At the A1 level, you will mostly see 'Zelle' in very simple contexts, often related to technology or everyday objects. You might learn about a 'Telefonzelle' (phone booth), although these are becoming rare. You might also encounter it when talking about a 'Batterie' that has 'Zellen'. The focus is on recognizing the word as a small unit or a specific type of small room. You don't need to know the complex biological details yet, just that it is a 'die' word and the plural is 'Zellen'. Example: 'Das ist eine Zelle.' (That is a cell.)
At the A2 level, 'Zelle' appears in basic descriptions of the human body or simple science texts. You might learn that the body is made of many 'Zellen'. You will also see it in stories or news about prisons. You should be able to use the word in simple sentences with adjectives. For example: 'Die Zelle ist klein.' (The cell is small.) You also start to see compound words like 'Solarzelle'. You should be comfortable with the feminine gender and plural forms in different cases.
At the B1 level, you are expected to understand 'Zelle' in more detailed biological and technical contexts. You can describe the function of a cell in a simple way: 'Die Zelle produziert Energie.' (The cell produces energy.) You will encounter the word in news reports about health, technology, and crime. You should know common compounds like 'Stammzelle' (stem cell) and understand the figurative use of 'Zelle' for small political or social groups. Your vocabulary should include related verbs like 'teilen' (to divide) or 'untersuchen' (to examine).
At the B2 level, 'Zelle' is used in academic and professional discussions. You might read articles about 'Zellbiologie' (cell biology) or 'Brennstoffzellentechnologie' (fuel cell technology). You should understand the nuances between 'Zelle' and synonyms like 'Haftraum'. You can discuss complex topics like 'Stammzellenforschung' (stem cell research) and the ethical implications involved. Your ability to use the word in the genitive case and with complex sentence structures is expected. For example: 'Trotz der geringen Größe der Zelle erfüllt sie lebenswichtige Funktionen.'
At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated understanding of 'Zelle'. You can use it in highly specialized contexts, such as molecular biology or advanced electronics. You are aware of historical and literary references to 'Zellen', such as in the works of Kafka or in historical accounts of political resistance. You can use the word fluently in idiomatic or metaphorical ways. You understand the subtle differences in register between 'Gefängniszelle', 'Haftraum', and 'Arrestzelle'. You can follow complex lectures where 'Zelle' is a central concept.
At the C2 level, you master 'Zelle' in all its dimensions. You can use it in philosophical discussions about the 'Zelle' as a metaphor for the individual in society. You are capable of reading and producing scientific papers or legal documents where the term is used with absolute precision. You understand all technical derivations and can play with the word's multiple meanings in creative writing. You have a deep grasp of the etymology and how the concept of the 'cell' has shaped Western scientific and legal thought.

die Zelle in 30 Seconds

  • Biological unit: The building block of all living organisms, from bacteria to humans.
  • Physical space: A small, often locked room in a prison or monastery.
  • Technical component: An individual unit in a battery or solar panel that handles energy.
  • Social unit: A small, specialized group within a larger organization, often secretive.

The German noun die Zelle is a fascinatingly versatile word that serves as a cornerstone in biology, technology, law enforcement, and sociology. At its most fundamental level, it refers to a small, enclosed space or a basic unit of a larger system. Derived from the Latin word cella, meaning a small room, storeroom, or chamber, the term has evolved to describe the microscopic building blocks of life, the individual compartments of a battery, and the confining rooms of a prison. In a biological context, die Zelle is the smallest structural and functional unit of an organism, capable of independent existence. Whether you are discussing the complex organelles within a human neuron or the simple structure of a prokaryotic bacterium, the word remains the same. Beyond biology, the word is ubiquitous in modern technology. A Solarzelle (solar cell) converts light into electricity, while a Brennstoffzelle (fuel cell) generates power through chemical reactions. In the realm of telecommunications, the word explains the very architecture of our mobile networks; a 'cellular' network is literally a Zellularnetz, divided into geographic 'cells' each served by a base station. Furthermore, the word carries a heavy social and legal weight. In a prison, die Zelle is the small room where an inmate is confined. Historically and sociologically, it also describes a small, often secretive group of people acting as a unit within a larger organization, such as a Terrorzelle (terrorist cell) or a Widerstandszelle (resistance cell). Understanding this word requires recognizing that it always implies a sense of containment and modularity—it is a single piece of a much larger puzzle, yet it contains everything necessary to perform its specific function.

Biologie
Die kleinste lebende Einheit aller Organismen.
Technik
Ein Bauelement zur Speicherung oder Wandlung von Energie, wie in einer Batterie oder Solarplatte.
Justiz
Ein kleiner Raum in einem Gefängnis zur Unterbringung von Häftlingen.

Jede lebende Zelle enthält genetisches Material in Form von DNA.

Der Wärter schloss die schwere Tür der Zelle ab.

Eine Photovoltaikanlage besteht aus vielen einzelnen Zellen.

Das Bienenvolk baut sechseckige Zellen aus Wachs.

Die Polizei hob eine kriminelle Zelle im Untergrund aus.

Using die Zelle correctly involves understanding its grammatical gender (feminine) and its plural form (die Zellen). In biological contexts, it is frequently combined with adjectives to specify the type of cell being discussed. For instance, die tierische Zelle (animal cell) and die pflanzliche Zelle (plant cell) are fundamental terms in any science curriculum. When discussing the function of these units, you will often use verbs like teilen (to divide), erneuern (to renew), or absterben (to die off). For example, 'Die Zellen teilen sich schnell' (The cells divide quickly). In technological settings, die Zelle often appears in compound nouns. A Brennstoffzelle is a fuel cell, and a Knopfzelle is a button cell battery often found in watches. If you are describing a prison environment, you might use phrases like 'in eine Zelle sperren' (to lock in a cell) or 'die Einzelzelle' (solitary confinement cell). Note that the word is also used figuratively in politics. A 'schlafende Zelle' (sleeper cell) refers to a group of agents waiting for a command to act. In all these cases, the word functions as a countable noun. Because it is feminine, the definite article is 'die' in the nominative and accusative, 'der' in the dative and genitive. Pay close attention to the genitive singular: 'der Kern der Zelle' (the nucleus of the cell). In the plural dative, remember to add an 'n' to the noun if it doesn't already have one: 'In den Zellen' (In the cells), which is simple here as the plural already ends in 'n'.

Grammar Tip
Always use 'die' for 'Zelle'. The plural is 'die Zellen'.

Wissenschaftler untersuchen, wie die Zelle auf das Medikament reagiert.

Die Batterie besteht aus mehreren Zellen, die in Reihe geschaltet sind.

Er verbrachte die Nacht in einer kalten Zelle.

You will encounter die Zelle in a variety of real-world scenarios in Germany. In a school or university setting, specifically in biology class, it is one of the most frequently used words. Teachers will explain the Zellmembran (cell membrane), the Zellkern (nucleus), and Zellteilung (cell division). If you watch German news programs like 'Tagesschau', you might hear the word in reports about medical breakthroughs, such as research involving Stammzellen (stem cells) to treat diseases. Alternatively, the word appears in crime dramas or news reports regarding the justice system; a reporter might mention that a high-profile suspect is being held in a Untersuchungshaftzelle (remand cell). In the context of environmental discussions, Solarzellen and Brennstoffzellen are hot topics as Germany transitions to renewable energy. You might also hear the term in a historical museum, particularly one dealing with the Stasi or the Nazi era, where 'Zellen' were used for political prisoners. Even in nature documentaries, the term is used to describe the intricate structures of a beehive's Wabenzellen. Finally, in technical manuals or when buying electronics, you might see references to 'Lithium-Ionen-Zellen'. It is a word that bridges the gap between the microscopic world of science and the practical world of technology and law.

In der Dokumentation wurde erklärt, wie Stammzellen zur Heilung beitragen können.

For English speakers learning German, the most common mistake with die Zelle is confusing it with words that sound similar or have related meanings. One frequent error is mixing up Zelle with Zeile (line). While they sound somewhat similar to a non-native ear, Zeile refers to a line of text in a book or a row of houses, whereas Zelle is the biological or physical unit. Another confusion arises with Zelt (tent). Because both start with 'Z' and are relatively short, beginners sometimes swap them, leading to confusing sentences like 'Ich schlafe in einer Zelle' (I am sleeping in a [prison/biological] cell) instead of 'Ich schlafe in einem Zelt'. Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the plural. While 'cells' in English is straightforward, 'Zellen' in German requires the '-n' suffix. In terms of usage, don't use 'Zelle' when you mean a 'battery' in a general sense; the general word is Batterie or Akku. 'Zelle' refers specifically to the individual electrochemical units inside. Another mistake is using 'Zelle' for a 'phone' just because English uses 'cell phone'. In German, you must use Handy or Mobiltelefon. Calling your phone a 'Zelle' would sound very strange, as 'Telefonzelle' specifically means a public phone booth.

Zelle vs. Zeile
'Zelle' is a cell (bio/prison); 'Zeile' is a line of text.
Zelle vs. Handy
Use 'Handy' for the device, 'Zelle' for the network unit or a phone booth (Telefonzelle).

Depending on the context, several words can act as synonyms or alternatives to die Zelle. In a biological or structural sense, you might use der Baustein (building block) or die Einheit (unit) to describe the fundamental components of a system. For example, 'Zellen sind die Bausteine des Lebens' (Cells are the building blocks of life). In the context of a prison, der Haftraum is a more formal, administrative term used by officials, whereas das Loch (the hole) is slang for solitary confinement or a very bad cell. If you are talking about a small room in a monastery, the word die Klause might be used. In technology, especially regarding batteries, das Element or der Akkumulator can be relevant, though Zelle is very specific. When referring to a small organizational group, der Zirkel (circle) or die Gruppe (group) are alternatives, though they lack the secretive or modular connotation of 'Zelle'. Understanding these nuances helps you choose the word that best fits the formality and specific domain of your conversation.

Synonym
Haftraum (Prison context, formal)
Synonym
Grundbaustein (Biological/Structural context)
Synonym
Kammer (General small chamber)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Robert Hooke first used the term 'cell' in 1665 because the plant cells he saw under a microscope reminded him of the small rooms (cells) occupied by monks.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈtsɛlə/
US /ˈtsɛlə/
The stress is on the first syllable: ZEL-le.
Rhymes With
Welle Quelle Helle Stelle Schwelle Belle Delle Gelle
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'Z' like an English 'Z' (voiced). It must be 'TS'.
  • Making the 'e' at the end silent. It must be a short schwa sound.
  • Confusing the pronunciation with 'Zeile' (line), which has a long 'ei' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize because of the English cognate.

Writing 3/5

Must remember the 'Z' spelling and the feminine gender.

Speaking 3/5

The 'TS' sound at the start requires practice for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Very distinct sound, though can be confused with 'Zeile'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

der Körper der Raum klein die Batterie das Leben

Learn Next

das Gewebe der Organismus die Teilung die Energie die Haft

Advanced

Zytologie Mitochondrien Elektrolyt Resozialisierung Konspirativ

Grammar to Know

Feminine Nouns with -e ending

Die Zelle, die Lampe, die Tasche.

Plural formation with -n

Eine Zelle -> zwei Zellen.

Compound Nouns

Solar + Zelle = Solarzelle (takes the gender of the last word).

Genitive case for possession

Der Kern der Zelle.

Dative plural -n

In den Zellen (already has an 'n').

Examples by Level

1

Die Zelle ist klein.

The cell is small.

Nominative singular.

2

Hat die Batterie zwei Zellen?

Does the battery have two cells?

Plural accusative.

3

Wo ist die Telefonzelle?

Where is the phone booth?

Compound noun.

4

Das ist eine Zelle.

That is a cell.

Indefinite article.

5

Die Zellen sind alt.

The cells are old.

Plural nominative.

6

Ich sehe eine Zelle.

I see a cell.

Accusative singular.

7

Meine Zelle hat kein Licht.

My cell has no light.

Possessive pronoun.

8

Es gibt viele Zellen.

There are many cells.

Plural with 'viele'.

1

Der Körper besteht aus vielen Zellen.

The body consists of many cells.

Dative plural after 'aus'.

2

Die Pflanze hat grüne Zellen.

The plant has green cells.

Adjective agreement.

3

Der Gefangene ist in seiner Zelle.

The prisoner is in his cell.

Dative singular after 'in'.

4

Wir brauchen eine neue Solarzelle.

We need a new solar cell.

Compound noun.

5

Die Zelle teilt sich.

The cell is dividing.

Reflexive verb.

6

In der Zelle gibt es ein Bett.

In the cell there is a bed.

Dative feminine.

7

Wissenschaftler beobachten die Zellen.

Scientists observe the cells.

Plural accusative.

8

Diese Zelle ist sehr wichtig.

This cell is very important.

Demonstrative pronoun.

1

Jede Zelle im Körper hat eine Aufgabe.

Every cell in the body has a task.

Indefinite pronoun 'jede'.

2

Die Brennstoffzelle ist eine saubere Energiequelle.

The fuel cell is a clean energy source.

Compound noun.

3

Er wurde in eine Einzelzelle verlegt.

He was moved to a solitary cell.

Accusative after 'in' (movement).

4

Die Polizei suchte nach einer geheimen Zelle.

The police searched for a secret cell.

Dative after 'nach'.

5

Die Erneuerung der Zellen dauert Tage.

The renewal of the cells takes days.

Genitive plural.

6

Stammzellen können sich in verschiedene Typen verwandeln.

Stem cells can transform into different types.

Plural subject.

7

Ohne gesunde Zellen kann man nicht leben.

Without healthy cells, one cannot live.

Accusative plural after 'ohne'.

8

Die Zelle ist die Basis des Lebens.

The cell is the basis of life.

Predicate nominative.

1

Die Erforschung von Stammzellen ist umstritten.

The research of stem cells is controversial.

Genitive plural.

2

Die Zelle absorbiert die Nährstoffe effizient.

The cell absorbs the nutrients efficiently.

Present tense.

3

In der Untersuchungshaft saß er in einer winzigen Zelle.

In remand, he sat in a tiny cell.

Adjective in dative.

4

Die Solarzellen auf dem Dach erzeugen Strom.

The solar cells on the roof generate power.

Plural subject.

5

Terrorzellen operieren oft im Verborgenen.

Terror cells often operate in secret.

Figurative usage.

6

Die Membran schützt das Innere der Zelle.

The membrane protects the interior of the cell.

Genitive singular.

7

Brennstoffzellenfahrzeuge sind eine Alternative zu E-Autos.

Fuel cell vehicles are an alternative to e-cars.

Compound noun.

8

Krebszellen teilen sich unkontrolliert.

Cancer cells divide uncontrollably.

Specific biological term.

1

Die Differenzierung der Zellen ist ein komplexer Prozess.

The differentiation of cells is a complex process.

Nominalization.

2

Er beschrieb die Zelle als ein autonomes System.

He described the cell as an autonomous system.

Prepositional object.

3

Die Isolationshaft in einer dunklen Zelle hinterlässt Spuren.

Solitary confinement in a dark cell leaves traces.

Compound noun and adjective.

4

Photovoltaik-Zellen wandeln Lichtquanten in Elektronenfluss um.

Photovoltaic cells convert light quanta into electron flow.

Technical terminology.

5

Die Widerstandszelle plante den Umsturz des Regimes.

The resistance cell planned the overthrow of the regime.

Political context.

6

Metastasen entstehen, wenn Zellen den Primärtumor verlassen.

Metastases occur when cells leave the primary tumor.

Subordinate clause.

7

Die Zelle ist der Mikrokosmos des Organismus.

The cell is the microcosm of the organism.

Metaphorical usage.

8

In der Zelle manifestiert sich die biologische Ordnung.

Biological order manifests itself in the cell.

Reflexive verb 'sich manifestieren'.

1

Die ontologische Bedeutung der Zelle als Lebensmonade ist evident.

The ontological significance of the cell as a monad of life is evident.

Academic register.

2

In der Enge der Zelle fand der Dichter zu sich selbst.

In the narrowness of the cell, the poet found himself.

Literary context.

3

Zelluläre Automaten dienen der Simulation komplexer Systeme.

Cellular automata serve the simulation of complex systems.

Adjectival form 'zellulär'.

4

Die Zellbiologie hat die Grenzen der Medizin verschoben.

Cell biology has pushed the boundaries of medicine.

Perfect tense.

5

Die Zelle fungiert hier als kleinste soziale Entität.

The cell functions here as the smallest social entity.

Sociological terminology.

6

Durch die Analyse der Zellen ließen sich Rückschlüsse ziehen.

Conclusions could be drawn by analyzing the cells.

Passive substitute with 'lassen'.

7

Die Zelle ist ein Wunderwerk der Evolution.

The cell is a marvel of evolution.

Apposition/Metaphor.

8

Jede Zelle vibriert in ihrer eigenen Frequenz.

Each cell vibrates in its own frequency.

Metaphysical usage.

Common Collocations

tierische Zelle
pflanzliche Zelle
Zelle teilen
gesunde Zelle
in der Zelle
Solarzelle
Brennstoffzelle
schlafende Zelle
Stammzelle
Zellkern

Common Phrases

Hinter Gittern in der Zelle

— Being in prison.

Er verbringt sein Leben hinter Gittern in einer Zelle.

Die Zelle der Gesellschaft

— The family as the basic unit of society.

Die Familie wird oft als die kleinste Zelle der Gesellschaft bezeichnet.

Zelle an Zelle

— Units arranged side by side.

Im Bienenstock liegen die Waben Zelle an Zelle.

In die Zelle werfen

— To throw someone into a cell (prison).

Man warf ihn ohne Prozess in die Zelle.

Eine Zelle ausheben

— To bust or dismantle a secret group.

Die Polizei konnte die Terrorzelle ausheben.

Zellularer Aufbau

— Having a structure made of cells.

Der zellulare Aufbau des Gewebes ist komplex.

Einzelzelle

— Solitary confinement.

Er wurde zur Strafe in eine Einzelzelle gesteckt.

Zellteilung

— The process of cell division.

Die Zellteilung ist ein Wunder der Natur.

Zellmembran

— The outer layer of a cell.

Die Zellmembran kontrolliert den Stoffaustausch.

Telefonzelle

— A phone booth.

Ich rufe dich aus der Telefonzelle an.

Often Confused With

die Zelle vs Zeile

Means 'line'. Confused due to similar sound.

die Zelle vs Zelt

Means 'tent'. Confused by beginners due to spelling.

die Zelle vs Seele

Means 'soul'. Confused by some due to pronunciation.

Idioms & Expressions

"In der Zelle schmoren"

— To be stuck in prison for a long time.

Lass ihn in seiner Zelle schmoren!

informal
"Die Zelle der Rebellion"

— The starting point of a revolt.

Diese Stadt war die Zelle der Rebellion.

literary
"Wie in einer Zelle"

— Feeling trapped in a small space.

In diesem kleinen Büro fühle ich mich wie in einer Zelle.

neutral
"Zellen des Widerstands"

— Small groups fighting back.

Überall bildeten sich Zellen des Widerstands.

political
"Die kleinste Zelle"

— The absolute basic unit.

Wir müssen die kleinste Zelle des Problems finden.

abstract
"Zelluläres Gedächtnis"

— The idea that cells store memories.

Einige glauben an ein zelluläres Gedächtnis.

pseudoscientific
"Gitter vor der Zelle"

— Being imprisoned.

Er hat die Gitter vor seiner Zelle satt.

neutral
"Zelle für Zelle"

— Step by step, unit by unit.

Wir untersuchen das Gewebe Zelle für Zelle.

scientific
"In der Zelle der Einsamkeit"

— Being very lonely.

Er lebt in einer Zelle der Einsamkeit.

poetic
"Die Zelle knacken"

— To break into or open a unit/cell.

Es ist schwer, diese Zelle zu knacken.

informal

Easily Confused

die Zelle vs Zeile

Phonetic similarity.

Zeile is a line of text; Zelle is a cell.

Lies die nächste Zeile, nicht die Zelle!

die Zelle vs Zelt

Orthographic similarity.

Zelt is for camping; Zelle is for biology or prison.

Wir schlafen im Zelt, nicht in einer Zelle.

die Zelle vs Zoll

Starts with 'Z'.

Zoll is customs or an inch; Zelle is a cell.

Der Zoll kontrolliert die Zellen der Batterie.

die Zelle vs Saal

Related to rooms.

Saal is a large hall; Zelle is a tiny room.

Der Saal ist groß, die Zelle ist klein.

die Zelle vs Welle

Rhymes with Zelle.

Welle is a wave; Zelle is a cell.

Die Welle trifft die Solarzelle.

Sentence Patterns

A1

Das ist eine [Adjektiv] Zelle.

Das ist eine kleine Zelle.

A2

Die Zelle hat [Nomen].

Die Zelle hat einen Kern.

B1

Man benutzt Zellen, um [Verb].

Man benutzt Solarzellen, um Strom zu erzeugen.

B2

Aufgrund der [Nomen] der Zelle...

Aufgrund der Struktur der Zelle ist sie stabil.

C1

Es lässt sich feststellen, dass die Zelle...

Es lässt sich feststellen, dass die Zelle mutiert ist.

C2

Inwiefern die Zelle als [Metapher] fungiert...

Inwiefern die Zelle als Spiegel des Kosmos fungiert...

B1

Er wurde in die Zelle [Verb].

Er wurde in die Zelle gesperrt.

A2

Ich sehe viele [Nomen] in der Zelle.

Ich sehe viele Betten in der Zelle.

Word Family

Nouns

Zellkern
Zellmembran
Zellwand
Zellteilung
Gefängniszelle
Solarzelle
Brennstoffzelle
Stammzelle
Zellulartelefon

Verbs

zellulieren (rare)
teilen (in relation to cells)

Adjectives

zellulär
einzellig
mehrzellig
interzellulär
intrazellulär

Related

Gewebe
Organismus
Biologie
Haft
Batterie

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in scientific, technical, and news contexts.

Common Mistakes
  • Der Zelle Die Zelle

    The noun is feminine, not masculine.

  • Ich habe eine Zelle (meaning phone) Ich habe ein Handy

    'Zelle' is not used for the device itself.

  • Zele Zelle

    Missing the second 'L' changes the vowel length.

  • Die Zeile (when meaning biological cell) Die Zelle

    Confusing 'line' with 'cell'.

  • In die Zelle (for location) In der Zelle

    Use dative for location, accusative only for movement.

Tips

Gender Memory

Remember 'die Zelle' by imagining a female scientist looking at a cell.

Compound Power

Learn 'Zelle' as a base for many other words like Solarzelle and Stammzelle.

The TS Sound

Always start with a sharp 'TS' sound to sound like a native.

Not for Phones

Avoid calling your mobile a 'Zelle'. Stick to 'Handy'.

News Context

If you hear 'Zelle' on the news, it's usually about crime or medicine.

Latin Root

Thinking of the Latin 'cella' (chamber) helps connect all its meanings.

Biology Basics

In biology, 'Zelle' is the most important word to know for the B1 level.

Double L

Always write it with two 'L's to keep the 'e' short.

Visual Aids

Draw a cell and label its parts in German to memorize related vocabulary.

Yellow Booths

Look up 'Gelbe Telefonzelle' to see a piece of German history.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Cell' in English; it's exactly the same concept. Just remember to pronounce the 'Z' as 'TS' like in 'TSunami'.

Visual Association

Imagine a tiny room (prison cell) inside a larger body. The room has its own life but is part of the whole building.

Word Web

Biologie Gefängnis Technik Solar Batterie Körper Leben Raum

Challenge

Try to find 5 different things in your house that could be described as or contain a 'Zelle' (e.g., a battery, your body, a solar light).

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin 'cella', meaning a small room, hut, or storeroom. It entered Old High German as 'zella'.

Original meaning: A small chamber or storage space.

Indo-European, via Latin into Germanic.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'Zelle' in political contexts; it can imply illegal or underground activity.

The concept is identical to 'cell', but 'cell phone' is never 'Zelle' in German; it's 'Handy'.

Kafka's 'In der Strafkolonie' The white rose (Widerstandszelle) Modern solar energy initiatives (Energiewende)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Biology Class

  • Was ist eine Zelle?
  • Zeichne eine Zelle.
  • Die Zellwand ist fest.
  • Mikroskopische Zellen.

Prison/Law

  • In der Zelle sitzen.
  • Die Tür der Zelle.
  • Eine saubere Zelle.
  • Einzelhaft in der Zelle.

Technology

  • Die Batterie-Zelle.
  • Solarzellen installieren.
  • Eine defekte Zelle.
  • Energie in der Zelle.

Health/Medicine

  • Gesunde Zellen.
  • Krebszellen bekämpfen.
  • Stammzellen spenden.
  • Zellen regenerieren.

Politics/Groups

  • Eine terroristische Zelle.
  • Die Widerstandszelle.
  • Eine schlafende Zelle.
  • Zellen bilden.

Conversation Starters

"Wusstest du, dass der menschliche Körper aus Billionen von Zellen besteht?"

"Glaubst du, dass Brennstoffzellen die Zukunft der Autos sind?"

"Wie stellst du dir eine Zelle in einem modernen Gefängnis vor?"

"Hast du schon einmal Zellen unter einem Mikroskop gesehen?"

"Warum sind Stammzellen in der Medizin so wichtig?"

Journal Prompts

Beschreibe den Aufbau einer Zelle, als wäre sie eine kleine Fabrik.

Stell dir vor, du müsstest einen Tag in einer Gefängniszelle verbringen. Was würdest du tun?

Welche Rolle spielen Solarzellen in deinem täglichen Leben oder in deiner Stadt?

Schreibe über eine 'Zelle der Gesellschaft' (die Familie) und ihre Bedeutung.

Reflektiere über die Entdeckung der Zelle und wie sie unser Weltbild verändert hat.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, 'die Zelle' is always feminine in all its meanings.

No, you should use 'Handy'. 'Telefonzelle' only refers to a phone booth.

The plural is 'die Zellen'.

Yes, it is very common in medical and ethical discussions in Germany.

It refers to a small, organized group of terrorists acting as a unit.

Yes, but 'Haftraum' is the official administrative term used in prisons.

It is pronounced like 'ts' in 'cats'.

It refers to an individual unit *within* a battery, though sometimes people say it loosely.

It is a technical unit that converts sunlight into electricity.

Yes, 'pflanzliche Zellen' are a basic concept in German biology.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Was ist eine Zelle? (Antworte in zwei Sätzen)

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Beschreibe eine Gefängniszelle.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Warum sind Solarzellen gut für die Umwelt?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Erkläre den Begriff 'Stammzelle'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'Zellteilung'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Was ist der Unterschied zwischen einer tierischen und einer pflanzlichen Zelle?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Erkläre 'Brennstoffzelle' in einfachen Worten.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Wie fühlt sich jemand in einer Einzelzelle?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Nenne drei Komposita mit 'Zelle'.

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writing

Warum nennt man Terrorgruppen 'Zellen'?

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writing

Beschreibe die Funktion der Zellmembran.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Schreibe eine kurze Geschichte über eine Zelle.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Was passiert bei der Zellatmung?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Wie hat das Mikroskop unser Wissen über Zellen verändert?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Ist die Familie die 'kleinste Zelle der Gesellschaft'? Warum?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Was ist eine Telefonzelle und gibt es sie noch?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Erkläre 'Zellularnetz'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Wie wichtig sind Zellen für die Medizin?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Was ist eine Knopfzelle?

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writing

Beschreibe die Zelle als Fabrik.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Buchstabiere das Wort 'Zelle'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Sprich den Satz: 'Die Zelle teilt sich.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Erkläre den Unterschied zwischen Zelle und Zeile.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Diskutiere über die Vor- und Nachteile von Solarzellen.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Erzähle von einem Film, in dem eine Gefängniszelle vorkam.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Wie funktioniert eine Brennstoffzelle? (Kurzfassung)

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Warum ist die Zelle so wichtig für das Leben?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Was sind Stammzellen? Erkläre es einem Freund.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Sprich über die Ethik der Zellforschung.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Was assoziierst du mit dem Wort 'Zelle'?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Beschreibe den Aufbau einer typischen Zelle.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Wie fühlt sich Einsamkeit in einer Zelle an?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Nenne 5 Wörter, die mit 'Zell-' beginnen.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Erkläre die Bedeutung von 'Terrorzelle'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Sprich über die Zukunft der Batteriezellen.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Wie hat sich die Zelle entwickelt? (Evolution)

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Was ist eine 'Einzelzelle'?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Warum sind Zellen so klein?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Gibt es Zellen im Weltraum?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Fasse die Bedeutung von 'Zelle' in 30 Sekunden zusammen.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir den Satz an: 'Die Zelle ist die Basis.' Schreib ihn auf.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir die Beschreibung einer Zelle an. Ist es eine Pflanzenzelle?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Welches Wort hörst du: Zelle oder Zeile?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir einen Podcast über Stammzellen an. Was ist das Hauptthema?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir die Nachrichten an. Wo wurde eine Zelle ausgehoben?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir eine Vorlesung über Zellbiologie an. Notiere drei Fachbegriffe.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir ein Interview mit einem Ex-Häftling an. Wie war seine Zelle?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir die Erklärung einer Solarzelle an. Wie entsteht Strom?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Welches Wort hörst du: Zelle oder Zelt?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir eine Geschichte über Bienen an. Was machen sie in den Zellen?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir eine Diskussion über Brennstoffzellen an. Wer ist dagegen?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir die Aussprache von 'Zellular' an. Wiederhole sie.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir einen Text über Krebszellen an. Was ist das Problem?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir eine Beschreibung einer Telefonzelle an. Wie sieht sie aus?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Hör dir einen Dialog im Labor an. Was suchen die Forscher?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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