Konkurs in 30 Seconds
- Konkurs: German for bankruptcy.
- Used for individuals or companies unable to pay debts.
- Implies a formal legal process of financial failure.
- Key term in business and legal contexts.
The German word 'Konkurs' primarily refers to the state of being bankrupt. This means a person or, more commonly, a company is unable to pay its debts and has to cease operations. It's a serious financial situation that often leads to the liquidation of assets to cover outstanding obligations. In everyday German, 'Konkurs' is used when discussing financial difficulties, business failures, or the legal process of declaring bankruptcy.
- Primary Meaning
- Bankruptcy, insolvency, the state of being unable to meet financial obligations.
- Contexts of Use
- Often used in business and financial news, legal discussions, and when talking about economic hardship. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a complete failure or collapse in other areas, although this is less common than its financial meaning.
Die Firma meldete nach Jahren der Verluste Konkurs an.
While 'Konkurs' is the most direct translation for bankruptcy, especially in a legal or formal business context, other related terms might be used depending on the nuance. For instance, 'Insolvenz' is also very common and often used interchangeably. The concept of 'Konkurs' implies a formal legal procedure where a court oversees the distribution of assets to creditors. It’s a significant event with far-reaching consequences for the individuals or entities involved.
- Legal Implications
- Filing for Konkurs often involves a formal legal process, appointing a trustee or administrator to manage the company's assets and debts. This process aims to provide a structured way to deal with insolvency and protect creditors to some extent.
- Broader Usage
- While its primary meaning is financial, you might hear 'Konkurs' used metaphorically to describe the end or collapse of something, like a project or a relationship, though this is less common and might sound a bit dramatic.
Das Projekt ging nach einem Jahr voller Probleme in den Konkurs.
Understanding 'Konkurs' is crucial for anyone engaging with German business or economic news. It signifies a definitive end to a business's financial viability, often leading to significant restructuring or closure. The term carries a strong sense of finality and economic distress.
- Financial Impact
- When a company declares Konkurs, it affects not only the owners and employees but also creditors, suppliers, and potentially the wider economy. It's a situation that requires careful management and legal oversight.
Die Ankündigung des Konkurss löste Besorgnis bei den Mitarbeitern aus.
Using 'Konkurs' correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and the typical contexts in which it appears. It is a masculine noun, so it takes the masculine article 'der' in its nominative case. When discussing the act of declaring bankruptcy, common verbs like 'anmelden' (to register/declare) or 'geraten' (to fall into) are frequently used with 'Konkurs'.
- Declaring Bankruptcy
- The most common way to use 'Konkurs' is in the context of a company or individual officially declaring bankruptcy. This is often done by using the phrase 'Konkurs anmelden' (to declare bankruptcy) or 'Konkurs beantragen' (to apply for bankruptcy).
Das Unternehmen musste Konkurs anmelden, da es seine Schulden nicht mehr bezahlen konnte.
Another common phrasing is 'in Konkurs geraten' or 'in Konkurs gehen', which means to go bankrupt or to fall into bankruptcy. This emphasizes the process or the state of being in financial ruin.
- Being in Bankruptcy
- Sentences often describe the state of a company or person being bankrupt, using phrases like 'ist im Konkurs' (is in bankruptcy) or 'steht vor dem Konkurs' (is facing bankruptcy).
Viele kleine Geschäfte sind während der Wirtschaftskrise in den Konkurs geraten.
The word can also be used to refer to the proceedings or the state itself. For example, one might talk about the 'Konkursverfahren' (bankruptcy proceedings) or the 'Folgen des Konkurs' (consequences of bankruptcy).
- Consequences and Proceedings
- Discussions might revolve around the legal aspects, the financial impact, or the future outlook after a bankruptcy declaration.
Der Konkurs des Unternehmens hatte Auswirkungen auf Hunderte von Gläubigern.
In metaphorical usage, 'Konkurs' can describe a complete failure or collapse. While less common, it adds a dramatic flair to descriptions of downfall.
- Metaphorical Use
- This usage is more figurative and less frequent, implying a total collapse or ruin in non-financial contexts.
Nach dem Skandal ging die Karriere des Schauspielers in den Konkurs.
You will most frequently encounter the word 'Konkurs' in formal settings related to business, finance, and law in German-speaking countries. News reports about the economy, especially those detailing company failures or financial crises, are a primary source. Financial journalists and analysts use 'Konkurs' when discussing economic downturns and their impact.
- Business and Finance News
- Major German news outlets like Der Spiegel, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, or Handelsblatt will often use 'Konkurs' when reporting on companies that are facing or have declared insolvency.
Die Wirtschaftsnachrichten berichteten ausführlich über den Konkurs der Fluggesellschaft.
Legal professionals, such as lawyers and judges, use 'Konkurs' in the context of bankruptcy proceedings. Court documents, legal advice, and discussions about insolvency law will invariably feature this term. If you are involved in business dealings or legal matters in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, you are likely to hear or read 'Konkurs'.
- Legal and Official Documents
- Official announcements from courts, insolvency administrators, and legal firms concerning bankruptcy cases will use 'Konkurs' as the standard term.
Das Konkursverfahren für die Baufirma wurde eingeleitet.
In academic settings, particularly in economics, business administration, and law faculties, 'Konkurs' is a fundamental term. Lectures, textbooks, and academic papers discussing corporate finance, financial distress, and economic policy will use it extensively. Students learning these subjects will encounter it frequently.
- Academic Discourse
- University courses and literature on finance, economics, and law will thoroughly cover the concept and terminology of Konkurs.
Die Vorlesung behandelte die Ursachen und Folgen eines Konkurses.
While less common, you might also hear the word in more informal conversations among people discussing financial struggles, perhaps a friend lamenting a business failure or a news discussion about economic hardship. However, its primary domain remains the formal and professional sphere.
- Informal discussions (less common)
- In casual conversations, people might refer to a business that has closed down due to financial problems using 'Konkurs', although more colloquial terms might also be used.
Hast du gehört, dass der Laden um die Ecke Konkurs gemacht hat?
Learners of German might make a few common mistakes when using the word 'Konkurs'. One frequent error is confusing it with similar-sounding words or misapplying its grammatical gender. Another mistake is using it in contexts where a less formal or different financial term would be more appropriate.
- Confusing with Similar Words
- Sometimes learners might confuse 'Konkurs' with words like 'Konzer' (a type of concert) or other words starting with 'kon-'. The meaning is entirely different, so careful pronunciation and context are key.
MISTAKE: Die Firma ging in den Konzer.
A more significant error is misusing the grammatical gender. 'Konkurs' is masculine ('der Konkurs'). Incorrectly using articles like 'die Konkurs' or 'das Konkurs' would be grammatically wrong and sound unnatural to a native speaker.
- Incorrect Grammatical Gender
- Always remember 'der Konkurs'. Using the wrong article is a common grammatical error for learners.
MISTAKE: Die Konkurs war unvermeidlich.
Another potential pitfall is using 'Konkurs' in situations where 'Insolvenz' might be more appropriate or is commonly used interchangeably. While 'Konkurs' often implies a formal legal process, 'Insolvenz' can refer more broadly to the state of being insolvent. In many contexts, they are used synonymously, but being aware of both is beneficial.
- Overuse or Misapplication
- Sometimes learners might use 'Konkurs' for any minor financial trouble, when a more specific term or a less severe description would be better. Also, confusing it with 'Insolvenz' can happen.
CORRECT: Das Unternehmen ist zahlungsunfähig und muss Insolvenz anmelden.
ALSO CORRECT: Das Unternehmen musste Konkurs anmelden.
Finally, learners might try to use 'Konkurs' metaphorically too often or in situations where it sounds too strong or inappropriate. While it can be used for a general collapse, its primary and most common meaning is financial bankruptcy, so this metaphorical usage should be reserved for specific, often dramatic, contexts.
- Metaphorical Misuse
- Using 'Konkurs' to describe minor failures or everyday setbacks can sound overly dramatic and is generally not how the word is used colloquially.
MISTAKE: Mein Computer hat Konkurs gemacht.
In German, several words are related to 'Konkurs', often differing in nuance, formality, or specific legal implications. Understanding these alternatives can help you express yourself more precisely.
- Insolvenz
- This is perhaps the most common alternative and is often used interchangeably with 'Konkurs'. 'Insolvenz' refers to the state of being unable to pay debts. While 'Konkurs' often implies a formal legal process of liquidation, 'Insolvenz' can be a broader term for financial distress. Many legal frameworks now use 'Insolvenz' as the overarching term, with 'Konkurs' sometimes referring to a specific type of insolvency proceeding (e.g., liquidation).
Konkurs: Der Fall war ein klassischer Konkurs mit Zwangsverwertung.
Insolvenz: Die Firma kämpfte monatelang mit ihrer Insolvenz.
- Zahlungsunfähigkeit
- Literally meaning 'inability to pay', this term describes the financial condition that leads to bankruptcy. It is more descriptive of the state of not being able to meet financial obligations, whereas 'Konkurs' refers to the formal process or outcome. 'Zahlungsunfähigkeit' is often a prerequisite for declaring 'Konkurs' or 'Insolvenz'.
Konkurs: Nach der Konkursanmeldung wurden die Vermögenswerte verkauft.
Zahlungsunfähigkeit: Die Zahlungsunfähigkeit zwang das Unternehmen zur Insolvenzanmeldung.
- Liquidation
- This term, often used in English, corresponds to the process of winding up a company's affairs and selling its assets to pay off debts. In German, this process is often part of a 'Konkursverfahren' and might be referred to as 'Liquidation' or 'Zwangsverwertung' (forced sale). 'Konkurs' itself can imply this liquidation process.
Konkurs: Der Konkurs führte zur Schließung des Betriebs.
Liquidation: Die Liquidation der Firma dauerte mehrere Monate.
- Pleite
- This is a more colloquial and informal term for being broke or bankrupt. It's commonly used in everyday conversation but is not appropriate for formal business or legal contexts where 'Konkurs' or 'Insolvenz' would be used. 'Pleite gehen' means to go broke.
Konkurs: Das Unternehmen meldete Konkurs an.
Pleite: Der kleine Laden ist leider pleite gegangen.
- Konkursmasse
- This refers to the assets that form the 'bankruptcy estate' – everything that belongs to the bankrupt entity and is available to be distributed to creditors. It's a specific term within the context of bankruptcy proceedings.
Konkurs: Der Konkurs wurde eröffnet.
Konkursmasse: Die Konkursmasse wurde versteigert.
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
Interestingly, the German verb 'konkurrieren' (to compete) shares the same Latin root 'concursus'. The idea of 'running together' or 'colliding' can be seen in both competition (businesses vying against each other) and bankruptcy (where financial interests collide leading to a formal process).
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'o' as long or diphthongized.
- Not using a guttural 'r'.
- Pronouncing the final 's' as an unvoiced 's' instead of a 'z'.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR A2/B1. The word itself is relatively straightforward, but understanding its financial and legal implications requires context. Reading about financial news or legal documents involving 'Konkurs' can be challenging for lower-level learners.
CEFR A2/B1. Using 'Konkurs' correctly in writing, especially in formal contexts, requires understanding its grammatical gender, collocations, and the specific nuance of bankruptcy.
CEFR A2/B1. Pronouncing 'Konkurs' correctly and using it in spoken sentences, particularly in discussions about finance or business, is moderately challenging.
CEFR A2/B1. Recognizing 'Konkurs' in spoken German, especially in news reports or formal discussions, requires a good ear for pronunciation and contextual understanding.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Genitive Case after Prepositions
Wegen des Konkurses musste die Firma schließen. (Because of the bankruptcy, the company had to close.)
Dative Case after 'führen zu'
Die schlechte Planung führte zu einem Konkurs. (The poor planning led to bankruptcy.)
Verb + Noun Collocations
Die Firma meldet Konkurs an. (The company declares bankruptcy.)
Modal Verbs with 'müssen'
Die Firma musste Konkurs anmelden. (The company had to declare bankruptcy.)
Passive Voice
Der Konkurs wurde vom Gericht angeordnet. (The bankruptcy was ordered by the court.)
Examples by Level
Das Geschäft ist kaputt.
The shop is broken/finished.
Simple past tense, basic vocabulary.
Er hat kein Geld mehr.
He has no more money.
Possession with 'haben', negation with 'kein'.
Die Firma ist nicht mehr da.
The company is no longer there.
Simple present tense, indicating absence.
Sie können nicht bezahlen.
They cannot pay.
Modal verb 'können' with negation.
Alles ist weg.
Everything is gone.
Simple statement of loss.
Das ist ein Problem.
That is a problem.
Basic sentence structure.
Sie haben alles verloren.
They have lost everything.
Perfect tense of 'verlieren'.
Die Bank hat Probleme.
The bank has problems.
Simple present tense, possession.
Die Firma meldet Konkurs an.
The company is declaring bankruptcy.
Present tense, verb 'anmelden' with noun 'Konkurs'.
Viele Leute haben ihr Geld verloren.
Many people have lost their money.
Perfect tense of 'verlieren'.
Das Geschäft ist nicht mehr geöffnet.
The shop is no longer open.
Present tense, negation with 'nicht mehr'.
Sie können ihre Rechnungen nicht bezahlen.
They cannot pay their bills.
Modal verb 'können' with object 'Rechnungen'.
Der Konkurs war unvermeidlich.
The bankruptcy was unavoidable.
Past tense of 'sein', noun 'Konkurs'.
Das Unternehmen geht in den Konkurs.
The company is going into bankruptcy.
Verb 'gehen' with prepositional phrase 'in den Konkurs'.
Er ist jetzt arbeitslos wegen des Konkurses.
He is now unemployed because of the bankruptcy.
Preposition 'wegen' with genitive case of 'Konkurs'.
Die Gläubiger warten auf ihr Geld.
The creditors are waiting for their money.
Present tense, noun 'Gläubiger'.
Nach langen Verhandlungen musste die Firma Konkurs anmelden.
After long negotiations, the company had to declare bankruptcy.
Past tense of 'müssen', infinitive clause.
Die wirtschaftliche Lage führte zum Konkurs vieler kleiner Betriebe.
The economic situation led to the bankruptcy of many small businesses.
Past tense of 'führen zu' + dative case.
Der Konkurs eines großen Unternehmens kann weitreichende Folgen haben.
The bankruptcy of a large company can have far-reaching consequences.
Genitive case for possession.
Es ist wichtig, die rechtlichen Aspekte eines Konkursverfahrens zu verstehen.
It is important to understand the legal aspects of bankruptcy proceedings.
Noun 'Konkursverfahren', infinitive clause.
Die Angestellten hoffen auf eine Rettung, doch der Konkurs scheint unausweichlich.
The employees hope for a rescue, but bankruptcy seems unavoidable.
Subordinate clause with 'doch'.
Er hat durch den Konkurs seiner Firma alles verloren.
He lost everything through the bankruptcy of his company.
Preposition 'durch' + accusative case.
Die Ankündigung des Konkurses führte zu Panik unter den Investoren.
The announcement of the bankruptcy led to panic among the investors.
Genitive case of 'Konkurs'.
Es gibt verschiedene Arten von Konkursverfahren, je nach Land und Gesetzgebung.
There are different types of bankruptcy proceedings, depending on the country and legislation.
Plural noun 'Arten', preposition 'je nach'.
Die anhaltende Krise zwang das Unternehmen, trotz aller Bemühungen, Konkurs anzumelden.
The ongoing crisis forced the company, despite all efforts, to declare bankruptcy.
Participle clause 'trotz aller Bemühungen'.
Ein Konkurs kann für die betroffenen Aktionäre erhebliche finanzielle Verluste bedeuten.
Bankruptcy can mean considerable financial losses for the affected shareholders.
Noun 'Aktionäre', verb 'bedeuten'.
Die insolvenzrechtliche Prüfung ergab, dass die Voraussetzungen für einen Konkurs erfüllt waren.
The insolvency law examination revealed that the prerequisites for bankruptcy were met.
Complex sentence structure, legal terminology.
Obwohl die Geschäftsführung versucht hat, den Konkurs abzuwenden, war dies letztendlich nicht möglich.
Although the management tried to avert bankruptcy, this was ultimately not possible.
Subordinate clause with 'obwohl', past perfect tense.
Die Konkursmasse wird unter den Gläubigern nach gesetzlichen Bestimmungen aufgeteilt.
The bankruptcy estate will be divided among the creditors according to legal provisions.
Passive voice, legal terminology 'Konkursmasse'.
Ein geordneter Konkurs soll sicherstellen, dass die Gläubiger so weit wie möglich entschädigt werden.
An orderly bankruptcy is intended to ensure that creditors are compensated as much as possible.
Adjective 'geordnet', passive voice 'soll sicherstellen'.
Die Folgen eines Konkurses reichen oft über die rein finanziellen Aspekte hinaus.
The consequences of bankruptcy often extend beyond purely financial aspects.
Preposition 'über...hinaus'.
Experten diskutieren, ob eine präventive Restrukturierung den Konkurs hätte verhindern können.
Experts are discussing whether preventive restructuring could have prevented the bankruptcy.
Konjunktiv II for hypothetical situations.
Die regulatorischen Hürden für eine erfolgreiche Sanierung nach der Einleitung eines Konkursverfahrens sind immens.
The regulatory hurdles for a successful restructuring after the initiation of bankruptcy proceedings are immense.
Complex noun phrases, abstract vocabulary.
Die ökonomischen Auswirkungen eines großflächigen Konkurses können die Stabilität ganzer Branchen gefährden.
The economic repercussions of large-scale bankruptcy can jeopardize the stability of entire industries.
Adjective 'großflächig', verb 'gefährden'.
In der juristischen Debatte wird kontrovers diskutiert, ob die aktuelle Gesetzgebung einem präventiven Konkursschutz ausreichend Rechnung trägt.
In the legal debate, it is controversially discussed whether current legislation adequately accounts for preventive bankruptcy protection.
Passive voice, abstract nouns, conditional clauses.
Die Insolvenzverwalter sind bestrebt, die Konkursmasse zu maximieren, um die Ansprüche der Gläubiger bestmöglich zu erfüllen.
The insolvency administrators strive to maximize the bankruptcy estate in order to best fulfill the creditors' claims.
Verb 'bestreben', infinitive clauses, complex noun phrases.
Das Verständnis der unterschiedlichen Insolvenzformen, einschließlich des Konkurses, ist für ein fundiertes Urteil unerlässlich.
Understanding the different forms of insolvency, including bankruptcy, is essential for a well-founded judgment.
Abstract nouns, genitive case, adjective 'fundiert'.
Eine strategische Neuausrichtung wird oft als letzte Maßnahme vor dem unvermeidlichen Konkurs ergriffen.
A strategic reorientation is often taken as a last measure before unavoidable bankruptcy.
Abstract concepts, prepositional phrases.
Die ethischen Implikationen eines frühzeitigen Konkurses bei gleichzeitiger Gewinnausschüttung sind Gegenstand intensiver Kritik.
The ethical implications of early bankruptcy alongside profit distribution are the subject of intense criticism.
Complex noun phrases, abstract nouns, participle constructions.
Die globale Vernetzung der Finanzmärkte bedeutet, dass ein Konkurs in einem Land schnell internationale Auswirkungen haben kann.
The global interconnectedness of financial markets means that a bankruptcy in one country can quickly have international repercussions.
Complex sentence structure, abstract nouns.
Die juristische Auslegung des Begriffs 'Konkurs' variiert subtil je nach nationaler Rechtsprechung und der spezifischen Konstellation des Falles.
The legal interpretation of the term 'bankruptcy' varies subtly according to national jurisdiction and the specific constellation of the case.
Highly specialized vocabulary, abstract concepts, nuanced phrasing.
Die ökonomische Theorie des Konkurses beleuchtet die Effizienzverluste und Allokationsprobleme, die mit dem Scheitern von Unternehmen einhergehen.
The economic theory of bankruptcy illuminates the efficiency losses and allocation problems that accompany the failure of companies.
Academic terminology, abstract concepts, complex sentence structure.
Die Frage, ob ein Unternehmen im Konkurs noch als 'wirtschaftlich existent' betrachtet werden kann, ist Gegenstand fortwährender akademischer Auseinandersetzung.
The question of whether a company in bankruptcy can still be considered 'economically existent' is the subject of ongoing academic debate.
Complex subordinate clauses, abstract nouns, philosophical undertones.
Das Zusammenspiel von Gläubigerinteressen, Sanierungsbemühungen und der Notwendigkeit einer geordneten Konkursabwicklung stellt die Insolvenzgerichte vor erhebliche Herausforderungen.
The interplay of creditor interests, restructuring efforts, and the necessity of orderly bankruptcy settlement presents insolvency courts with significant challenges.
Highly abstract noun phrases, complex sentence structure, nuanced vocabulary.
Die historische Entwicklung des Konkursrechts spiegelt tiefgreifende Veränderungen in der Auffassung von wirtschaftlicher Verantwortung und sozialer Absicherung wider.
The historical development of bankruptcy law reflects profound changes in the perception of economic responsibility and social security.
Historical context, abstract concepts, sophisticated vocabulary.
Die strategische Entscheidung, ob ein Unternehmen in Eigenverwaltung den Konkurs durchläuft oder eine externe Übernahme anstrebt, ist oft von einer komplexen Risikobewertung abhängig.
The strategic decision of whether a company in self-administration goes through bankruptcy or aims for external acquisition often depends on a complex risk assessment.
Complex sentence structures, conditional clauses, abstract nouns.
Die Debatte um die Reform des Konkursrechts konzentriert sich auf die Balance zwischen der Ermöglichung von Neuanfängen und dem Schutz der Rechte von Gläubigern.
The debate on the reform of bankruptcy law focuses on the balance between enabling fresh starts and protecting creditors' rights.
Abstract concepts, nuanced vocabulary, focus on balance.
Die Analogie des Konkurses wird in der Soziologie bisweilen verwendet, um den Zusammenbruch gesellschaftlicher Strukturen oder kultureller Phänomene zu beschreiben.
The analogy of bankruptcy is sometimes used in sociology to describe the collapse of social structures or cultural phenomena.
Metaphorical usage, interdisciplinary context, sophisticated phrasing.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To declare bankruptcy. This is the formal act of initiating bankruptcy proceedings.
Die Firma musste <strong>Konkurs</strong> anmelden, da sie ihre Schulden nicht mehr bedienen konnte.
— To go bankrupt; to fall into bankruptcy. Describes the state of becoming bankrupt.
Viele kleine Restaurants sind während der Pandemie in den <strong>Konkurs</strong> geraten.
— Bankruptcy proceedings. Refers to the legal process involved in bankruptcy.
Das <strong>Konkurs</strong>verfahren für die Baufirma wird von einem Insolvenzverwalter geleitet.
— Impending bankruptcy; threat of bankruptcy. Indicates that bankruptcy is likely to happen soon.
Wegen der hohen Zinsen besteht ein <strong>drohender Konkurs</strong> für viele Start-ups.
— Delaying the filing for bankruptcy. This is a legal offense in Germany.
Die Geschäftsführerin wurde wegen <strong>Konkurs</strong>verschleppung angeklagt.
— Bankruptcy estate; assets of the bankrupt entity. The total pool of assets available to creditors.
Die <strong>Konkursmasse</strong> wird versteigert, um die Gläubiger zu befriedigen.
— Personal bankruptcy. Bankruptcy of an individual, as opposed to a company.
Ein privater <strong>Konkurs</strong> kann durch hohe Konsumschulden ausgelöst werden.
— Economic bankruptcy. Often used to describe the failure of businesses due to broader economic conditions.
Der wirtschaftliche <strong>Konkurs</strong> vieler Betriebe schwächte die Region.
— To avert bankruptcy; to prevent bankruptcy. Efforts made to avoid bankruptcy.
Das Management versuchte verzweifelt, den <strong>Konkurs</strong> abzuwenden.
— To go bankrupt (colloquial, similar to 'pleite gehen').
Der kleine Laden hat leider <strong>Konkurs</strong> gemacht.
Often Confused With
'Konzer' sounds similar to 'Konkurs' but means 'concert'. They are completely unrelated in meaning and context.
'Konkurrenz' means competition. While competition can sometimes lead to bankruptcy ('Konkurs'), the words themselves have distinct meanings and usages.
'Kurs' means course (e.g., a language course, a stock market trend). It shares a root with 'Konkurs' but has a very different meaning. Be careful not to confuse them, especially in financial contexts where 'Kurs' can refer to stock prices.
Idioms & Expressions
— To go bankrupt. A very common phrase, often used interchangeably with 'Konkurs machen' or 'pleite gehen'.
Wenn wir nicht mehr Kunden gewinnen, werden wir bald bankrott gehen.
Informal to Neutral— To ruin something; to mess something up completely. Can be used metaphorically for a business failure, implying a complete collapse.
Er hat die ganze Firma in den Sand gesetzt.
Informal— To die (colloquial). Can be used metaphorically for a business 'dying'.
Die alte Bäckerei hat nach über 100 Jahren den Löffel abgegeben.
Informal— To be devastated. Can describe the emotional state of someone facing bankruptcy.
Nach dem Konkurs seines Unternehmens war er am Boden zerstört.
Neutral— To stand with empty hands; to have nothing left. Describes the outcome of bankruptcy.
Nach dem Konkurs stand er mit leeren Händen da.
NeutralEasily Confused
Both 'Konkurs' and 'Insolvenz' refer to a state of financial inability to pay debts.
'Insolvenz' is often a broader term referring to the state of being unable to pay debts, while 'Konkurs' typically implies a formal legal process, often involving liquidation. In many contexts, they are used interchangeably, but 'Konkurs' can imply a more definitive end to a business.
Die Firma meldete <strong>Insolvenz</strong> an. Das führte zu einem <strong>Konkurs</strong>verfahren.
Both 'Konkurs' and 'Pleite' describe financial failure.
'Pleite' is an informal, colloquial term meaning 'broke' or 'bankrupt'. 'Konkurs' is a formal, legal term used in official and business contexts. You would say a shop 'ist pleite gegangen' (went broke), but a company officially declares 'Konkurs' or 'Insolvenz'.
Der kleine Laden ist <strong>pleite</strong> gegangen. Die große Firma musste <strong>Konkurs</strong> anmelden.
This describes the state that leads to bankruptcy.
'Zahlungsunfähigkeit' literally means 'inability to pay'. It describes the condition or state of being unable to meet financial obligations. 'Konkurs' is the formal legal proceeding or outcome that results from this state.
Die <strong>Zahlungsunfähigkeit</strong> war die Ursache für den <strong>Konkurs</strong>.
Both words start with 'Kon-' and are related to business.
'Konkurrenz' means competition. It refers to businesses operating in the same market. 'Konkurs' means bankruptcy, the failure of a business. While intense 'Konkurrenz' can sometimes lead to 'Konkurs', the words themselves describe very different concepts.
Die starke <strong>Konkurrenz</strong> führte fast zum <strong>Konkurs</strong> des kleinen Ladens.
They sound very similar and share a linguistic root.
'Kurs' means a course (like a language course, a training course) or a trend/rate (like a stock market 'Kurs'). 'Konkurs' means bankruptcy. The connection is that a business might be on a bad 'Kurs' (trend) leading to 'Konkurs'.
Der Aktien<strong>kurs</strong> fiel dramatisch, was zu Spekulationen über einen möglichen <strong>Konkurs</strong> führte.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + meldet + <strong>Konkurs</strong> + an.
Die kleine Firma meldet <strong>Konkurs</strong> an.
Subject + ist/war + in den + <strong>Konkurs</strong> + geraten.
Er ist in den <strong>Konkurs</strong> geraten.
Der + <strong>Konkurs</strong> + von + Noun + ...
Der <strong>Konkurs</strong> des Unternehmens hatte Folgen.
Wegen + des + <strong>Konkurs</strong>es + ...
Wegen des <strong>Konkurs</strong>es verloren viele ihre Arbeit.
Obwohl + Subject + ... + musste + Subject + <strong>Konkurs</strong> + anmelden.
Obwohl sie kämpften, mussten sie <strong>Konkurs</strong> anmelden.
Das + <strong>Konkurs</strong>verfahren + wird + ...
Das <strong>Konkurs</strong>verfahren wird von einem Experten geleitet.
Die + <strong>Konkurs</strong>masse + wird + ...
Die <strong>Konkursmasse</strong> wird versteigert.
Ein + <strong>Konkurs</strong> + kann + ...
Ein <strong>Konkurs</strong> kann weitreichende Folgen haben.
Word Family
Nouns
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How to Use It
High in business, legal, and economic contexts.
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Using the wrong gender (e.g., 'die Konkurs')
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der Konkurs
'Konkurs' is a masculine noun. Using the wrong article is a common grammatical error for learners and makes the sentence sound unnatural.
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Confusing 'Konkurs' with 'Konkurrenz'
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Konkurs (bankruptcy) vs. Konkurrenz (competition)
These words sound somewhat similar but have entirely different meanings. 'Konkurrenz' refers to competition between businesses, while 'Konkurs' refers to financial failure.
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Using 'Konkurs' in informal contexts
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Use 'pleite' or 'pleite gehen' in informal settings.
'Konkurs' is a formal term. Using it in casual conversation can sound overly serious or inappropriate. For example, saying 'Mein Handy hat Konkurs gemacht' is too formal; 'Mein Handy ist kaputtgegangen' or 'Mein Handy ist pleite' (metaphorically) would be more natural.
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Incorrectly using 'wegen' + Konkurs
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wegen des Konkurses
The preposition 'wegen' requires the genitive case. Since 'Konkurs' is masculine, it becomes 'des Konkurses' in the genitive. Incorrectly using the dative ('wegen dem Konkurs') is a common error.
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Confusing the state with the process
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Distinguish between 'Zahlungsunfähigkeit' (state) and 'Konkurs' (process/outcome).
Saying a company is 'in Konkurs' refers to the state of being bankrupt. 'Konkurs anmelden' is the action of initiating the process. 'Zahlungsunfähigkeit' is the underlying condition of not being able to pay.
Tips
Master the 'R' and 'S'
Pay close attention to the German 'r' sound (guttural) and the final 's' in 'Konkurs', which is voiced like a 'z'. Practicing these sounds will make your pronunciation much more accurate.
Remember the Gender
'Konkurs' is a masculine noun ('der Konkurs'). Always use the correct article and adjective endings when referring to it. This is crucial for correct German grammar.
Distinguish Formal vs. Informal
While 'Konkurs' is the formal term for bankruptcy, remember that 'pleite' is the informal equivalent. Use 'Konkurs' in news reports, legal documents, and formal business discussions, and 'pleite' in casual conversations.
Understand the Legal Nuance
'Konkurs' often implies a formal legal process. Be aware that related terms like 'Insolvenz' and 'Zahlungsunfähigkeit' exist and may have slightly different nuances depending on the context.
Common Collocations
Familiarize yourself with common phrases like 'Konkurs anmelden' (to declare bankruptcy) and 'in Konkurs geraten' (to go bankrupt). Using these fixed expressions will make your German sound more natural.
Visual Association
Create a strong visual image to remember the word. For example, imagine a sinking ship labeled 'Konkurs', representing financial ruin.
Read Financial News
Read German financial news websites or articles. This will expose you to 'Konkurs' in its natural habitat and help you understand its usage in real-world scenarios.
Learn Related Terms
When you learn 'Konkurs', also learn related terms like 'Insolvenz', 'Gläubiger' (creditor), and 'Konkursmasse' (bankruptcy estate) to build a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Understand its Significance
Recognize that bankruptcy ('Konkurs') is a significant event with legal, economic, and social implications in German-speaking countries. This understanding will help you grasp the weight of the word.
Use it in Sentences
Actively try to use 'Konkurs' in your own German sentences, whether in writing or speaking. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with it.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a race ('Kurs') where all the runners ('Kon') suddenly trip and fall, leading to a 'Konkurs' (bankruptcy). The runners couldn't finish the course because they went bankrupt.
Visual Association
Picture a business sign that is broken in half, with money falling out of it. The word 'Konkurs' is written on a large, red 'STOP' sign next to it.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to explain what 'Konkurs' means to someone who doesn't know German, using only simple English words. Focus on the idea of a business failing financially and having to close down.
Word Origin
The word 'Konkurs' originates from the Latin word 'concursus', which means 'a running together', 'a meeting', or 'a collision'. This Latin term was adopted into Middle High German as 'konkurs'.
Original meaning: In its Latin origin, 'concursus' implied a coming together, which in a legal or financial context evolved to mean a gathering of creditors or a collision of financial interests leading to a formal process.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Germanic > West Germanic > GermanCultural Context
Discussing bankruptcy can be a sensitive topic, as it often involves significant personal or business hardship. It's important to use the term respectfully and be mindful of the potential distress associated with it.
In English-speaking countries, the primary term is 'bankruptcy'. While similar in meaning, the legal specifics and associated terminology can differ significantly from German 'Konkurs'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Business News Reporting
- <strong>Konkurs</strong> anmelden
- in den <strong>Konkurs</strong> geraten
- <strong>Konkurs</strong>verfahren
- wirtschaftlicher <strong>Konkurs</strong>
Legal Discussions
- <strong>Konkurs</strong>gericht
- <strong>Konkurs</strong>verwalter
- <strong>Konkurs</strong>verschleppung
- <strong>Konkurs</strong>masse
Personal Financial Struggles
- <strong>Konkurs</strong> machen (colloquial)
- privater <strong>Konkurs</strong>
- drohender <strong>Konkurs</strong>
Economic Analysis
- Folgen des <strong>Konkurs</strong>es
- Ursachen für <strong>Konkurs</strong>
- <strong>Konkurs</strong>risiko
Academic Studies (Economics/Law)
- Theorie des <strong>Konkurs</strong>es
- <strong>Konkurs</strong>recht
- <strong>Konkurs</strong>statistik
Conversation Starters
"Hast du die Nachrichten über den Konkurs von Firma X gehört?"
"Was denkst du, warum so viele Unternehmen in letzter Zeit Konkurs anmelden müssen?"
"Könntest du mir erklären, was genau passiert, wenn eine Firma Konkurs macht?"
"Wie unterscheidet sich 'Konkurs' von 'Insolvenz'?"
"Glaubst du, dass die aktuelle Wirtschaftslage zu mehr Konkursen führen wird?"
Journal Prompts
Schreibe einen kurzen Artikel über die möglichen Ursachen für den <strong>Konkurs</strong> eines fiktiven Unternehmens.
Beschreibe die Gefühle und Gedanken einer Person, deren eigenes Geschäft gerade <strong>Konkurs</strong> anmelden musste.
Vergleiche die Auswirkungen eines großen Unternehmens<strong>Konkurs</strong>es auf die Mitarbeiter und die lokale Gemeinschaft.
Erstelle eine Liste von fünf Sätzen, die das Wort 'Konkurs' in verschiedenen Kontexten verwenden.
Was sind deiner Meinung nach die wichtigsten Schritte, um einen drohenden <strong>Konkurs</strong> abzuwenden?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile often used interchangeably, 'Insolvenz' generally refers to the state of being unable to pay debts. 'Konkurs' typically implies a more formal legal procedure, often involving the liquidation of assets to pay creditors. In modern German legal terminology, 'Insolvenz' is the overarching term, and 'Konkurs' might refer to a specific type of insolvency proceeding, like liquidation. For everyday purposes, they are very close in meaning.
'Konkurs' is a formal word. It is primarily used in business, legal, and financial contexts. For informal situations, Germans often use 'pleite' (broke) or 'pleite gehen' (to go broke).
'Konkurs anmelden' means to officially declare bankruptcy. This is the formal act of initiating bankruptcy proceedings, usually by filing a petition with the court.
Yes, individuals can declare 'Konkurs', although it is often referred to as 'Privatkonkurs' (personal bankruptcy) or 'Verbraucherinsolvenz' (consumer insolvency) in specific legal contexts. The general term 'Konkurs' can apply to both individuals and companies.
The consequences of 'Konkurs' are severe and can include the liquidation of assets to pay off debts, the cessation of business operations, significant financial losses for owners and creditors, and potential job losses for employees. It can also affect the creditworthiness of the individual or company.
Yes, 'Konkursverschleppung' (delaying the filing for bankruptcy) is a serious offense in Germany and other German-speaking countries. It is a criminal offense because it can worsen the financial situation for creditors and potentially allow fraudulent activities.
'Konkursmasse' refers to the bankruptcy estate, which includes all the assets and property of the bankrupt individual or company that are available to be sold and distributed to creditors during the bankruptcy proceedings.
The pronunciation is roughly 'KON-kurs'. The 'o' is short, the 'k' is hard, the 'u' is short, the 'r' is guttural (pronounced in the back of the throat), and the final 's' is voiced, sounding like a 'z'. The stress is on the first syllable.
Yes, many languages have a word for bankruptcy. In English, it's 'bankruptcy'. In French, it's 'faillite' or 'banqueroute'. In Spanish, it's 'bancarrota' or 'quiebra'. The concept is universal, though the specific legal terms may vary.
Yes, 'Konkurs' can be used metaphorically to describe a complete failure or collapse in non-financial contexts, although this usage is less common and can sound dramatic. For example, one might say a project went into 'Konkurs' if it failed entirely.
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Summary
Konkurs is the German term for bankruptcy, signifying a formal legal and financial state where an individual or company cannot meet its obligations and faces asset liquidation. It's a crucial term in business, legal, and economic discussions.
- Konkurs: German for bankruptcy.
- Used for individuals or companies unable to pay debts.
- Implies a formal legal process of financial failure.
- Key term in business and legal contexts.
Master the 'R' and 'S'
Pay close attention to the German 'r' sound (guttural) and the final 's' in 'Konkurs', which is voiced like a 'z'. Practicing these sounds will make your pronunciation much more accurate.
Remember the Gender
'Konkurs' is a masculine noun ('der Konkurs'). Always use the correct article and adjective endings when referring to it. This is crucial for correct German grammar.
Distinguish Formal vs. Informal
While 'Konkurs' is the formal term for bankruptcy, remember that 'pleite' is the informal equivalent. Use 'Konkurs' in news reports, legal documents, and formal business discussions, and 'pleite' in casual conversations.
Understand the Legal Nuance
'Konkurs' often implies a formal legal process. Be aware that related terms like 'Insolvenz' and 'Zahlungsunfähigkeit' exist and may have slightly different nuances depending on the context.
Example
In context, `Konkurs` expresses: bankruptcy.
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