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das Schwimmbecken

A2 noun #6,000 most common 9 min read

das Schwimmbecken

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips das Schwimmbecken in 30 Seconds

Explanation das Schwimmbecken in your Level:

At the A1 level, you learn basic nouns to describe your surroundings. 'Das Schwimmbecken' is a compound word that you might encounter when talking about hobbies or holidays. You should focus on its gender (das) and the basic phrase 'im Schwimmbecken' (in the pool). At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar; just recognize the word and know that it means the place where you swim. You might use it in simple sentences like 'Das Schwimmbecken ist groß' (The pool is big) or 'Ich sehe das Schwimmbecken' (I see the pool). It's important to start associating the neuter article 'das' with the word early on to build a strong foundation for future learning.

At the A2 level, you begin to use prepositions of place and movement. This is where 'das Schwimmbecken' becomes very useful for practicing 'Wechselpräpositionen' (two-way prepositions). You will learn the difference between 'in das Schwimmbecken springen' (jumping into the pool - movement, accusative) and 'im Schwimmbecken schwimmen' (swimming in the pool - location, dative). You also start to learn more specific nouns related to leisure activities. You might describe your weekend: 'Am Samstag war ich im Schwimmbad und bin viel im Schwimmbecken geschwommen.' This level also introduces simple compound words, so you can understand that 'Schwimm-' + 'becken' literally means 'swimming basin'.

At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more detailed descriptions and everyday situations in German-speaking countries. You might need to talk about the facilities at a hotel or a local sports club. You will use 'Schwimmbecken' in more complex sentences, perhaps using relative clauses: 'Das Schwimmbecken, das wir gestern besucht haben, war leider sehr kalt.' You also learn to differentiate between various types of basins, such as 'das Kinderbecken' or 'das Außenbecken'. Your vocabulary expands to include related concepts like 'Chlor' (chlorine), 'Wassertemperatur', and 'Bademeister' (lifeguard). You can discuss the pros and cons of public pools versus swimming in natural waters.

At the B2 level, your language becomes more formal and precise. You might read articles about urban development or health, where 'das Schwimmbecken' appears in a more technical context. You could discuss the environmental impact of heating large 'Schwimmbecken' or the architectural trends in modern 'Hallenbäder'. You will use the word in more sophisticated grammatical structures, such as passive voice or subjunctive II: 'Es wäre besser, wenn das Schwimmbecken öfter gereinigt würde.' You are also expected to understand the nuance between 'Schwimmbecken' and 'Pool', using the latter primarily in informal, private contexts and the former for more official or descriptive purposes.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of German vocabulary and can use 'das Schwimmbecken' in nuanced ways. You might encounter the word in literature or high-level journalism, where it could be used metaphorically or as part of a detailed atmospheric description. You understand the historical and cultural significance of 'Schwimmbecken' in German social history, such as the role of 'Volksbäder' (peoples' baths). You can discuss complex topics like the 'Sanierungsstau' (renovation backlog) of public swimming basins in German municipalities. Your use of the word is flawless, including correct case endings and sophisticated compound constructions like 'Edelstahlschwimmbeckenkonstruktion'.

At the C2 level, you have near-native proficiency. You can use 'das Schwimmbecken' in any context, from technical engineering discussions about 'Beckenhydraulik' to poetic descriptions of water and light. You are aware of regional variations and the most subtle register shifts. You might analyze the word's usage in legal texts regarding safety regulations (e.g., DIN EN 15288 for swimming pools). You can effortlessly switch between 'Schwimmbecken', 'Bassin', and 'Pool' to achieve specific stylistic effects. Your understanding of the word is integrated into a vast web of cultural, historical, and technical knowledge, allowing you to use it with the same precision and flair as a highly educated native speaker.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

das Schwimmbecken in 30 Seconds

Das Schwimmbecken refers to the physical basin of a swimming pool.
It is a neuter noun (das) and its plural form is identical (die Schwimmbecken).
It is a compound of 'Schwimm' (swim) and 'Becken' (basin/tank).
Distinguish it from 'Schwimmbad', which refers to the entire facility.

The German noun das Schwimmbecken specifically refers to the physical basin or container that holds water for swimming. While English speakers often use the word 'pool' to refer to both the entire facility (the building, the locker rooms, and the water) and the specific water-filled area, German makes a clear linguistic distinction. When you are talking about the structure itself—the tiled walls, the deep end, or the concrete hole in the ground—you use Schwimmbecken. If you are referring to the entire complex where you go to swim, you would typically use das Schwimmbad or das Freibad.

Physicality: It describes the architectural and engineering component. In a technical context, an architect designs the Schwimmbecken, not the 'swimming'.
Precise Contexts: Used when discussing maintenance, dimensions (e.g., 50-meter-Becken), or specific safety rules regarding the water's edge.

Das Schwimmbecken wird im Winter geleert, um Frostschäden zu vermeiden.

In everyday life, you encounter this word most often at public swimming facilities. You might see signs indicating the depth of the Schwimmbecken or instructions on how to enter the water. It is a compound noun consisting of 'Schwimm' (from schwimmen, to swim) and 'Becken' (basin, bowl, or pelvis). This logical construction is typical of German, where objects are named by their function and form. The word carries a neutral, descriptive tone. It is neither overly formal nor slangy, though in very casual conversation, Germans might simply use the English loanword 'der Pool', especially when referring to a private pool in a backyard.

Historically, the concept of the Schwimmbecken in Germany evolved with the public health movements of the 19th century. As cities grew, natural swimming spots in rivers became polluted or dangerous, leading to the construction of artificial basins. These early basins were often monumental structures, reflecting a civic pride in hygiene and physical fitness. Today, Germany has a very high density of public Schwimmbecken, ranging from small local pools to massive Olympic-sized facilities. Understanding this word helps you navigate the specific rules of these places, such as which Becken is for swimmers and which is for non-swimmers (Nichtschwimmerbecken).

Kinder dürfen nicht ohne Aufsicht in das große Schwimmbecken.

Using das Schwimmbecken correctly requires attention to German's case system and the use of two-way prepositions (Wechselpräpositionen). Because a swimming pool is a physical space, you will frequently use the preposition in. If you are moving into the pool (action/direction), you use the accusative case. If you are already inside the pool (location), you use the dative case.

Accusative (Direction): "Ich springe in das Schwimmbecken." (I jump into the pool). Here, 'das' remains 'das' in the accusative neuter.
Dative (Location): "Ich schwimme im Schwimmbecken." (I am swimming in the pool). 'Im' is a contraction of 'in dem'.

Das Wasser im Schwimmbecken ist heute besonders blau.

Beyond simple location, the word is often modified by adjectives to describe the type of pool. Common descriptors include beheizt (heated), überdacht (covered/indoor), or olympisch (Olympic). In a sentence, these adjectives must agree with the neuter gender of Becken. For example: "Wir haben ein beheiztes Schwimmbecken im Garten." (We have a heated swimming pool in the garden). Note that the indefinite article 'ein' and the adjective ending '-es' reflect the neuter nominative/accusative case.

You will also find the word used in compound constructions. In German, you can stack nouns to be more specific. If you are talking about the edge of the pool, it is the Schwimmbeckenrand. If you are talking about the lighting inside the pool, it is the Schwimmbeckenbeleuchtung. These long words might look intimidating, but they follow a clear logic: the main noun (Becken) is at the end, and the modifiers precede it. When using these in sentences, remember that the gender of the entire compound is determined by the last word. For instance, der Rand is masculine, so der Schwimmbeckenrand is also masculine.

Bitte rennen Sie nicht am Schwimmbeckenrand.

In Germany, swimming is a deeply ingrained cultural activity. From a young age, children are taken to the Schwimmbad to earn their 'Seepferdchen' (Seahorse) badge. In this context, you will hear the word Schwimmbecken used by instructors and lifeguards. They might shout, "Alle Kinder aus dem Becken!" (All children out of the pool!) when a lesson is over or if there is a safety concern. The word 'Becken' is often used as a shorthand for 'Schwimmbecken' in these environments because the context makes it clear what is being discussed.

Public Announcements: "Das große Schwimmbecken ist wegen einer Reinigung vorübergehend gesperrt." (The large pool is temporarily closed for cleaning.)
Hotel Descriptions: "Unser Hotel verfügt über ein luxuriöses Schwimmbecken im Wellnessbereich." (Our hotel features a luxurious swimming pool in the spa area.)

Wie tief ist das Schwimmbecken an der tiefsten Stelle?

You will also hear this word in technical or commercial settings. If you go to a hardware store (Baumarkt) like OBI or Bauhaus, you might find a section for 'Schwimmbecken und Zubehör' (Swimming pools and accessories). Here, the word refers to the inflatable or steel-walled pools people set up in their gardens. In real estate listings, a house with a 'Schwimmbecken' is often a selling point, highlighting a certain level of luxury. In sports commentary, during the Olympics or European Championships, commentators will refer to the 'Wettkampfbecken' (competition pool) to describe where the athletes are performing.

Finally, the word appears in news reports or documentaries about urban planning or water conservation. If a city is building a new 'Hallenbad' (indoor pool), the dimensions and features of the Schwimmbecken will be discussed in detail in the local newspaper. You might read about the 'Edelstahlbecken' (stainless steel pool), which is a modern trend in German pool construction because it is durable and easy to clean. Hearing the word in these varied contexts—from a lifeguard's whistle to a technical architectural discussion—demonstrates its versatility and essential role in the German vocabulary of leisure and infrastructure.

Das neue Schwimmbecken ist aus hochwertigem Edelstahl gefertigt.

One of the most frequent mistakes English learners make is confusing das Schwimmbecken with das Schwimmbad. In English, 'pool' is a catch-all term. You might say, "I'm going to the pool," and then, once there, say, "I'm jumping into the pool." In German, these are two different concepts. If you say, "Ich springe in das Schwimmbad," you are technically saying you are jumping into the entire building, which sounds quite strange! Always use Schwimmbecken or Becken when you mean the actual water-filled container.

Gender Errors: Learners often think 'Becken' is masculine because it ends in '-en'. However, it is neuter: das Schwimmbecken. Avoid saying 'der Schwimmbecken'.
Plural Confusion: Since the singular and plural forms are identical (das Becken / die Becken), learners sometimes try to add an '-er' or '-e' to the end. Remember: 'die Schwimmbecken' is correct.

Mistake: Ich schwimme im Schwimmbad (when meaning the water).
Correct: Ich schwimme im Schwimmbecken.

Another common error involves the misuse of prepositions. Because Schwimmbecken is a three-dimensional container, you must use in. Some learners try to use an (at/on) or auf (on top of). While you can stand am Schwimmbecken (at the edge of the pool), you cannot swim am or auf it. Furthermore, don't forget the contraction im (in + dem). Saying "Ich bin in dem Schwimmbecken" is grammatically correct but sounds unnatural in spoken German compared to the smoother "Ich bin im Schwimmbecken."

Lastly, learners often overlook the compound nature of the word. If you are describing a specific kind of pool, don't use 'von' (of). Instead of saying "Das Becken von Schwimmen," you must use the compound Schwimmbecken. German loves compounds, and using them correctly is a hallmark of moving from a beginner to an intermediate level. If you're talking about a children's pool, it's a Kinderbecken. If it's for diving, it's a Sprungbecken. Mastering these compounds will make your German sound much more authentic and precise.

Das Schwimmbecken ist nur für Schwimmer gedacht; das Nichtschwimmerbecken ist dort drüben.

While das Schwimmbecken is the standard term, several alternatives exist depending on the context and the level of formality. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the right word for the right situation. The most common alternative you will hear in modern Germany is der Pool. This loanword from English is ubiquitous, especially when referring to private pools at home or in holiday villas. However, in official documents or public facility signs, Schwimmbecken remains the gold standard.

Der Pool: More casual, often used for private or hotel pools. Masculine gender (der Pool).
Das Bassin: A more old-fashioned or elevated term, often used for decorative basins or older public baths. Neuter gender (das Bassin).
Das Wasserbecken: A generic term for any water basin, not necessarily for swimming (e.g., a reflecting pool or a basin in a park).

Wir haben einen kleinen Pool im Garten aufgebaut, aber das Schwimmbecken im Verein ist viel größer.

When comparing Schwimmbecken to Schwimmbad, remember the 'part-to-whole' relationship. The Schwimmbecken is a part of the Schwimmbad. If you are meeting a friend, you would say, "Wir treffen uns am Schwimmbad" (at the building). If you are describing the water temperature, you say, "Das Wasser im Schwimmbecken ist warm." Another related term is das Planschbecken, which refers specifically to a small, shallow wading pool for toddlers (from planschen, meaning to splash).

In a technical or architectural context, you might also hear die Schwimmanlage (swimming facility) or die Badestelle (bathing spot). A Badestelle usually refers to a designated area in a natural lake or river, whereas a Schwimmbecken always implies an artificial, man-made structure. Understanding these distinctions allows you to be more descriptive and precise. For example, if you prefer swimming in nature, you might say, "Ich schwimme lieber im See als im Schwimmbecken," highlighting the contrast between the natural lake and the artificial pool.

Das Bassin im Schlosspark ist wunderschön, aber man darf darin nicht schwimmen.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'Becken' in German also refers to the pelvis in anatomy, because the pelvic bone is shaped somewhat like a basin.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈʃvɪm.bɛk.ən/

US /ˈʃvɪm.bɛk.ən/

Primary stress is on the first syllable: SCHWIMM-becken.

Rhymes With

Schnecken (snails) Ecken (corners) Hecken (hedges) wecken (to wake up) stecken (to stick/put) lecken (to lick) checken (to check) decken (to cover)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'v' as 'f' (it should be voiced like 'v' in 'van').
Making the 'i' too long (it should be short like 'fish', not long like 'feet').
Pronouncing the final 'n' too strongly (it's often a bit swallowed).
Confusing the 'sch' with a simple 's'.
Stress on the second syllable instead of the first.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize as a compound of two common words.

Writing 3/5

Long word, requires correct spelling of 'sch' and double 'm'.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once you know 'sch' and 'v'.

Listening 2/5

Clear phonetic structure.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

schwimmen das Wasser das Bad groß blau

Learn Next

der Bademeister die Umkleidekabine das Chlor die Taucherbrille der Startblock

Advanced

die Wasseraufbereitung die Oberflächenspannung die Beckenhydraulik der Strömungskanal

Grammar to Know

Compound Nouns

Schwimm + Becken = das Schwimmbecken (The gender is determined by the last word: das Becken).

Two-Way Prepositions (Accusative)

Ich springe in das Schwimmbecken. (Action/Movement into a space).

Two-Way Prepositions (Dative)

Ich bin im Schwimmbecken. (Location inside a space).

Genitive Case with Nouns

Der Rand des Schwimmbeckens ist rutschig.

Identical Singular and Plural

Ein Schwimmbecken, zwei Schwimmbecken.

Examples by Level

Das Schwimmbecken ist blau.

The swimming pool is blue.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure. 'Das' is the neuter article.

Ich sehe ein Schwimmbecken.

I see a swimming pool.

Accusative case: 'ein' remains 'ein' for neuter nouns.

Wo ist das Schwimmbecken?

Where is the swimming pool?

Question structure with 'Wo'.

Das Schwimmbecken ist groß.

The swimming pool is big.

Basic descriptive sentence.

Ist das ein Schwimmbecken?

Is that a swimming pool?

Yes/No question structure.

Wir haben ein Schwimmbecken.

We have a swimming pool.

Verb 'haben' takes the accusative.

Das Schwimmbecken ist hier.

The swimming pool is here.

Adverb of place 'hier'.

Das Wasser im Schwimmbecken ist gut.

The water in the swimming pool is good.

'Im' is 'in dem', showing location (dative).

Ich springe in das Schwimmbecken.

I jump into the swimming pool.

'In das' shows movement (accusative).

Wir schwimmen im Schwimmbecken.

We are swimming in the swimming pool.

'Im' (in dem) shows location (dative).

Das Schwimmbecken ist 25 Meter lang.

The swimming pool is 25 meters long.

Describing dimensions.

Kinder spielen im kleinen Schwimmbecken.

Children are playing in the small swimming pool.

Adjective 'kleinen' in the dative case.

Darf man in dieses Schwimmbecken springen?

Is one allowed to jump into this swimming pool?

Modal verb 'dürfen' and demonstrative pronoun 'dieses'.

Das Schwimmbecken wird jeden Tag gereinigt.

The swimming pool is cleaned every day.

Simple passive voice.

Wir treffen uns am Schwimmbecken.

We are meeting at the swimming pool.

'Am' (an dem) means 'at the edge of'.

Das Wasser ist im Schwimmbecken sehr kalt.

The water is very cold in the swimming pool.

Adverb 'sehr' modifying the adjective 'kalt'.

Das Schwimmbecken ist wegen Reparaturen geschlossen.

The swimming pool is closed due to repairs.

Preposition 'wegen' followed by the genitive (plural).

Es gibt drei verschiedene Schwimmbecken in diesem Bad.

There are three different swimming pools in this bath/facility.

'Es gibt' followed by the accusative.

Bevor ich ins Schwimmbecken gehe, dusche ich mich.

Before I go into the pool, I take a shower.

Subordinate clause with 'bevor' and reflexive verb 'sich duschen'.

Das Schwimmbecken ist mit Chlor gereinigt worden.

The swimming pool has been cleaned with chlorine.

Perfect passive voice.

Man sollte nicht am Rand des Schwimmbeckens rennen.

One should not run at the edge of the swimming pool.

Genitive case: 'des Schwimmbeckens'.

Das Schwimmbecken hat eine Tiefe von zwei Metern.

The swimming pool has a depth of two meters.

Preposition 'von' used to indicate measurement.

Obwohl das Schwimmbecken beheizt ist, finde ich es zu kühl.

Although the pool is heated, I find it too cool.

Conjunction 'obwohl' triggering verb-final word order.

Wir haben uns für ein Schwimmbecken aus Edelstahl entschieden.

We decided on a stainless steel swimming pool.

Reflexive verb 'sich entscheiden für' + accusative.

Die Sanierung des Schwimmbeckens kostet die Stadt Millionen.

The renovation of the swimming pool is costing the city millions.

Genitive attribute 'des Schwimmbeckens'.

Die Wasserqualität im Schwimmbecken wird regelmäßig überprüft.

The water quality in the swimming pool is regularly checked.

Passive voice with an adverb of frequency.

Das Schwimmbecken verfügt über eine moderne Filteranlage.

The swimming pool features a modern filtration system.

Verb 'verfügen über' + accusative.

Trotz der Kälte sprangen einige Mutige ins Schwimmbecken.

Despite the cold, some brave people jumped into the pool.

Preposition 'trotz' + genitive.

Das Schwimmbecken ist für internationale Wettkämpfe zugelassen.

The swimming pool is approved for international competitions.

Adjective 'zugelassen' with the preposition 'für'.

Durch die Verdunstung verliert das Schwimmbecken viel Wasser.

The swimming pool loses a lot of water through evaporation.

Causal relationship expressed with 'durch'.

Ein Schwimmbecken im Garten steigert den Wert der Immobilie.

A swimming pool in the garden increases the value of the property.

Subject-object relationship with a transitive verb.

Sicherheitsvorschriften am Schwimmbecken müssen strikt befolgt werden.

Safety regulations at the pool must be strictly followed.

Modal verb 'müssen' in a passive construction.

Die architektonische Gestaltung des Schwimmbeckens ist beeindruckend.

The architectural design of the swimming pool is impressive.

Complex noun phrase with genitive.

Das Schwimmbecken fungiert als zentrales Element der Hotelanlage.

The swimming pool functions as the central element of the hotel complex.

Verb 'fungieren als' (to function as).

Man sollte das Schwimmbecken abdecken, um Energie zu sparen.

One should cover the swimming pool to save energy.

Final clause with 'um...zu'.

Die Auskleidung des Schwimmbeckens weist Risse auf.

The lining of the swimming pool shows cracks.

Separable verb 'aufweisen'.

Das Schwimmbecken wurde nach neuesten ökologischen Standards gebaut.

The swimming pool was built according to the latest ecological standards.

Passive voice with 'nach' + dative.

Das Licht spiegelt sich malerisch auf der Oberfläche des Schwimmbeckens.

The light reflects picturesquely on the surface of the pool.

Reflexive verb 'sich spiegeln'.

Infolge der Havarie musste das Schwimmbecken entleert werden.

As a result of the accident, the swimming pool had to be emptied.

Preposition 'infolge' + genitive.

Das Schwimmbecken bildet den Rahmen für zahlreiche Sommerfeste.

The swimming pool forms the framework for numerous summer parties.

Metaphorical use of 'Rahmen bilden'.

Die hydrodynamischen Eigenschaften des Schwimmbeckens wurden optimiert.

The hydrodynamic properties of the swimming pool were optimized.

Highly technical vocabulary.

Das Schwimmbecken ist ein Relikt der mondänen Badekultur der 20er Jahre.

The swimming pool is a relic of the fashionable bathing culture of the 1920s.

Sophisticated historical context.

Die rechtliche Haftung am Schwimmbecken ist ein komplexes Thema.

Legal liability at the swimming pool is a complex issue.

Abstract legal terminology.

Das Schwimmbecken evoziert Erinnerungen an endlose Sommertage.

The swimming pool evokes memories of endless summer days.

Elevated verb 'evozieren'.

Die Statik des Schwimmbeckens muss extremen Belastungen standhalten.

The statics of the swimming pool must withstand extreme loads.

Engineering terminology.

Das Schwimmbecken wurde kunstvoll in die Landschaft integriert.

The swimming pool was artistically integrated into the landscape.

Descriptive adverb and passive construction.

Eine mangelhafte Abdichtung des Schwimmbeckens kann zu Bauschäden führen.

Inadequate sealing of the pool can lead to structural damage.

Complex noun-preposition-noun structure.

Das Schwimmbecken dient als Metapher für die soziale Isolation.

The swimming pool serves as a metaphor for social isolation.

Literary analysis context.

Common Collocations

ins Schwimmbecken springen

das Schwimmbecken reinigen

beheiztes Schwimmbecken

olympisches Schwimmbecken

das Schwimmbecken füllen

am Rand des Schwimmbeckens

überdachtes Schwimmbecken

das Schwimmbecken leeren

tiefes Schwimmbecken

das Schwimmbecken abdecken

Common Phrases

Ab ins Becken!

— A common exclamation telling someone to get into the water.

Es ist warm genug. Ab ins Becken!

Raus aus dem Becken!

— What a lifeguard says when everyone needs to leave the water.

Das Training ist vorbei. Raus aus dem Becken!

Das Becken ist gesperrt.

— Indicates that the pool cannot be used currently.

Wegen einer Reinigung ist das Becken gesperrt.

Ein Becken für Nichtschwimmer.

— A shallow area for people who cannot swim well.

Dort hinten ist das Becken für Nichtschwimmer.

Das Becken läuft über.

— The pool is overflowing with water.

Schalt das Wasser aus, das Becken läuft über!

Ein 50-Meter-Becken.

— Refers to a standard full-size competition pool.

In dieser Stadt gibt es leider kein 50-Meter-Becken.

Das Becken ausleuchten.

— To light up the pool, usually with underwater lights.

Wir wollen das Becken für die Party blau ausleuchten.

Am Beckenrand sitzen.

— To sit at the edge of the pool.

Sie sitzt gerne am Beckenrand und liest.

Ins kalte Becken steigen.

— To enter a cold pool (often used literally).

Ich hasse es, in ein kaltes Becken zu steigen.

Das Becken schrubben.

— To scrub/clean the walls of the pool.

Heute müssen wir das leere Becken schrubben.

Often Confused With

das Schwimmbecken vs Schwimmbad

Schwimmbad is the whole facility; Schwimmbecken is just the basin.

das Schwimmbecken vs Waschbecken

Waschbecken is a sink in the bathroom; Schwimmbecken is for swimming.

das Schwimmbecken vs Pfütze

A puddle. Sometimes used jokingly for a very small pool.

Idioms & Expressions

"Ins kalte Wasser springen"

— To do something new and difficult without being prepared.

Ich hatte keine Erfahrung, ich musste einfach ins kalte Wasser springen.

common

"Sich über Wasser halten"

— To barely survive or manage financially.

Mit diesem kleinen Gehalt kann er sich kaum über Wasser halten.

common

"Das schlägt dem Fass den Boden aus"

— That's the last straw (often used in contexts of frustration).

Dass das Becken schon wieder kaputt ist, schlägt dem Fass den Boden aus!

informal

"Im Trüben fischen"

— To try to find something out in an unclear situation.

Ohne Beweise fischen wir nur im Trüben.

common

"Wasser predigen und Wein trinken"

— To be a hypocrite.

Er sagt, wir sollen sparen, aber er kauft ein neues Becken. Er predigt Wasser und trinkt Wein.

common

"Jemandem das Wasser nicht reichen können"

— To not be as good as someone else.

Als Schwimmer kann ich ihm das Wasser nicht reichen.

common

"Stille Wasser sind tief"

— Quiet people can be surprising or complex.

Er sagt nicht viel, aber stille Wasser sind tief.

common

"Mit allen Wassern gewaschen sein"

— To be very cunning or experienced.

Pass auf bei diesem Geschäftsmann, er ist mit allen Wassern gewaschen.

common

"Ins Schwimmen geraten"

— To become uncertain or lose one's train of thought.

Bei der Prüfung geriet er ordentlich ins Schwimmen.

common

"Das ist Wasser auf seine Mühlen"

— That plays right into his hands.

Die Kritik am Projekt war Wasser auf seine Mühlen.

common

Easily Confused

das Schwimmbecken vs das Becken

It can mean 'basin', 'pelvis', or 'cymbals'.

Context determines the meaning. In a music room, it's cymbals; in a doctor's office, it's the pelvis; at a pool, it's the basin.

Der Schlagzeuger spielt das Becken. / Der Schwimmer springt ins Becken.

das Schwimmbecken vs der Pool

It's an English loanword used in German.

Pool is more casual and often implies a private or luxury context. Schwimmbecken is more descriptive and standard.

Kommst du mit an den Pool? (Casual) / Das Schwimmbecken hat olympische Maße. (Standard)

das Schwimmbecken vs das Freibad

Both refer to swimming areas.

Freibad is an outdoor swimming facility. A Freibad usually contains one or more Schwimmbecken.

Im Freibad gibt es ein großes Schwimmbecken.

das Schwimmbecken vs das Hallenbad

Both refer to swimming areas.

Hallenbad is an indoor swimming facility. It contains indoor Schwimmbecken.

Im Winter gehen wir ins Hallenbad.

das Schwimmbecken vs das Planschbecken

Both are basins for water.

Planschbecken is specifically a small, shallow, often inflatable pool for children to splash in.

Das Baby spielt im Planschbecken.

Sentence Patterns

Das [Noun] ist [Adjective].

Das Schwimmbecken ist tief.

Ich gehe in das [Noun].

Ich gehe in das Schwimmbecken.

Ich schwimme gerne im [Noun], weil...

Ich schwimme gerne im Schwimmbecken, weil es sicher ist.

Obwohl das [Noun] [Adjective] ist, [Verb]...

Obwohl das Schwimmbecken voll ist, schwimme ich eine Runde.

Die [Noun] des [Noun-Genitive] ist...

Die Wassertemperatur des Schwimmbeckens ist angenehm.

In Anbetracht der [Noun-Genitive] am [Noun-Dative]...

In Anbetracht der Sicherheitsmängel am Schwimmbecken wurde es geschlossen.

Hier ist ein [Noun].

Hier ist ein Schwimmbecken.

Wir sehen das [Noun].

Wir sehen das Schwimmbecken.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in leisure, tourism, and real estate contexts.

Common Mistakes

Der Schwimmbecken → Das Schwimmbecken
Learners often guess masculine for nouns ending in -en. 'Becken' is neuter.
Ich springe im Schwimmbecken. → Ich springe ins Schwimmbecken.
If you are jumping *into* the water, you need the accusative 'ins' (in das). 'Im' means you are already in there jumping around.
Die Schwimmbecken sind tief. → Die Schwimmbecken sind tief.
Wait, this is correct! The mistake is trying to say 'Die Schwimmbeckene' or 'Schwimmbecker'. The plural has no extra ending.
Ich gehe zum Schwimmbecken. → Ich gehe ins Schwimmbad.
Usually, you go to the facility (Schwimmbad), not just the basin. Use 'zum Schwimmbecken' only if you are already at the facility and walking towards the water.
Das Schwimm Becken → Das Schwimmbecken
In German, compound nouns are never written with a space.

Tips

Remember the Neuter

Always associate 'Schwimmbecken' with 'das'. Neuter nouns can be tricky, but 'das Becken' is a consistent one to remember.

Compound Power

Notice how many words you can make with '-becken'. Waschbecken, Planschbecken, Kinderbecken. This helps you learn multiple words at once.

Bad vs. Becken

If you are talking about the water, use 'Becken'. If you are talking about the trip or the facility, use 'Bad'.

The 'Sch' Sound

Practice the 'sch' sound together with the 'w'. It's a smooth transition, almost like 'sh-vimm'.

Seepferdchen

If you hear people talking about a 'Seepferdchen' (seahorse) at the 'Schwimmbecken', they are referring to the basic swimming certificate for kids.

Cleanliness

In Germany, public pools are very clean. The word 'sauber' (clean) is often used in conjunction with 'Schwimmbecken'.

Beckenrand

The 'Beckenrand' (pool edge) is a common place for rules. 'Nicht rennen!' (Don't run!) is the most common one.

Double Consonants

Watch out for the 'mm' in 'Schwimm'. German often uses double consonants to show that the preceding vowel is short.

Reduced Endings

The '-en' at the end of 'Schwimmbecken' is often very short in spoken German. It might sound like 'Schwimmbeck'n'.

Pool vs. Becken

Use 'Pool' for your backyard or a fancy hotel, but 'Schwimmbecken' for a public facility or an Olympic pool.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a giant **SWIM**ming **BECK**on (basin) inviting you in. Schwimm + Becken.

Visual Association

Picture a tiled blue basin (Becken) with lane lines for swimming (Schwimm).

Word Web

Wasser Chlor Fliesen Leiter Rand Tiefe Bahnen Startblock

Challenge

Try to describe the dimensions and color of a 'Schwimmbecken' using at least three adjectives.

Word Origin

A compound of 'schwimmen' (to swim) and 'Becken' (basin). 'Schwimmen' comes from Middle High German 'swimmen', from Old High German 'swimman'. 'Becken' comes from Middle High German 'becken', which was borrowed from Late Latin 'baccinus' (a water vessel).

Original meaning: A basin specifically designed for the purpose of swimming.

Germanic (Schwimmen) + Latin loanword (Becken).

Cultural Context

Always follow the 'Badeordnung' (pool rules) in Germany, as they are taken very seriously.

In the US or UK, people just say 'pool'. In Germany, being specific about 'Becken' vs 'Bad' is more common.

The film 'The Swimsuit' (German: Der Badeanzug) often features pool scenes. Many German crime shows (Tatort) have scenes at public pools. Literary descriptions of post-war Germany often mention the rebuilding of public baths.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Public Swimming Pool

Wo ist das Schwimmerbecken?
Ist das Becken beheizt?
Wie tief ist das Becken?
Darf man hier ins Becken springen?

Hotel Stay

Hat das Hotel ein Schwimmbecken?
Wann öffnet das Schwimmbecken?
Gibt es Handtücher am Becken?
Ist das Schwimmbecken drinnen oder draußen?

Garden / Home

Wir bauen ein Schwimmbecken.
Das Becken muss gereinigt werden.
Hast du die Abdeckung für das Becken?
Das Wasser im Becken ist grün.

Sports / Competition

Das Becken hat acht Bahnen.
Die Wassertemperatur im Becken ist ideal.
Er trainiert im olympischen Becken.
Die Wende am Beckenrand war perfekt.

Safety / Rules

Nicht am Beckenrand rennen!
Kinder nur unter Aufsicht ins Becken.
Vor dem Betreten des Beckens duschen.
Das Becken ist für Nichtschwimmer gesperrt.

Conversation Starters

"Gehst du lieber in ein großes Schwimmbecken oder schwimmst du lieber im Meer?"

"Wie oft pro Woche besuchst du das Schwimmbecken in deiner Stadt?"

"Findest du, dass das Wasser in öffentlichen Schwimmbecken oft zu viel Chlor hat?"

"Hast du schon mal ein Schwimmbecken aus Edelstahl gesehen? Die sehen sehr modern aus."

"Was ist für dich die perfekte Temperatur für ein Schwimmbecken?"

Journal Prompts

Beschreibe deinen idealen Tag am Schwimmbecken. Was machst du, was isst du, und wer ist bei dir?

Erinnere dich an das erste Mal, als du in ein tiefes Schwimmbecken gesprungen bist. Wie hast du dich gefühlt?

Schreibe über die Unterschiede zwischen einem privaten Pool und einem öffentlichen Schwimmbecken.

Warum ist es wichtig, dass Kinder früh lernen, sicher in einem Schwimmbecken zu schwimmen?

Stell dir vor, du planst ein Haus. Wie würde dein Traum-Schwimmbecken aussehen?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is neuter: 'das Schwimmbecken'. This is because the main noun 'Becken' is neuter. Even though many words ending in '-en' are masculine, 'Becken' is a notable exception.

You say 'Ich bin im Schwimmbecken'. 'Im' is a contraction of 'in dem', using the dative case to show location.

Think of 'Schwimmbad' as the destination (the building or park) and 'Schwimmbecken' as the object containing water. You go to the 'Schwimmbad' to jump into the 'Schwimmbecken'.

The plural is 'die Schwimmbecken'. In German, many neuter nouns ending in '-en' do not change their form in the plural, only the article changes from 'das' to 'die'.

Yes, if you are already at a swimming pool or talking about swimming, 'Becken' is a very common and natural shorthand.

It translates to 'non-swimmer's pool'. It is a shallow basin designed for children or people who cannot swim, where they can stand safely.

It is spelled with a capital 'S', followed by 'chwimm' (double 'm') and 'becken' (with a 'ck'). It is always written as one word.

It is a loanword from English that is now part of the German language. It is masculine: 'der Pool'. It's very common in informal settings.

It is an Olympic-sized swimming pool that is exactly 50 meters long. These are usually found in large sports centers or 'Leistungszentren'.

Use 'in' if you are inside the water ('im Becken') or going into it ('ins Becken'). Use 'an' if you are at the edge of the pool ('am Beckenrand').