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A2 noun #6,000 most common 14 min read

Etage

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Etage in 30 Seconds

  • Etage is German for floor or storey of a building.
  • It refers to levels above the ground floor (Erdgeschoss).
  • Commonly used in real estate, hotels, and everyday conversation.
  • Remember 'die Etage' (feminine noun) and plural 'Etagen'.
Definition
In German, the word 'Etage' refers to a floor or storey of a building. It’s a common noun used to describe different levels within a structure. Think of it as the German equivalent of 'floor' or 'level' when talking about apartments, houses, or office buildings.
Usage Context
You'll commonly hear 'Etage' when discussing where someone lives or works, or when describing the layout of a building. For example, if you're looking for an apartment, you might ask 'Auf welcher Etage ist die Wohnung?' (On which floor is the apartment?). In hotels, room numbers are often associated with their floor, so 'Zimmer 305 befindet sich in der dritten Etage' (Room 305 is on the third floor) is a typical sentence.
Building Levels
The concept of 'Etage' is fundamental to understanding building structures. German buildings, like those in many other countries, are divided horizontally into these levels. The ground floor is often referred to as 'Erdgeschoss', and subsequent floors are 'erste Etage', 'zweite Etage', and so on. Sometimes, especially in older buildings or specific regions, you might also hear terms like 'Stockwerk' which is a synonym for 'Etage'. However, 'Etage' is widely understood and used across German-speaking areas. When you're talking about a multi-story building, you are essentially talking about its different 'Etagen'. This word is crucial for navigation, real estate, and everyday conversations about living spaces.
Practicality
Imagine you are visiting a friend in a large apartment complex. They might text you, 'Ich wohne in der vierten Etage.' (I live on the fourth floor.) Or, if you are in a department store, signs might indicate 'Damenmode – zweite Etage' (Women's fashion – second floor). This word is not just for abstract descriptions; it's a practical term used daily. Understanding 'Etage' allows you to effectively communicate about spatial arrangements and directions within buildings, making your interactions in German-speaking environments much smoother. It’s a core vocabulary item for anyone living in or visiting a German-speaking country.
Beyond Apartments
The term 'Etage' isn't limited to residential buildings. Office buildings, hotels, hospitals, and even large retail spaces are described in terms of their floors. For instance, a company might announce its new headquarters: 'Unsere neue Niederlassung befindet sich in der zehnten Etage des Stadtzentrums.' (Our new branch is located on the tenth floor of the city center.) In a hotel, the receptionist might say, 'Ihr Zimmer ist in der obersten Etage, mit einem schönen Ausblick.' (Your room is on the top floor, with a beautiful view.) This highlights the versatility of the word. It's a fundamental unit of vertical division in any constructed space. Learning 'Etage' provides you with a key term for discussing location and organization in a multitude of practical scenarios. It’s a building block for understanding architectural descriptions and giving precise directions.

Die Wohnung ist in der dritten Etage.

Wir suchen ein Büro im Erdgeschoss oder in der ersten Etage.

Das Geschäft hat mehrere Etagen mit verschiedenen Abteilungen.

Basic Placement
'Etage' is a noun and functions similarly to its English counterparts. It can be the subject, object, or part of a prepositional phrase. When specifying a particular floor, it's often used with a preposition like 'in' (in/on) or 'auf' (on). For example, 'Die Wohnung ist in der zweiten Etage.' (The apartment is on the second floor.) Here, 'in der zweiten Etage' specifies the location. The article 'der' is used because 'Etage' is feminine and is in the dative case after the preposition 'in'.
Indicating Location
To say something is on a specific floor, you typically use the preposition 'in' followed by the dative case of the article and the floor number. 'Ich wohne in der dritten Etage.' (I live on the third floor.) If you are referring to a general location within a building that has multiple floors, you might say 'Das Büro ist in einer oberen Etage.' (The office is on an upper floor.) The use of 'einer' indicates an indefinite upper floor.
Asking About Location
When asking about the location of something within a building, you'll often use question words like 'Wo?' (Where?) and phrases involving 'Etage'. For instance, 'Auf welcher Etage ist das Restaurant?' (On which floor is the restaurant?) or 'Wo finde ich die Bibliothek? Ist sie im Erdgeschoss oder in einer höheren Etage?' (Where can I find the library? Is it on the ground floor or on a higher floor?). The preposition 'auf' can also be used, especially when referring to a specific level as a surface, though 'in' is more common for general location within a floor.
Describing Buildings
You can use 'Etage' to describe the size or structure of a building. 'Das Gebäude hat insgesamt fünf Etagen.' (The building has a total of five floors.) This tells you the vertical extent of the structure. You can also talk about specific floors being used for certain purposes: 'Die erste Etage ist für die Verwaltung reserviert.' (The first floor is reserved for administration.) Or, 'Im Keller gibt es keine Etagen, nur Räume.' (There are no floors in the basement, only rooms.) This distinction clarifies that 'Etage' refers to habitable levels above ground.
Connecting with other words
'Etage' is often combined with numbers, ordinal numbers (erste, zweite, etc.), and adjectives like 'oberste' (topmost), 'unterste' (lowest), 'nächste' (next), 'obere' (upper), and 'untere' (lower). For example, 'Wir wohnen in der obersten Etage.' (We live on the top floor.) or 'Die nächste Etage ist die Kantine.' (The next floor is the canteen.) It can also be used with words related to rooms or areas: 'Diese Etage ist für Büros vorgesehen.' (This floor is intended for offices.)

Das Hotel hat zehn Etagen.

Meine Wohnung befindet sich in der fünften Etage.

Wir treffen uns in der zweiten Etage, beim Café.

Auf welcher Etage ist die Bibliothek?

Die Wohnung im Erdgeschoss ist bereits vermietet, aber in der ersten Etage ist noch eine frei.

Real Estate Listings
When browsing for apartments or houses in German-speaking countries, 'Etage' is ubiquitous. Listings will almost always specify the floor. You'll see phrases like 'Wohnung im 3. Obergeschoss' (Apartment on the 3rd upper floor) or 'Erdgeschosswohnung' (Ground floor apartment), but more commonly, 'Die Wohnung befindet sich in der 2. Etage.' (The apartment is located on the 2nd floor.) Real estate agents and landlords will frequently use this term when describing properties. They might say, 'Diese schöne Wohnung liegt in einer ruhigen Etage.' (This beautiful apartment is on a quiet floor.) Understanding this context is vital for anyone looking to rent or buy property.
Hotel and Accommodation
In hotels, receptionists will tell you your room number and its corresponding floor. 'Ihr Zimmer ist die Nummer 512, das ist in der fünften Etage.' (Your room is number 512, that is on the fifth floor.) When asking for directions within a hotel, you might inquire, 'Wo ist das Restaurant? Ist es im Erdgeschoss oder in einer anderen Etage?' (Where is the restaurant? Is it on the ground floor or on another floor?). This is a standard term in the hospitality industry.
Office Environments
In office buildings, different departments or companies occupy specific floors. Colleagues might direct you: 'Die Marketingabteilung ist in der dritten Etage.' (The marketing department is on the third floor.) Visitors might be told, 'Bitte fahren Sie mit dem Aufzug in die sechste Etage.' (Please take the elevator to the sixth floor.) The concept of an 'Etage' is central to organizing and navigating large corporate spaces.
Public Buildings and Shops
Large department stores, libraries, museums, and government buildings are all described in terms of their 'Etagen'. Signs will guide you: 'Herrenbekleidung – vierte Etage' (Men's clothing – fourth floor). When asking for specific services, you might hear, 'Die Ausländerbehörde befindet sich in der zweiten Etage.' (The immigration office is located on the second floor.) This term is essential for understanding directions and locating services in any multi-story public space.
Everyday Conversations
Beyond formal contexts, friends might discuss their living situations: 'Wir sind gerade in die erste Etage gezogen.' (We just moved into the first floor.) Or when planning a visit: 'Ich bin heute Nachmittag zu Hause, in der dritten Etage.' (I'm home this afternoon, on the third floor.) It's a common, everyday word that helps people orient themselves and communicate spatial information clearly.

Beim Umzug haben wir die Möbel in die zweite Etage getragen.

Das Café ist im Erdgeschoss, aber die Toilette ist in der ersten Etage.

Der Arzt hat seine Praxis in der vierten Etage.

Entschuldigen Sie, wo ist die Garderobe? Ist sie auf dieser Etage?

Das Museum hat drei Etagen mit verschiedenen Ausstellungen.

Confusing 'Etage' with 'Stockwerk'
While 'Etage' and 'Stockwerk' are often used interchangeably and both mean 'floor' or 'storey', there can be subtle regional or stylistic preferences. 'Etage' is generally more common in everyday speech and in modern buildings, especially in urban areas. 'Stockwerk' might be perceived as slightly more formal or traditional. However, for learners, understanding that they are largely synonymous is key. The mistake would be to think they are completely different or to insist on using only one when the other is more appropriate in a specific context. For example, saying 'Das ist mein viertes Stockwerk' might sound a bit odd in some regions where 'Etage' is the norm for apartments.
Misunderstanding Ground Floor Numbering
A very common mistake for English speakers is to assume the ground floor is the 'first floor'. In German, the ground floor is consistently called 'Erdgeschoss'. The floor directly above it is the 'erste Etage' (first floor), the next one up is the 'zweite Etage' (second floor), and so on. So, if someone says their apartment is in the 'erste Etage', they mean the floor above the ground floor, not the ground floor itself. incorrectly referring to the ground floor as 'erste Etage' or the first floor above ground as 'zweite Etage' would be a significant error.
Incorrect Article or Case Usage
'Etage' is a feminine noun ('die Etage'). When used with prepositions like 'in' or 'auf' to indicate location, it takes the dative case. This means the article changes. For example, 'in der ersten Etage' (on the first floor) or 'auf der zweiten Etage' (on the second floor). Incorrectly using the nominative 'die erste Etage' in such contexts, or using the wrong dative article (e.g., 'in dem ersten Etage' or 'in den ersten Etage'), is a grammatical error. Learners often struggle with German cases, and this is a frequent pitfall.
Overusing 'Stockwerk' in specific contexts
While 'Stockwerk' is a valid synonym, in certain modern contexts, 'Etage' might be preferred. For example, in a contemporary office building description, using 'Etage' might sound more natural. Conversely, in very old buildings or certain historical descriptions, 'Stockwerk' might be more fitting. The mistake is not in using 'Stockwerk' itself, but in using it where 'Etage' is clearly the more common or expected term, potentially sounding slightly out of place or overly formal for the situation.
Confusing with Basement Levels
'Etage' typically refers to the levels of a building above ground. While sometimes the term might be stretched, it's generally not used for basements. Basements are usually referred to as 'Keller'. So, saying 'Die Wohnung ist in der Keller-Etage' would be incorrect. The correct way to refer to a basement apartment would be 'Die Wohnung ist im Keller' or 'Die Souterrainwohnung' (a French loanword sometimes used for basement apartments). Confusing 'Etage' with 'Keller' is a semantic error.

Incorrect: Die Wohnung ist in die erste Etage.

Correct: Die Wohnung ist in der ersten Etage.

Incorrect: Ich wohne im ersten Stock.

Correct (for floor above ground): Ich wohne in der ersten Etage.

Note: 'Erster Stock' can sometimes refer to the ground floor in certain contexts, but 'Erdgeschoss' is unambiguous for the ground floor.

Incorrect: Das Büro ist in Etage 5.

Correct: Das Büro ist in der fünften Etage.

Stockwerk
'Stockwerk' is the most direct synonym for 'Etage'. Both words mean 'floor' or 'storey' of a building. In many contexts, they are perfectly interchangeable. However, there can be subtle differences in usage or regional preference. 'Etage' is often perceived as more common in everyday, modern German, especially when referring to apartments or offices. 'Stockwerk' can sometimes sound a bit more formal or traditional, or might be used more frequently in certain regions or when discussing the structural aspects of a building. For instance, you might hear 'Das Gebäude hat fünf Stockwerke' (The building has five storeys) as a general statement about its construction, while 'Meine Wohnung ist in der fünften Etage' (My apartment is on the fifth floor) is more about the specific living space. For learners, it’s safe to use either, but be aware that 'Etage' might be slightly more prevalent in everyday conversation.
Geschoss
'Geschoss' is another word for 'floor' or 'storey', but it's often used in more technical or architectural contexts, or when referring to the overall number of floors in a building. It's particularly common when distinguishing between above-ground floors and basements. For example, 'Erdgeschoss' (ground floor) is a specific type of 'Geschoss'. 'Obergeschoss' refers to any floor above the ground floor. You might hear 'Das Haus hat drei Geschosse' (The house has three storeys). While it can be used similarly to 'Etage', it's less common for specifying the exact floor of a particular apartment or office in casual conversation. Think of 'Geschoss' as a more general term for a level within a building.
Ebene
'Ebene' translates to 'level' or 'plane'. While it can sometimes be used to refer to a floor, especially in larger, more complex buildings like shopping malls or exhibition centers, it's not a direct synonym for 'Etage' in the context of apartments or typical houses. 'Ebene' often implies a more abstract or functional level. For example, 'Die Information finden Sie auf der zweiten Ebene.' (You will find the information on the second level.) In a department store, you might hear 'Die Damenmode ist auf Ebene drei.' (Women's fashion is on level three.) It's less about the physical floor structure and more about a designated area or tier. It's important not to confuse 'Ebene' with 'Etage' when talking about residential floors.
Zimmer (Room)
While not a synonym, 'Zimmer' (room) is often discussed in relation to 'Etage'. For example, 'Mein Zimmer ist in der vierten Etage.' (My room is on the fourth floor.) A hotel room number often implies the floor: 'Sie sind im Zimmer 705, das ist in der siebten Etage.' (You are in room 705, that is on the seventh floor.) Here, 'Zimmer' refers to a specific unit, and 'Etage' refers to the level it's on. Understanding this relationship is helpful for giving and receiving directions.
Erdgeschoss (Ground Floor)
As mentioned before, 'Erdgeschoss' specifically denotes the ground floor. It is not an 'Etage' in the sense of being numbered 'erste', 'zweite', etc. It's the base level. So, if a building has an 'Erdgeschoss' and then 'erste Etage', 'zweite Etage', etc., it means the ground floor is distinct from the numbered floors above it. This is a crucial distinction to avoid confusion with English numbering systems.
Comparison Table
German Word English Meaning Usage Notes
Etage Floor, Storey Common, everyday, especially for apartments/offices.
Stockwerk Floor, Storey Synonym for Etage, can be more formal/traditional.
Geschoss Storey, Level More technical/architectural, general level.
Ebene Level, Plane Abstract level, often in malls, exhibitions. Not for apartments.
Erdgeschoss Ground Floor Specifically the ground level, distinct from numbered floors.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Die fragliche Liegenschaft verfügt über insgesamt sieben Etagen, wovon vier zu Wohnzwecken dienen."

Neutral

"Das Büro befindet sich in der vierten Etage des Gebäudes."

Informal

"Meine neue Bude ist im dritten Stock, voll cool!"

Child friendly

"Schau mal, das ist die erste Etage, da ist das Wohnzimmer."

Slang

"Die Party ist im Penthouse, ganz oben auf der obersten Etage."

Fun Fact

The concept of 'Etage' has evolved with architecture. Early buildings had fewer levels, and the distinction between ground floor and upper floors was simpler. As buildings grew taller, the need for precise terminology like 'Etage' became more important for navigation and description.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈɛtaʒə/
US /ˈɛtɑʒ/
First syllable: E-tage
Rhymes With
age stage wage page rage gaze haze maze phase craze
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the final 'e' like a hard 'g' (as in 'gate'). It should be a soft 'zh' sound.
  • Pronouncing the 'a' too long.
  • Misplacing the stress on the second syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Recognizing 'Etage' as 'floor' is straightforward. Understanding the numbering (Erdgeschoss vs. erste Etage) and grammatical cases (in der Etage) requires practice. Context often clarifies meaning.

Writing 2/5
Speaking 2/5
Listening 2/5

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Haus Wohnung Gebäude Zimmer Nummer oben unten erste zweite dritte

Learn Next

Stockwerk Geschoss Ebene Erdgeschoss Dachgeschoss Kellergeschoss Aufzug Treppe

Advanced

Architektur Immobilien Raumaufteilung vertikal horizontal Gliederung

Grammar to Know

Dative Case after Prepositions of Location

When indicating a static location (where something IS), prepositions like 'in' and 'auf' take the dative case. For 'Etage' (feminine), this means 'in der Etage' or 'auf der Etage'. Example: 'Die Katze sitzt in der ersten Etage.'

Accusative Case after Prepositions of Direction

When indicating movement TO a location, prepositions like 'in' and 'auf' take the accusative case. For 'Etage' (feminine), this means 'in die Etage' or 'auf die Etage'. Example: 'Wir ziehen in die dritte Etage.'

Ordinal Numbers

German ordinal numbers (erste, zweite, dritte, etc.) are used to specify floors. They decline like adjectives. Example: 'die erste Etage', 'in der zweiten Etage', 'auf der dritten Etage'.

Feminine Nouns

'Etage' is a feminine noun ('die Etage'). This affects the articles and adjective endings used with it. Example: 'eine gemütliche Etage', 'die helle Etage'.

Compound Nouns

German frequently forms compound nouns. 'Etage' is part of several: 'Dachgeschoss', 'Erdgeschoss', 'Kellergeschoss', etc. These often function as specific types of floors. Example: 'Das Erdgeschoss ist sehr geräumig.'

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Examples by Level

1

Die Wohnung ist in der zweiten Etage.

The apartment is on the second floor.

'Etage' is a feminine noun. 'Zweite' is the ordinal number for second. 'In der' is the dative case of 'in die' used for location.

2

Wir wohnen im Erdgeschoss.

We live on the ground floor.

'Erdgeschoss' is a neuter noun ('das Erdgeschoss'). 'Im' is a contraction of 'in dem', the dative case for location.

3

Auf welcher Etage ist das Büro?

On which floor is the office?

'Auf welcher Etage' is a question asking for the specific floor. 'Etage' is feminine.

4

Das Geschäft hat drei Etagen.

The shop has three floors.

'Etagen' is the plural of 'Etage'. 'Drei' is the number three.

5

Die Bibliothek ist in der ersten Etage.

The library is on the first floor.

'Erste Etage' refers to the floor above the ground floor.

6

Ich suche die Wohnung in der dritten Etage.

I am looking for the apartment on the third floor.

'Dritte' is the ordinal number for third. 'In der' indicates location in the dative case.

7

Das Hotel hat viele Etagen.

The hotel has many floors.

'Viele' means many. 'Etagen' is the plural form.

8

Die Wohnung ist nicht im Erdgeschoss.

The apartment is not on the ground floor.

'Nicht' is used to negate the location. 'Im Erdgeschoss' is the dative case.

1

Die Wohnung im Dachgeschoss ist sehr hell.

The apartment in the attic floor is very bright.

'Dachgeschoss' refers to the attic or top floor. It's a neuter noun.

2

Wir planen, in die zweite Etage umzuziehen.

We are planning to move to the second floor.

'In die zweite Etage' uses the accusative case because it indicates movement *to* a location.

3

Das Büro befindet sich in der obersten Etage.

The office is located on the top floor.

'Oberste Etage' means the topmost floor. 'Befindet sich' means is located.

4

Man kann vom Balkon der ersten Etage die Berge sehen.

One can see the mountains from the balcony of the first floor.

'Von der ersten Etage' uses the dative case after 'von' (from).

5

Die Wohnung ist großzügig geschnitten auf zwei Etagen.

The apartment is generously laid out over two floors.

'Auf zwei Etagen' indicates the space is spread across two levels.

6

Der Aufzug hält nicht in jeder Etage.

The elevator does not stop on every floor.

'In jeder Etage' means on every floor. 'Jeder' is a possessive pronoun.

7

Sie hat eine kleine Wohnung im vierten Stockwerk gemietet.

She rented a small apartment on the fourth floor.

'Stockwerk' is a synonym for 'Etage'. 'Vierten' is the ordinal number for fourth.

8

Die Wohnung wurde komplett renoviert, Etage für Etage.

The apartment was completely renovated, floor by floor.

'Etage für Etage' is an idiom meaning floor by floor.

1

Die architektonische Gestaltung des Gebäudes mit seinen unterschiedlichen Etagen ist bemerkenswert.

The architectural design of the building with its different floors is remarkable.

'Etagen' is used in a more descriptive, architectural sense.

2

Aufgrund der Hanglage des Grundstücks wirkt die unterste Etage wie ein Keller.

Due to the sloped location of the property, the lowest floor appears like a basement.

'Unterste Etage' refers to the lowest floor. 'Hanglage' means sloped location.

3

Die Wohnung erstreckt sich über die gesamte dritte und vierte Etage.

The apartment extends over the entire third and fourth floor.

'Erstreckt sich über' means extends over. 'Die gesamte' means the entire.

4

Die Mietpreise variieren je nach Etage und Ausblick.

The rental prices vary depending on the floor and the view.

'Je nach' means depending on. 'Ausblick' means view.

5

In vielen Altbauten sind die Deckenhöhen auf den unterschiedlichen Etagen variiert.

In many old buildings, the ceiling heights on the different floors have varied.

'Altbauten' means old buildings. 'Deckenhöhen' means ceiling heights.

6

Das oberste Stockwerk, das als Penthouse ausgebaut wurde, bietet einen atemberaubenden Panoramablick.

The top storey, which was converted into a penthouse, offers a breathtaking panoramic view.

'Stockwerk' is used here, again synonymous with 'Etage'. 'Penthouse' is a loanword.

7

Die Zugänglichkeit für Rollstuhlfahrer ist auf jeder Etage gewährleistet.

Accessibility for wheelchair users is ensured on every floor.

'Zugänglichkeit' means accessibility. 'Gewährleistet' means ensured.

8

Er lebte jahrelang in der gleichen Etage, bevor er sich vergrößern musste.

He lived on the same floor for years before he had to move to a larger place.

'Vergrößern' means to make larger, implying moving to a bigger apartment.

1

Die vertikale Gliederung des Gebäudes in klar definierte Etagen erleichtert die logistische Organisation.

The vertical division of the building into clearly defined floors facilitates logistical organization.

'Vertikale Gliederung' (vertical division), 'logistische Organisation' (logistical organization).

2

Die Sanierung sah vor, dass jede Etage einen eigenen Zugang zum Außenbereich erhalten sollte.

The renovation stipulated that each floor should receive its own access to the outdoor area.

'Sanierung' (renovation), 'vorsehen' (to stipulate/plan), 'Zugang zum Außenbereich' (access to the outdoor area).

3

Die Diskretion der Bewohner der oberen Etagen war stets gegeben.

The discretion of the residents on the upper floors was always present.

'Diskretion' (discretion), 'obere Etagen' (upper floors).

4

Es ist nicht ungewöhnlich, dass die Miete für die oberste Etage aufgrund des Ausblicks am höchsten ist.

It is not uncommon for the rent for the top floor to be the highest due to the view.

'Nicht ungewöhnlich' (not uncommon), 'höchste' (highest).

5

Die Anordnung der Büros auf den verschiedenen Etagen spiegelte die Hierarchie des Unternehmens wider.

The arrangement of offices on the different floors reflected the company's hierarchy.

'Anordnung' (arrangement), 'Hierarchie' (hierarchy), 'widerspiegeln' (to reflect).

6

Manche historischen Gebäude weisen noch die ursprüngliche Aufteilung in Stockwerke auf, die heute als Etagen genutzt werden.

Some historical buildings still show the original division into storeys, which are used as floors today.

'Ursprüngliche Aufteilung' (original division), 'Stockwerke' (storeys), 'genutzt werden' (are used).

7

Die Notwendigkeit, jede Etage mit moderner Infrastruktur auszustatten, stellte eine Herausforderung dar.

The necessity of equipping each floor with modern infrastructure presented a challenge.

'Notwendigkeit' (necessity), 'auszustatten' (to equip), 'Herausforderung' (challenge).

8

Die Wohnungen in den unteren Etagen sind aufgrund der Nähe zur Straße lauter.

The apartments on the lower floors are louder due to their proximity to the street.

'Unteren Etagen' (lower floors), 'Nähe zur Straße' (proximity to the street), 'lauter' (louder).

1

Die vertikale Ausdehnung des Bauwerks, unterteilt in funktionale Etagen, bildet die Grundlage seiner städtebaulichen Relevanz.

The vertical extent of the structure, divided into functional floors, forms the basis of its urban relevance.

'Vertikale Ausdehnung' (vertical extent), 'Bauwerk' (structure/edifice), 'städtebauliche Relevanz' (urban relevance).

2

Die architektonische Intention war, durch die staffelartige Anordnung der Etagen eine visuelle Dynamik zu erzeugen.

The architectural intention was to create visual dynamism through the staggered arrangement of the floors.

'Architektonische Intention' (architectural intention), 'staffelartige Anordnung' (staggered arrangement), 'visuelle Dynamik' (visual dynamism).

3

Die Problematik der Schallisolierung zwischen den einzelnen Etagen erforderte innovative bautechnische Lösungen.

The problem of sound insulation between the individual floors required innovative construction engineering solutions.

'Schallisolierung' (sound insulation), 'bautechnische Lösungen' (construction engineering solutions).

4

Die Equitable Verteilung der Wohnflächen über die verschiedenen Etagen war ein zentrales Anliegen des Architekten.

The equitable distribution of living spaces across the different floors was a central concern of the architect.

'Equitable Verteilung' (equitable distribution), 'Wohnflächen' (living spaces), 'zentrales Anliegen' (central concern).

5

Die Rekonstruktion sah die Wiederherstellung jeder einzelnen Etage nach historischen Vorbildern vor.

The reconstruction envisioned the restoration of each individual floor according to historical models.

'Rekonstruktion' (reconstruction), 'Wiederherstellung' (restoration), 'historische Vorbilder' (historical models).

6

Die Exposition des obersten Stockwerks gegenüber Witterungseinflüssen machte eine besonders robuste Bauweise unerlässlich.

The exposure of the top storey to weather influences made a particularly robust construction method essential.

'Exposition gegenüber' (exposure to), 'Witterungseinflüssen' (weather influences), 'robuste Bauweise' (robust construction).

7

Die Subtilität der Raumaufteilung auf den einzelnen Etagen trug zur exklusiven Atmosphäre des Anwesens bei.

The subtlety of the room layout on the individual floors contributed to the exclusive atmosphere of the property.

'Subtilität' (subtlety), 'Raumaufteilung' (room layout), 'exklusive Atmosphäre' (exclusive atmosphere), 'Anwesen' (property/estate).

8

Die vertikale Mobilität zwischen den Etagen wurde durch ein ausgeklügeltes System von Treppen und Aufzügen gewährleistet.

Vertical mobility between the floors was ensured by a sophisticated system of stairs and elevators.

'Vertikale Mobilität' (vertical mobility), 'ausgeklügeltes System' (sophisticated system).

Common Collocations

in der ersten Etage
die zweite Etage
die oberste Etage
mehrere Etagen
auf welcher Etage
die Wohnung im Erdgeschoss
die Wohnung im Dachgeschoss
eine obere Etage
die unterste Etage
Etage für Etage

Common Phrases

in der ersten Etage

— On the first floor (above ground).

Die Bäckerei ist in der ersten Etage.

auf welcher Etage?

— On which floor?

Entschuldigung, auf welcher Etage ist die Toilette?

das Erdgeschoss

— The ground floor.

Der Eingang zum Gebäude ist im Erdgeschoss.

die oberste Etage

— The top floor.

Wir wohnen in der obersten Etage, das ist schön ruhig.

mehrere Etagen

— Several floors.

Das Museum erstreckt sich über mehrere Etagen.

eine Wohnung im Dachgeschoss

— An apartment in the attic/top floor.

Sie hat eine charmante Wohnung im Dachgeschoss gefunden.

die unterste Etage

— The lowest floor.

Die Technikräume befinden sich in der untersten Etage.

Etage um Etage

— Floor by floor (often used metaphorically for progression).

Er arbeitete sich Etage um Etage nach oben.

eine obere Etage

— An upper floor.

Für mich ist eine obere Etage besser, wegen der Ruhe.

die Wohnung ist...

— The apartment is...

Die Wohnung ist in der dritten Etage und sehr hell.

Often Confused With

Etage vs Stockwerk

'Stockwerk' is a direct synonym for 'Etage' and often interchangeable. The main difference is subtle regional preference or formality. 'Etage' is generally more common in everyday speech.

Etage vs Erdgeschoss

'Erdgeschoss' specifically means the ground floor, whereas 'Etage' typically refers to floors above the ground floor. Confusing them leads to incorrect numbering.

Etage vs Ebene

'Ebene' means 'level' and is used for floors in malls or exhibition centers, but not typically for apartments or standard office floors where 'Etage' is preferred.

Idioms & Expressions

"Etage für Etage"

— Floor by floor; gradually, step by step.

Sie hat das Projekt Etage für Etage vorangetrieben.

Neutral
"auf einer höheren Etage leben"

— To live on a higher floor (can sometimes imply a higher social status or better view, but usually literal).

Seit dem Umzug leben sie auf einer höheren Etage mit besserer Aussicht.

Neutral
"sich in der gleichen Etage befinden"

— To be on the same floor (literally or figuratively, e.g., in terms of rank or development).

In Bezug auf ihre Fähigkeiten befinden sich beide Mitarbeiter auf der gleichen Etage.

Neutral/Figurative
"die unterste Etage bewohnen"

— To live on the lowest floor (often the ground floor or basement, can sometimes imply a less desirable position).

Die Familie mit den vielen Kindern bewohnt die unterste Etage.

Neutral
"in der obersten Etage residieren"

— To reside on the top floor (often implies luxury or exclusivity).

Der Millionär residiert in der obersten Etage des Wolkenkratzers.

Formal/Figurative
"eine Etage tiefer/höher"

— One floor lower/higher.

Das Geschäft ist eine Etage tiefer als erwartet.

Neutral
"auf allen Etagen"

— On all floors.

Es gab Probleme auf allen Etagen des Unternehmens.

Neutral
"vom Erdgeschoss bis zur obersten Etage"

— From the ground floor to the top floor.

Das Feuer breitete sich vom Erdgeschoss bis zur obersten Etage aus.

Neutral
"eine Etage über/unter..."

— One floor above/below...

Meine Wohnung ist eine Etage über Ihrer.

Neutral
"die Etagen wechseln"

— To change floors (literally, by stairs or elevator).

Wir mussten mehrmals die Etagen wechseln, um alles zu finden.

Neutral

Easily Confused

Etage vs Stockwerk

Both 'Etage' and 'Stockwerk' mean floor or storey.

'Etage' is generally considered more common in everyday conversation, especially for apartments and offices. 'Stockwerk' can sound slightly more formal or be preferred in certain regions or architectural contexts. For practical purposes, they are often interchangeable.

Meine Wohnung ist in der zweiten Etage. / Meine Wohnung ist im zweiten Stockwerk.

Etage vs Erdgeschoss

It's a type of floor, but with a distinct name and numbering convention.

'Erdgeschoss' is specifically the ground floor. 'Erste Etage' is the floor *above* the ground floor. Confusing them leads to an off-by-one error in floor numbering. Always remember: Erdgeschoss (ground), erste Etage (first above ground), zweite Etage (second above ground), etc.

Incorrect: 'Ich wohne in der Erdgeschoss.' Correct: 'Ich wohne im Erdgeschoss.' Incorrect: 'Die Wohnung ist in der ersten Etage.' (if referring to ground floor). Correct: 'Die Wohnung ist in der ersten Etage.' (if referring to the floor above ground).

Etage vs Ebene

Both refer to levels within a structure.

'Ebene' is more general and often used for functional levels in large public spaces like shopping malls, exhibition halls, or conference centers ('Ebene 1', 'Ebene 2'). 'Etage' is the standard term for floors in residential buildings, hotels, and typical office buildings. You wouldn't usually say 'Meine Wohnung ist auf der dritten Ebene'.

In a shopping mall: 'Die Drogerie ist auf Ebene 2.' In an apartment building: 'Die Wohnung ist in der zweiten Etage.'

Etage vs Geschoss

Also means storey or floor.

'Geschoss' is a more technical or architectural term. It's often used when talking about the total number of levels in a building ('Das Haus hat drei Geschosse') or distinguishing between above-ground ('Obergeschoss') and below-ground ('Untergeschoss'/'Kellergeschoss'). While it can be a synonym for 'Etage', 'Etage' is more common for specifying a particular apartment or office floor in everyday speech.

Architectural plan: 'Das Gebäude besteht aus fünf Geschossen.' Everyday conversation: 'Wir suchen eine Wohnung in der fünften Etage.'

Etage vs Zimmer

Both relate to spaces within a building.

'Zimmer' means 'room', a specific enclosed space within a floor. 'Etage' refers to the entire floor level. A room is *on* an 'Etage'. You wouldn't say 'Meine Wohnung ist ein Zimmer', but 'Meine Wohnung hat drei Zimmer und ist in der dritten Etage'.

Ich habe ein großes Zimmer in der dritten Etage.

Sentence Patterns

A2

Subject + verb + in der + [Ordinal Number] + Etage.

Meine Wohnung ist in der zweiten Etage.

A2

Wo ist + [Noun]? + Ist es im Erdgeschoss oder in der [Ordinal Number] Etage?

Wo ist die Bibliothek? Ist es im Erdgeschoss oder in der ersten Etage?

A2

Das [Noun] hat [Number] Etagen.

Das Haus hat drei Etagen.

B1

Wir ziehen in die [Ordinal Number] Etage.

Wir ziehen in die vierte Etage.

B1

Das [Noun] befindet sich in der [Adjective] Etage.

Das Büro befindet sich in der obersten Etage.

B2

Die Wohnung erstreckt sich über die [Ordinal Number] und [Ordinal Number] Etage.

Die Wohnung erstreckt sich über die dritte und vierte Etage.

B2

Die Mietpreise variieren je nach Etage.

Die Mietpreise variieren je nach Etage und Ausblick.

C1

Die [Adjective] Gliederung des Gebäudes in definierte Etagen...

Die vertikale Gliederung des Gebäudes in definierte Etagen erleichtert die Organisation.

Word Family

Nouns

Related

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How to Use It

frequency

Very high

Common Mistakes
  • Confusing 'erste Etage' with the ground floor. → The ground floor is 'Erdgeschoss'. 'Erste Etage' is the floor above the ground floor.

    English speakers often map 'first floor' directly to 'erste Etage'. In German, 'Erdgeschoss' is distinct, and 'erste Etage' is the level above it. This is a fundamental difference in numbering.

  • Incorrect case usage (e.g., 'in die Etage' for location). → 'in der Etage' for location (dative case).

    When stating where something is (static location), the preposition 'in' requires the dative case. For the feminine noun 'Etage', this means 'in der Etage'. Using the accusative 'in die Etage' implies movement.

  • Pronouncing the final 'ge' as a hard 'g'. → Pronounce the final 'ge' like the 's' in 'measure' or 'pleasure' (a 'zh' sound).

    The French origin of the word influences its pronunciation. The 'ge' at the end is not a hard 'g' but a soft 'zh' sound, similar to the 's' in 'vision'.

  • Using 'Etage' for basement levels. → Basements are called 'Keller' or 'Kellergeschoss'.

    'Etage' typically refers to floors above ground. While 'Kellergeschoss' is a type of floor level, 'Etage' is generally not used for basements. Using 'Etage' for a basement would be incorrect.

  • Confusing 'Etage' with 'Ebene' in apartment contexts. → Use 'Etage' for apartments and standard office floors.

    'Ebene' means 'level' and is more common for floors in large public spaces like malls or exhibition centers. For residential or typical office floors, 'Etage' is the correct and standard term.

Tips

Mastering the 'ge' sound

The ending '-ge' in 'Etage' is pronounced like the 's' in 'measure' or 'pleasure' (a soft 'zh' sound), not like the 'g' in 'gate'. Practice saying 'e-TA-zhe' with the stress on the second syllable.

Dative Case for Location

When you state where something IS, use the dative case after prepositions like 'in'. For 'Etage' (feminine), this means 'in der Etage'. For example: 'Das Geschäft ist in der zweiten Etage.'

Ground Floor Distinction

Always remember that the ground floor is 'Erdgeschoss', not 'erste Etage'. 'Erste Etage' is the floor above the ground floor. This is crucial for understanding directions and addresses.

Synonym Awareness

While 'Stockwerk' is a synonym, 'Etage' is generally more common in everyday conversation for apartments and offices. Be aware of regional preferences, but 'Etage' is widely understood.

Visual Association

Picture a tall building with distinct levels. Each level is an 'Etage'. Imagine climbing these levels, or 'stages', to remember the word and its meaning.

Real Estate Relevance

You'll hear 'Etage' constantly when looking at apartments or houses in German-speaking countries. Practice phrases like 'in der X. Etage' to get comfortable.

Ordinal Numbers are Key

Floors are almost always referred to with ordinal numbers (erste, zweite, dritte...). Practice using these numbers correctly with 'Etage' and the dative case.

Beyond Apartments

Don't limit 'Etage' to just apartments. It's used for offices, shops, hotels, and any multi-story building. Think of it as the standard term for a 'floor'.

Avoiding Case Errors

A frequent mistake is using the wrong case. For location, it's 'in der Etage' (dative). For movement, it's 'in die Etage' (accusative). Pay close attention to articles and endings.

Speak It Out

Actively use 'Etage' when describing places or asking for directions. The more you say it in context, the more natural it will become.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine an 'attic' (which sounds a bit like 'Etage') where you store your belongings. The attic is on the top floor of your house. So, 'Etage' is the floor you live on, like your attic floor.

Visual Association

Picture a tall building with clearly numbered floors. Each floor is a distinct 'Etage'. You can visualize yourself climbing the stairs, going up one 'Etage' at a time.

Word Web

Building Floor Level Storey Apartment House Office Hotel Number Location Height Upstairs Downstairs Ground floor Top floor Basement

Challenge

Try to describe your current living situation or your dream home using the word 'Etage'. For example, 'Meine Wohnung ist im dritten Stock' or 'Ich möchte in der obersten Etage wohnen'.

Word Origin

The German word 'Etage' is a loanword from French. It comes from the Old French word 'estage', which itself derives from the Latin word 'staticum', meaning 'a standing place' or 'a position'. This Latin root is related to the verb 'stare', meaning 'to stand'.

Original meaning: In its original French context, 'étage' also meant a floor or storey of a building, a level, or a tier. The meaning has been directly adopted into German.

Germanic (loanword from Romance/Latin)

Cultural Context

When discussing housing or locations, be mindful of socioeconomic implications. While 'Etage' itself is neutral, living on a lower floor might sometimes be associated with lower rent or noise, while higher floors can imply better views or higher costs. However, these are generalizations and not absolute rules.

In English, we use 'floor' or 'storey'. The numbering convention can differ (e.g., ground floor vs. first floor), which is a common point of confusion for learners of German.

The saying 'Wer nicht mit der Zeit geht, geht mit der Zeit' (He who does not go with the times, goes out with the times) can be metaphorically applied to buildings and their levels. Older buildings might have different 'Etagen' than modern ones. In literature or film, descriptions of apartments or offices often mention the 'Etage' to establish setting and atmosphere. For example, a detective might search for clues on a specific 'Etage'. The concept of a 'penthouse' apartment, often located on the 'oberste Etage' (top floor), is internationally recognized and also applicable in German contexts.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Renting or buying an apartment

  • Auf welcher Etage ist die Wohnung?
  • Ich suche eine Wohnung im Erdgeschoss.
  • Die Wohnung ist in der dritten Etage.
  • Ist die Wohnung hell?

Asking for directions in a building

  • Wo ist die Toilette?
  • Ist das im Erdgeschoss oder auf einer anderen Etage?
  • Der Aufzug hält nicht in jeder Etage.
  • Gehen Sie die Treppe hoch zur zweiten Etage.

Describing a hotel room

  • Mein Zimmer ist die Nummer 512.
  • Das ist in der fünften Etage.
  • Hat das Zimmer einen Balkon?
  • Ich möchte lieber eine höhere Etage.

Talking about offices or shops

  • Die Marketingabteilung ist in der dritten Etage.
  • Das Geschäft hat mehrere Etagen.
  • Wo finde ich die Damenbekleidung?
  • Das Restaurant ist im Erdgeschoss.

General descriptions of buildings

  • Das Gebäude hat zehn Etagen.
  • Wir wohnen in einem alten Haus mit vier Etagen.
  • Die Wohnung im Dachgeschoss ist sehr gemütlich.
  • Die unterste Etage wird für Lagerung genutzt.

Conversation Starters

"What floor do you live on?"

"Do you prefer living on a higher or lower floor?"

"What's the most interesting building you've seen with many floors?"

"If you could design your dream apartment, on which floor would it be?"

"Do you find it easy to navigate large buildings with many floors?"

Journal Prompts

Describe your current living situation, including the floor you live on and any notable features of that floor.

Imagine you are looking for a new apartment. What floor would be ideal for you and why?

Think about a memorable building you've visited. Describe its different floors and what was on each.

If buildings could talk, what stories would the different floors tell?

How does the floor level of an apartment or office affect your perception of it?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Both 'Etage' and 'Stockwerk' mean 'floor' or 'storey' of a building. They are largely interchangeable in everyday German. However, 'Etage' is generally more common and modern, especially when referring to apartments or offices. 'Stockwerk' can sometimes sound a bit more formal or traditional, or might be preferred in certain regional dialects or when discussing the structural aspects of a building. For learners, using 'Etage' is usually a safe bet in most common situations.

No, this is a very common point of confusion for English speakers. The ground floor in German is called 'Erdgeschoss'. The floor directly above the ground floor is the 'erste Etage' (first floor), the next one up is the 'zweite Etage' (second floor), and so on. So, 'erste Etage' corresponds to the English 'first floor' (not the ground floor).

You can say 'die Etagennummer' or simply ask 'Auf welcher Etage?' (On which floor?). When referring to a specific floor, you typically use the preposition 'in' with the dative case: 'in der ersten Etage', 'in der zweiten Etage', etc.

Yes, 'Etage' is a general term for a floor and can be used for houses, apartment buildings, office buildings, hotels, department stores, and most multi-story structures. It's a very versatile word in this context.

The plural of 'Etage' is 'Etagen'.

The most common preposition used with 'Etage' to indicate location is 'in', followed by the dative case: 'in der ersten Etage'. 'Auf' can also be used, but 'in' is more frequent for general location within a floor. For movement, you use the accusative case: 'in die dritte Etage'.

'Etage' is a feminine noun, so its definite article is 'die'.

Yes, the most common synonyms are 'Stockwerk' and 'Geschoss'. 'Ebene' is also used in specific contexts (like shopping malls). 'Erdgeschoss' is the ground floor, and 'Dachgeschoss' is the attic/top floor.

You would typically use 'Ebene' for levels in large public spaces like shopping centers, exhibition halls, or conference centers (e.g., 'Ebene 1', 'Ebene 2'). 'Etage' is the standard for apartments, houses, and most offices.

This phrase means 'floor by floor' or 'step by step'. It can be used literally for renovations or figuratively for gradual progress.

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This Word in Other Languages

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