischen') or to dismiss something ('etwas von sich abwischen'). However, at a B1 level, the literal meaning is most important.
The object of 'abwischen' typically takes the accusative case, as it is the direct recipient of the action. For example: 'Ich wische den Tisch ab.'
The prefix 'ab-' stays with the verb in subordinate clauses (e.g., '..., weil ich den Tisch abwische.') and in infinitive constructions with 'zu' (e.g., 'den Tisch abzuwischen').
Common phrases include 'den Tisch abwischen', 'die Fenster abwischen', 'sich die Hände abwischen', and 'Bitte wisch das ab.'
While it can be used for floors, 'wischen' is more commonly used for mopping floors. 'Abwischen' is generally preferred for surfaces like tables, counters, or windows.
Practice forming sentences in different tenses and structures, paying close attention to the prefix 'ab-'. Use it in real-life situations when cleaning, or role-play scenarios.
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Summary
The verb 'abwischen' is essential for describing the action of wiping surfaces clean. Remember its separable nature, with 'ab-' typically moving to the end of the sentence in main clauses. Its past participle is 'abgewischt'. Example: 'Ich wische den Tisch ab.' (I wipe the table.)
- Abwischen: To wipe a surface clean.
- Commonly used for tables, windows, spills.
- Separable verb: 'ab-' often goes to the end.
- Past participle: abgewischt.
Master the Separable Prefix
The most crucial aspect of 'abwischen' is its separable prefix 'ab-'. Remember that in most main clauses, 'ab-' moves to the end of the sentence. This is key to forming correct German sentences. Practice saying sentences aloud to get a feel for the rhythm.
Context is Key
While 'abwischen' means to wipe clean, pay attention to the object being wiped. Whether it's a table, a window, or a spill, understanding the context will help you use the verb more accurately and naturally.
Emphasize the First Syllable
The stress in 'abwischen' falls on the first syllable: 'AP-wi-schen'. This helps distinguish it from other words and makes your pronunciation clearer. Practice the short 'a' sound and the 'sch' sound.
Real-World Application
Whenever you clean something by wiping it, think of the German word 'abwischen'. Mentally describe your actions in German. For example, 'Ich wische den Küchentisch ab.' This active application is one of the best ways to learn.
Related Content
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abdecken
B1to clear a table after a meal; to uncover
abdichten
B1To make something waterproof or airtight.
Abfalleimer
B1a container for holding waste materials
Abfluss
B1drain
abgenutzt
B1worn out, used
abhängen
B1To take something down from where it is hanging.
Ablesen
B1To read (meter), to obtain a reading from a meter.
abreißen
B1to demolish
abstauben
B1To remove dust from a surface.
Abstellraum
B1Storage room, a room used for storing items.
