At the A1 level, you only need to understand the very basic idea of 'das Obergeschoss'. Think of it as 'the floor upstairs'. You might learn this word when talking about your house or an apartment. You should know that 'oben' means 'up' or 'above', and 'Geschoss' means 'floor'. So, 'Obergeschoss' is the 'upper floor'. You will mostly see it on signs in shops or hear it when someone says where a room is. For example: 'Die Toilette ist im Obergeschoss' (The toilet is upstairs). At this level, don't worry too much about the complex floor numbering; just remember that if someone says 'Obergeschoss', you usually need to take the stairs or the elevator up. It is a neuter noun, so we say 'das Obergeschoss'. When we are in it, we say 'im Obergeschoss'. This is a contraction of 'in dem Obergeschoss'. It is a very useful word for finding your way around a new city or a big store.
At the A2 level, you should start using 'das Obergeschoss' to give and follow simple directions. You will learn to use ordinal numbers like 'erstes' (first) or 'zweites' (second). For example, 'Das Büro ist im ersten Obergeschoss' (The office is on the first upper floor). You should also be aware that in Germany, the 'first' upper floor is what Americans call the 'second' floor. This is an important cultural and linguistic difference. You might use this word when describing your daily routine or where you live. 'Meine Wohnung hat zwei Zimmer im Obergeschoss.' You should also learn the plural form 'die Obergeschosse'. If a building is tall, it has many 'Obergeschosse'. You will also see the abbreviation 'OG' on elevator buttons and signs. '1. OG' means 'erstes Obergeschoss'. At this level, you are building the confidence to navigate German buildings and understand basic real estate descriptions.
At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'das Obergeschoss' accurately in a variety of contexts, including work, shopping, and housing. You should understand the grammatical requirements, such as the dative case after the preposition 'im' (im ersten Obergeschoss) and the accusative case for movement (wir gehen ins Obergeschoss). You will encounter this word frequently in reading texts about architecture, city planning, or news reports. You should be able to distinguish between 'Obergeschoss' and its synonyms like 'Stock' or 'Etage'. You might also start using it in more complex descriptions: 'Das Obergeschoss ist durch eine Wendeltreppe mit dem Erdgeschoss verbunden' (The upper floor is connected to the ground floor by a spiral staircase). This level requires a clear understanding of the 'Erdgeschoss' (EG) vs. 'Obergeschoss' (OG) system to avoid confusion in professional settings or when following detailed instructions.
At the B2 level, 'das Obergeschoss' becomes a standard part of your professional and technical vocabulary. You should be able to discuss building plans, renovation projects, or safety regulations using this term. You will understand nuances, such as why an architect might choose the word 'Obergeschoss' over 'Stockwerk' in a formal report. You will also encounter the word in more abstract or literary contexts, perhaps describing the atmosphere of a building's upper levels. You should be comfortable with compound words like 'Obergeschossgrundriss' (upper floor plan) or 'Obergeschossausbau' (attic/upper floor conversion). Your grammar should be precise, correctly handling adjective endings and cases in complex sentences. For example: 'Trotz der umfassenden Sanierung des zweiten Obergeschosses blieben die historischen Stuckverzierungen erhalten.' At this level, you can also explain the German floor numbering system to others, demonstrating your cultural competence.
At the C1 level, you use 'das Obergeschoss' with the fluency of a native speaker. You understand its historical context, such as the concept of the 'Beletage' and how it relates to modern 'Obergeschosse'. You can follow complex legal or technical documents regarding building codes ('Bauverordnung'), where the definition of a 'Vollgeschoss' (full storey) versus an 'Obergeschoss' might be legally significant. You are also sensitive to the stylistic choices between 'Obergeschoss', 'Etage', and 'Ebene'. In a literary analysis, you might discuss how the separation of a house into 'Erdgeschoss' and 'Obergeschoss' reflects class distinctions or the psychological state of the characters. Your use of the word is effortless, and you can handle any grammatical structure involving it, including genitive constructions like 'die Fenster des Obergeschosses' or complex passive sentences.
At the C2 level, 'das Obergeschoss' is a simple building block in your sophisticated command of the German language. You can engage in high-level architectural discourse, discussing the structural, aesthetic, and functional aspects of upper storeys in different eras of German history—from medieval half-timbered houses to modern glass skyscrapers. You understand the subtle connotations of the word in various dialects or specialized jargon. You can write flawlessly about urban development, heritage conservation, or advanced engineering projects. Your ability to use the word extends to metaphorical or highly specialized technical contexts where 'Obergeschoss' might be part of a larger discussion on verticality in urban spaces. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a precise instrument for detailed and nuanced communication in any professional or academic field.

das Obergeschoss em 30 segundos

  • Das Obergeschoss refers to any floor above the ground floor in a building, essential for navigating German addresses and stores correctly.
  • It is a neuter noun (das), and in the dative case (used for locations), it becomes 'im Obergeschoss' (in the upper floor).
  • German floor numbering starts at 0 (Erdgeschoss), so the 1. Obergeschoss is actually the second level of the building.
  • Commonly abbreviated as 'OG' on signs and elevators, it is a formal and technical alternative to the everyday word 'Stock'.
The German noun das Obergeschoss is a fundamental architectural term that every learner of German must master, particularly as they transition into the B1 level where navigating daily life in Germany becomes more complex. At its core, the word refers to any floor or storey of a building that is located above the ground level. To understand this word fully, one must first grasp the German system of floor numbering, which differs significantly from the North American system but aligns closely with the British and most European systems. In Germany, the ground floor is known as the Erdgeschoss (often abbreviated as EG). Therefore, the Obergeschoss (abbreviated as OG) begins with what Americans would call the second floor. The 'first' Obergeschoss (1. OG) is the first level you reach after climbing one flight of stairs from the street level. This distinction is crucial for anyone looking for an apartment, visiting a doctor's office, or shopping in a large department store like Karstadt or Kaufhof.
Etymological Breakdown
The word is a compound noun consisting of 'ober' (upper/top) and 'Geschoss' (floor/storey). Historically, 'Geschoss' is related to the verb 'schießen' (to shoot or throw), originally referring to the horizontal beams that were 'thrown' across a structure to create a new level. In modern usage, it is a neutral, formal term used in architecture, real estate, and official signage.

In der Anzeige steht, dass die Wohnung im zweiten Obergeschoss liegt, was bedeutet, dass wir viele Treppen steigen müssen.

Beyond the physical structure, the term evokes a sense of domestic organization. In many traditional German houses, the Erdgeschoss houses the 'public' rooms like the kitchen and living room, while the Obergeschoss is reserved for the 'private' spheres, such as bedrooms and bathrooms. In commercial contexts, the Obergeschoss is where you find specialized departments. For instance, in a 'Kaufhaus' (department store), the ground floor usually contains perfumes and accessories, while the Obergeschosse house clothing, electronics, or home goods. The word carries a neutral register; it is neither overly poetic nor slangy, making it appropriate for everything from technical blueprints to a casual conversation about where you left your keys. Understanding the plural form, die Obergeschosse, is also vital, as large buildings like shopping malls or office towers will have multiple upper floors. Architecturally, the Obergeschoss is often contrasted with the Dachgeschoss (attic floor) and the Untergeschoss (basement/lower floor).
Cultural Context
In older European architecture, the first upper floor was often the 'Beletage' (beautiful floor), featuring higher ceilings and more ornate decorations than the ground floor or the floors above it. While the term 'Obergeschoss' is more functional, it still covers these historically significant levels of a building.

Die Büros der Geschäftsleitung befinden sich im obersten Obergeschoss mit Blick über die ganze Stadt.

In summary, use this word whenever you are discussing the levels of a building that require going up from the entrance. It is the standard, professional, and clear way to designate vertical space in German-speaking countries. Whether you are reading a floor plan, following directions in a hospital, or describing your dream home, das Obergeschoss is the precise tool for the job.
Using das Obergeschoss correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of German prepositions and the dative case. Because we are usually talking about a location (where something is), the preposition in is used with the dative case. Since Obergeschoss is a neuter noun (das), in dem contracts to im. For example, 'Das Schlafzimmer ist im Obergeschoss' (The bedroom is on the upper floor). If you are describing movement (where you are going), you use the accusative case: 'Wir gehen ins Obergeschoss' (We are going to the upper floor), where ins is a contraction of in das.
Adjective Endings
When you specify which upper floor (e.g., the first, second, or third), you must use ordinal numbers with the correct adjective endings. Since it is 'das Obergeschoss', you would say 'im ersten Obergeschoss', 'im zweiten Obergeschoss', etc. Note the '-en' ending in the dative case after the definite article.

Können Sie mir sagen, ob sich die Toiletten im ersten oder im zweiten Obergeschoss befinden?

Beyond location, Obergeschoss often appears in compound words or as part of a description of a building's layout. You might hear 'ein Haus mit zwei Obergeschossen' (a house with two upper floors). It is also common to use it when giving directions. If someone asks for the 'Damenabteilung' (women's department), you might reply, 'Die ist ein Stockwerk höher, im ersten Obergeschoss.' In more complex sentences, particularly in B1 and B2 levels, you might use the word to describe renovations or architectural features. 'Das Obergeschoss wurde komplett saniert und mit Parkettboden ausgestattet' (The upper floor was completely renovated and fitted with parquet flooring). Here, the word acts as the subject of the sentence in the nominative case.
Sentence Patterns
1. [Subject] + ist/sind + im [Ordinal Number] + Obergeschoss.
2. Wir gehen + ins + Obergeschoss.
3. Das Haus hat + [Number] + Obergeschosse.

Während das Erdgeschoss als Ladenfläche dient, wird das Obergeschoss als Lager genutzt.

Using the word in the plural is also important for descriptive writing. 'In den oberen Obergeschossen befinden sich die luxuriösen Penthäuser' (In the upper-most floors are the luxurious penthouses). Notice the repetition of 'oberen' and 'Obergeschoss'—while it might seem redundant, 'obere Obergeschosse' is a standard way to refer to the higher levels of a skyscraper. Finally, consider the word in the context of safety: 'Im Brandfall nutzen Sie bitte nicht den Aufzug, um aus dem Obergeschoss zu fliehen' (In case of fire, please do not use the elevator to escape from the upper floor). This highlights the word's utility in everyday safety and instructional language.
You will encounter das Obergeschoss in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from mundane errands to professional environments. One of the most frequent places you will see and hear this word is in large retail environments. When you enter a 'Kaufhaus' (department store) like Galeria, the directory at the entrance will list departments by floor: 'EG: Parfümerie, 1. OG: Damenmode, 2. OG: Herrenmode'. The automated voice in the elevator will also announce the floors: 'Erstes Obergeschoss. Ausstieg in Fahrtrichtung links.'
Real Estate and Housing
If you are searching for an apartment on websites like Immobilienscout24, the description will almost always specify the floor. An ad might say 'Helle 3-Zimmer-Wohnung im 3. OG ohne Aufzug' (Bright 3-room apartment on the 3rd upper floor without an elevator). This is a vital piece of information, as it tells you how many stairs you'll be climbing daily!

Die Immobilienmaklerin erklärte, dass das Obergeschoss des Hauses erst vor zwei Jahren ausgebaut wurde.

In public buildings such as 'Rathäuser' (city halls), 'Bibliotheken' (libraries), or 'Krankenhäuser' (hospitals), signage is key. You might see a sign that says 'Radiologie - 1. Obergeschoss' or 'Lesesaal - 2. Obergeschoss'. Receptionists will often direct you using this term: 'Gehen Sie bitte die Treppe hoch ins erste Obergeschoss, die Tür auf der rechten Seite.' Architecture and construction are other fields where this word is ubiquitous. If you are watching a home renovation show on German TV (like 'Einsatz in 4 Wänden'), the moderator will frequently discuss plans for the Obergeschoss. They might talk about 'die Statik des Obergeschosses' (the structural integrity of the upper floor) or 'die Raumaufteilung im Obergeschoss' (the room layout on the upper floor).
Formal Announcements
In museums, a guide might say: 'Unsere Sonderausstellung zu den Impressionisten finden Sie in den Räumen im zweiten Obergeschoss.' This formal usage reinforces the word's place in high-culture and educational settings.

Das Museum bleibt heute im Erdgeschoss geöffnet, aber das Obergeschoss ist wegen Renovierungsarbeiten geschlossen.

Even in literature or news reports, the word provides a clear spatial frame. A news report about a fire might state, 'Das Feuer brach im ersten Obergeschoss eines Mehrfamilienhauses aus.' This precision is a hallmark of the German language's approach to describing physical space. By paying attention to these contexts, you'll start to hear Obergeschoss not just as a vocabulary word, but as a vital coordinate in the map of German daily life.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using das Obergeschoss is a logical one: the 'Floor Numbering Trap'. In the United States, the 'first floor' is the ground floor. In Germany, the erste Obergeschoss (1. OG) is the floor *above* the ground floor. If an American is told to go to the first floor, they might stay on the ground level, while a German would expect them to go up one flight of stairs. This confusion can lead to missed appointments or getting lost in large buildings. Always remember: Erdgeschoss = 0, Erstes Obergeschoss = 1.
Gender Confusion
Another common error is getting the grammatical gender wrong. Many learners assume that because 'der Stock' (floor/storey) is masculine, 'Obergeschoss' must be masculine too. However, it is 'das Geschoss'. Saying 'im ersten Obergeschoss' (dative neuter) is correct, while 'im erstem Obergeschoss' or 'in der Obergeschoss' are common mistakes.

Falsch: Ich wohne in der ersten Obergeschoss.
Richtig: Ich wohne im ersten Obergeschoss.

A third mistake involves the distinction between Obergeschoss and Stockwerk. While they are often used as synonyms, Stockwerk is a more general term for any level (including the ground floor), whereas Obergeschoss specifically excludes the ground floor. If you say 'ein Haus mit drei Stockwerken', it could mean a ground floor and two upper floors. If you say 'ein Haus mit drei Obergeschossen', it specifically means there are three levels *above* the ground floor. Using them interchangeably in a technical or real estate context can lead to misunderstandings about the size of a building. Prepositional errors also occur. Learners sometimes use 'auf' (on) because in English we say 'on the first floor'. In German, we use 'in' (in) for floors: 'im Obergeschoss'. Saying 'auf dem Obergeschoss' sounds like you are standing on top of the roof of that floor, rather than inside it.
The 'Dachgeschoss' Distinction
Don't confuse 'Obergeschoss' with 'Dachgeschoss'. The 'Dachgeschoss' is specifically the attic or the floor directly under the roof, often with slanted ceilings (Dachschrägen). While a 'Dachgeschoss' is technically an upper floor, calling a regular middle floor a 'Dachgeschoss' would be incorrect.

Vorsicht: Sagen Sie nicht 'Obergeschoss', wenn Sie das Dachgeschoss meinen, da die Mietpreise und die Raumaufteilung oft sehr unterschiedlich sind.

Finally, watch out for the plural. The plural is die Obergeschosse. Some learners try to use 'Obergeschösser' or keep it as 'Obergeschoss'. Remember that neuter nouns ending in '-oss' often take '-e' in the plural (like das Ross -> die Rosse, though Geschoss is the more common example).
While das Obergeschoss is the standard term, German offers several alternatives depending on the register and the specific architectural context. The most common synonym in daily speech is der Stock or das Stockwerk. 'Ich wohne im ersten Stock' is much more common in a casual chat than 'Ich wohne im ersten Obergeschoss'. Stock is masculine, so notice the change: im ersten Stock.
Etage vs. Obergeschoss
Another frequent alternative is 'die Etage'. This word is borrowed from French and often sounds a bit more sophisticated or 'chic'. In high-end hotels or luxury apartment buildings, you are more likely to hear 'Etage'. For example, 'Die Präsidentensuite befindet sich in der obersten Etage'. Grammatically, it is feminine: 'in der Etage'.

Während Obergeschoss eher technisch klingt, wirkt 'Etage' oft eleganter.

For more specialized contexts, you might encounter die Ebene (the level). This is often used in modern architecture, parking garages (Parkebene), or complex public transport stations where 'floor' doesn't quite capture the layout. 'Treffen wir uns auf der Ebene 4' (Let's meet on level 4). There is also das Hochparterre. This refers to a ground floor that is slightly elevated from the street level (you usually have to walk up a few steps to reach it). It is not an Obergeschoss yet, but it's not quite at street level either. Knowing this term is very helpful for apartment hunting in older German 'Altbau' buildings.
Synonym Comparison
- Obergeschoss (OG): Technical, formal, excludes ground floor.
- Stock / Stockwerk: Common, everyday usage, includes ground floor in total count.
- Etage: Sophisticated, French-origin, used in hotels/shops.
- Dachgeschoss (DG): Specifically the attic floor.
- Beletage: Historical term for the 'main' first floor in grand buildings.

In der Architekturzeichnung wird das Obergeschoss oft als 'OG' abgekürzt, während der 'Stock' in Texten ausgeschrieben wird.

Finally, in very modern or industrial buildings, you might hear das Deck, though this is mostly reserved for parking structures or ships. For learners, the goal should be to recognize all these terms but to use Obergeschoss when writing formally or reading official signs, and Stock when speaking with colleagues or friends. This flexibility will make your German sound much more natural and context-aware.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The word 'Geschoss' is also the German word for a 'projectile' or 'bullet'. So, 'das Obergeschoss' could technically be misread by a computer as 'the upper bullet', though context always prevents this in real life!

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ˈoːbɐɡəˌʃɔs/
US /ˈoʊbərɡəˌʃɔs/
Primary stress is on the first syllable: O-ber-ge-schoss.
Rima com
Geschoss Schloss Ross Floß (near rhyme) Genoß Tross Koloss Guss (near rhyme)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'G' in 'Geschoss' like a 'J' (English 'George'). It should be a hard 'G'.
  • Making the 'o' in 'schoss' too long. It is a short, open vowel.
  • Stressing the second or third syllable instead of the first.
  • Mispronouncing the 'sch' as 's'. It must be a 'sh' sound.
  • Forgetting to vocalize the 'r' in 'ober', making it sound too much like English 'over'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts and signs once you know 'ober' and 'Geschoss'.

Escrita 3/5

Requires correct handling of the neuter gender and dative endings (im ersten...).

Expressão oral 3/5

Need to remember the floor numbering system to avoid confusing listeners.

Audição 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to hear in announcements.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

oben das Haus das Zimmer die Treppe das Erdgeschoss

Aprenda a seguir

das Dachgeschoss das Untergeschoss der Aufzug die Etage die Miete

Avançado

die Bauverordnung die Statik die Erschließung das Staffelgeschoss die Beletage

Gramática essencial

Dative after 'in' for location

Ich bin im (in dem) Obergeschoss.

Accusative after 'in' for movement

Ich gehe ins (in das) Obergeschoss.

Ordinal numbers as adjectives

im ersten, zweiten, dritten Obergeschoss.

Neuter noun gender

Das Obergeschoss ist groß.

Compound noun formation

Ober + Geschoss = Obergeschoss.

Exemplos por nível

1

Das Bad ist im Obergeschoss.

The bathroom is on the upper floor.

Uses 'im' (in dem) + dative.

2

Wo ist das Obergeschoss?

Where is the upper floor?

Nominative case, subject.

3

Gehen Sie ins Obergeschoss.

Go to the upper floor.

Uses 'ins' (in das) + accusative for movement.

4

Mein Zimmer ist oben im Obergeschoss.

My room is up on the upper floor.

'Oben' adds emphasis to the location.

5

Das Haus hat ein Obergeschoss.

The house has one upper floor.

Accusative case after 'haben'.

6

Ist das Obergeschoss groß?

Is the upper floor big?

Simple question structure.

7

Wir sind jetzt im Obergeschoss.

We are now on the upper floor.

Present tense with 'sein'.

8

Die Treppe führt zum Obergeschoss.

The stairs lead to the upper floor.

Uses 'zu' + dative (zum).

1

Die Kinder spielen im ersten Obergeschoss.

The children are playing on the first upper floor.

Ordinal number 'ersten' with dative ending.

2

Das Kaufhaus hat vier Obergeschosse.

The department store has four upper floors.

Plural form 'Obergeschosse'.

3

Ich suche die Schuhe im zweiten Obergeschoss.

I am looking for the shoes on the second upper floor.

Ordinal number 'zweiten'.

4

Gibt es einen Aufzug ins Obergeschoss?

Is there an elevator to the upper floor?

Accusative movement with 'ins'.

5

Die Fenster im Obergeschoss sind neu.

The windows on the upper floor are new.

Plural subject 'die Fenster'.

6

Wir wohnen im dritten Obergeschoss.

We live on the third upper floor.

Ordinal number 'dritten'.

7

Es ist sehr ruhig im Obergeschoss.

It is very quiet on the upper floor.

Adjective 'ruhig' as a predicate.

8

Kommen Sie bitte ins erste Obergeschoss.

Please come to the first upper floor.

Imperative form.

1

Im Obergeschoss befinden sich die Schlafräume der Familie.

The family's bedrooms are located on the upper floor.

Reflexive verb 'sich befinden'.

2

Die Wohnung im Obergeschoss hat einen Balkon.

The apartment on the upper floor has a balcony.

Prepositional phrase as an attribute.

3

Wegen der Hitze ist es im Obergeschoss sehr warm.

Because of the heat, it is very warm on the upper floor.

Genitive preposition 'wegen'.

4

Das Obergeschoss wurde im letzten Jahr komplett renoviert.

The upper floor was completely renovated last year.

Passive voice 'wurde renoviert'.

5

Vom Obergeschoss aus hat man eine tolle Aussicht.

From the upper floor, you have a great view.

Prepositional phrase 'Vom... aus'.

6

Die Galerie im Obergeschoss zeigt moderne Kunst.

The gallery on the upper floor shows modern art.

Subject-verb-object structure.

7

Wir müssen die Möbel ins Obergeschoss tragen.

We have to carry the furniture to the upper floor.

Modal verb 'müssen'.

8

Das erste Obergeschoss ist über eine Außentreppe erreichbar.

The first upper floor is accessible via an outside staircase.

Adjective 'erreichbar'.

1

Die Statik des Obergeschosses muss geprüft werden.

The structural integrity of the upper floor must be checked.

Genitive case 'des Obergeschosses'.

2

Im zweiten Obergeschoss sind noch Büroflächen zu vermieten.

On the second upper floor, there are still office spaces for rent.

'zu' + infinitive (passive meaning).

3

Die Raumaufteilung im Obergeschoss ist sehr praktisch gestaltet.

The room layout on the upper floor is designed very practically.

Participle 'gestaltet' as an adjective.

4

Das Obergeschoss dient primär als Lagerfläche.

The upper floor serves primarily as storage space.

Verb 'dienen als'.

5

Trotz der hohen Miete im Obergeschoss ist das Haus voll belegt.

Despite the high rent on the upper floor, the building is fully occupied.

Concessive preposition 'trotz'.

6

Der Fluchtweg führt durch das gesamte Obergeschoss.

The escape route leads through the entire upper floor.

Preposition 'durch' + accusative.

7

Im Obergeschoss wurde ein neuer Brandschutz installiert.

A new fire protection system was installed on the upper floor.

Passive voice.

8

Die Deckenhöhe im Obergeschoss beträgt drei Meter.

The ceiling height on the upper floor is three meters.

Verb 'betragen'.

1

Die architektonische Gliederung des Obergeschosses weicht vom Erdgeschoss ab.

The architectural structure of the upper floor differs from the ground floor.

Separable verb 'abweichen von'.

2

Sämtliche Leitungen im Obergeschoss müssen erneuert werden.

All pipes/cables on the upper floor must be replaced.

Indefinite pronoun 'sämtliche'.

3

Das Obergeschoss besticht durch seine lichtdurchfluteten Räume.

The upper floor impresses with its light-filled rooms.

Verb 'bestechen durch'.

4

Man entschied sich gegen einen weiteren Ausbau des Obergeschosses.

They decided against further expansion of the upper floor.

Reflexive verb 'sich entscheiden gegen'.

5

Die historische Substanz im Obergeschoss blieb weitgehend unberührt.

The historical substance on the upper floor remained largely untouched.

Adverb 'weitgehend'.

6

Im Obergeschoss manifestiert sich der Reichtum der ehemaligen Besitzer.

The wealth of the former owners is manifested on the upper floor.

Reflexive verb 'sich manifestieren'.

7

Die Traglast des Obergeschosses wurde durch neue Stahlträger verstärkt.

The load-bearing capacity of the upper floor was reinforced by new steel beams.

Passive voice with agent 'durch'.

8

Das Obergeschoss fungiert in diesem Entwurf als Ruhezone.

The upper floor functions as a quiet zone in this design.

Verb 'fungieren als'.

1

Die vertikale Erschließung der Obergeschosse erfolgt über einen zentralen Kern.

The vertical access to the upper floors is provided via a central core.

Technical term 'Erschließung'.

2

Das Obergeschoss ist als Staffelgeschoss konzipiert, um Abstandsflächen einzuhalten.

The upper floor is designed as a recessed floor to comply with setback requirements.

Legal/Technical building terminology.

3

In der Beletage, dem repräsentativen ersten Obergeschoss, fanden die Empfänge statt.

In the 'Beletage', the representative first upper floor, the receptions took place.

Apposition 'dem repräsentativen...'.

4

Die thermische Hülle des Obergeschosses entspricht modernsten Passivhaus-Standards.

The thermal envelope of the upper floor corresponds to the latest passive house standards.

Technical term 'thermische Hülle'.

5

Das Obergeschoss kragt über die Grundfläche des Erdgeschosses hinaus.

The upper floor projects beyond the base area of the ground floor.

Separable verb 'hinauskragen'.

6

Die Nutzungseinheiten im Obergeschoss sind flexibel zusammenschaltbar.

The usage units on the upper floor can be flexibly combined.

Suffix '-bar' (meaning 'can be').

7

Die Fassadengestaltung des Obergeschosses kontrastiert bewusst mit dem Sockelgeschoss.

The facade design of the upper floor consciously contrasts with the base floor.

Verb 'kontrastieren mit'.

8

Eine filigrane Glasfassade umschließt das gesamte Obergeschoss.

A delicate glass facade encloses the entire upper floor.

Verb 'umschließen'.

Colocações comuns

im ersten Obergeschoss
ins Obergeschoss gehen
ein ausgebautes Obergeschoss
das oberste Obergeschoss
Treppe zum Obergeschoss
Wohnung im Obergeschoss
Fenster im Obergeschoss
Lärm aus dem Obergeschoss
Balkon im Obergeschoss
Grundriss des Obergeschosses

Frases Comuns

Alles im Obergeschoss

— Everything is on the upper floor. Used to describe the layout of a shop or house.

Die Schlafzimmer sind alle im Obergeschoss.

Ab ins Obergeschoss!

— Off to the upper floor! Often said to children when it's bedtime.

Zähneputzen und dann ab ins Obergeschoss!

Im Obergeschoss wohnen

— To live on the upper floor. A common way to describe one's housing situation.

Wir wohnen lieber im Obergeschoss als im Erdgeschoss.

Nach oben ins Obergeschoss

— Upwards to the upper floor. Emphasizes the direction of movement.

Folgen Sie mir bitte nach oben ins Obergeschoss.

Ein Blick ins Obergeschoss

— A look into the upper floor. Used when showing someone a house.

Werfen wir einen Blick ins Obergeschoss.

Direkt im Obergeschoss

— Right on the upper floor. Used for precise locations.

Die Toilette finden Sie direkt im Obergeschoss links.

Nur über das Obergeschoss

— Only via the upper floor. Used for restricted access routes.

Die Dachterrasse ist nur über das Obergeschoss erreichbar.

Das gesamte Obergeschoss

— The entire upper floor. Used when talking about space or renovations.

Wir haben das gesamte Obergeschoss neu gestrichen.

Mitten im Obergeschoss

— In the middle of the upper floor.

Der Flur liegt mitten im Obergeschoss.

Vom Obergeschoss herab

— Down from the upper floor. Used for sounds or looking down.

Sie rief vom Obergeschoss herab.

Frequentemente confundido com

das Obergeschoss vs Stockwerk

Stockwerk is more general and includes the ground floor in a total count. Obergeschoss specifically means floors above ground.

das Obergeschoss vs Erdgeschoss

This is the ground floor. Some learners confuse 'upper' with 'ground' if they are used to different numbering.

das Obergeschoss vs Dachgeschoss

This is specifically the attic floor. An Obergeschoss can be any middle floor, but a Dachgeschoss is always at the top.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Nicht ganz richtig im Obergeschoss sein"

— To be a bit crazy or 'not all there' in the head. A colloquial and slightly rude way to question someone's sanity.

Hast du das gesehen? Der ist wohl nicht ganz richtig im Obergeschoss!

informal/slang
"Ein weiches Obergeschoss haben"

— To be naive or easily fooled (rare/regional).

Pass auf ihn auf, er hat ein etwas weiches Obergeschoss.

regional
"Im Obergeschoss brennt noch Licht"

— Used metaphorically to mean someone is still thinking or awake, but sometimes used ironically to mean the opposite.

Bei ihm brennt im Obergeschoss wohl noch Licht, er arbeitet die ganze Nacht.

informal
"Das Obergeschoss aufräumen"

— Metaphorically, to clear one's head or get one's thoughts in order.

Ich muss erst mal mein Obergeschoss aufräumen, bevor ich eine Entscheidung treffe.

informal
"Viel Platz im Obergeschoss haben"

— Can be a sarcastic way to say someone is stupid (implying an empty head).

Bei dem Gerede merkt man, dass er viel Platz im Obergeschoss hat.

informal/sarcastic
"Ein Stockwerk höher"

— Literally 'one floor higher', but often used to refer to the Obergeschoss.

Die Antwort finden Sie ein Stockwerk höher.

neutral
"Oben ohne"

— Literally 'topless', but sometimes jokingly used if a house is missing its Obergeschoss or roof during construction.

Noch ist das Haus oben ohne, das Obergeschoss fehlt.

humorous
"Über den Dingen stehen"

— To be above things. While not using the word, it relates to the perspective from the Obergeschoss.

Vom Obergeschoss aus kann man über den Dingen stehen.

figurative
"Hoch hinaus wollen"

— To have high ambitions. Relates to the verticality of floors.

Wer ins oberste Obergeschoss will, muss hoch hinaus wollen.

idiomatic
"Die Treppe rauffallen"

— To be promoted despite incompetence. Relates to moving to a higher floor/level.

Er ist die Treppe raufgefallen und sitzt jetzt im Obergeschoss der Chefetage.

informal

Fácil de confundir

das Obergeschoss vs die Etage

Both mean 'floor'.

Etage is feminine and sounds more elegant; Obergeschoss is neuter and sounds more technical.

In welcher Etage ist das Zimmer? / Das Obergeschoss ist renoviert.

das Obergeschoss vs der Stock

Both mean 'floor'.

Stock is the everyday, spoken word. Obergeschoss is used in writing and official contexts.

Ich wohne im 1. Stock. / Die Praxis befindet sich im 1. OG.

das Obergeschoss vs das Geschoss

Related word.

Geschoss is the general term for a level. Obergeschoss specifies it's an upper level.

Das Gebäude hat fünf Geschosse.

das Obergeschoss vs die Ebene

Both refer to a level.

Ebene is used for technical levels (like in a parking garage) or abstract levels.

Wir treffen uns auf Parkebene 3.

das Obergeschoss vs oben

Both refer to 'up'.

Oben is an adverb (upstairs/above); Obergeschoss is a noun (the upper floor).

Ich bin oben. / Ich bin im Obergeschoss.

Padrões de frases

A1

Das [Nomen] ist im Obergeschoss.

Das Bad ist im Obergeschoss.

A2

Wir gehen ins [Ordinal] Obergeschoss.

Wir gehen ins erste Obergeschoss.

B1

Im Obergeschoss befinden sich [Nomen].

Im Obergeschoss befinden sich drei Zimmer.

B1

Die Wohnung im [Ordinal] OG hat [Eigenschaft].

Die Wohnung im 2. OG hat einen Balkon.

B2

Wegen [Genitiv] ist das Obergeschoss [Adjektiv].

Wegen der Renovierung ist das Obergeschoss gesperrt.

B2

Das Obergeschoss dient als [Nomen].

Das Obergeschoss dient als Büro.

C1

Vom Obergeschoss aus [Verb] man [Objekt].

Vom Obergeschoss aus sieht man den Dom.

C2

Die [Nomen] des Obergeschosses [Verb].

Die Statik des Obergeschosses wurde verstärkt.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

das Erdgeschoss
das Untergeschoss
das Dachgeschoss
das Kellergeschoss
das Zwischengeschoss

Verbos

geschossweise (adverbial use of noun)
aufstocken (to add a floor)

Adjetivos

obergeschossig (rare, architectural)
geschossübergreifend
mehrgeschossig

Relacionado

das Stockwerk
die Etage
die Treppe
der Aufzug
die Decke

Como usar

frequency

Very frequent in written German, signs, and professional contexts.

Erros comuns
  • Ich wohne in der ersten Obergeschoss. Ich wohne im ersten Obergeschoss.

    Obergeschoss is neuter (das), so it must be 'im' (in dem) and the adjective ending is '-en'.

  • Das Haus hat zwei Obergeschoss. Das Haus hat zwei Obergeschosse.

    The plural form is required after a number greater than one.

  • Gehen wir auf das Obergeschoss? Gehen wir ins Obergeschoss?

    We use 'in' for floors, not 'auf' (unless you mean the roof).

  • Das erste Obergeschoss ist das Erdgeschoss. Das erste Obergeschoss ist über dem Erdgeschoss.

    This is a logical mistake based on English floor numbering.

  • Der Obergeschoss ist groß. Das Obergeschoss ist groß.

    Incorrect gender; it is neuter.

Dicas

Gender Check

Always remember 'das Geschoss'. Neuter gender is key for correct adjective endings.

Abbreviation OG

Look for 'OG' on elevator buttons. It's the most common way you'll see the word in real life.

Floor Zero

Remember that the ground floor is 'Floor 0' in your mind. The 'Obergeschoss' count starts at 1.

Formal Writing

Use 'Obergeschoss' in emails to your landlord or boss; use 'Stock' with your friends.

Elevator Voices

Listen to announcements in department stores to hear the word used with ordinal numbers.

Contractions

Use 'im' (in dem) for location and 'ins' (in das) for movement to sound more like a native.

Over-Floor

Associate 'Ober' with 'Over'. It's the floor 'over' the ground.

Apartment Hunting

When an ad says '3. OG ohne Aufzug', be prepared for a lot of stairs!

Technical Plans

In blueprints, OG1, OG2, etc., are standard labels.

Signs

Pay attention to 'Obergeschoss' on fire exit maps in hotels.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Ober' as 'Over' and 'Geschoss' as 'Gross' (large area). The Obergeschoss is the area 'over' the ground floor.

Associação visual

Imagine a house where the ground floor is a dark basement (Erdgeschoss) and the 'Obergeschoss' is filled with bright light and 'O'range trees.

Word Web

Haus Treppe Fenster Wohnen Oben Miete Zimmer Balkon

Desafio

Try to describe your own home. How many 'Obergeschosse' does it have? What rooms are in the 'Obergeschoss'?

Origem da palavra

The word is a compound of 'ober' (from Old High German 'obana', meaning 'from above') and 'Geschoss' (from Middle High German 'geschoz').

Significado original: Originally, 'Geschoss' referred to something shot or thrown. In an architectural context, it referred to the horizontal beams 'thrown' across a structure to create a floor.

Germanic (Indo-European).

Contexto cultural

No specific sensitivities, though in some very old buildings, 'Obergeschoss' accessibility can be a sensitive topic for people with mobility issues due to a lack of elevators.

In the UK, 'First Floor' matches '1. OG'. In the US, 'First Floor' matches 'EG'. This is the #1 source of confusion for travelers.

Architectural plans for the Bauhaus Dessau frequently use 'Obergeschoss' to describe the studio levels. The 'Beletage' in Thomas Mann's novels often serves as the setting for upper-class social interactions. Modern German crime dramas (Tatort) often feature investigations in the 'Obergeschoss' of luxury villas.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Shopping

  • Wo ist die Herrenabteilung? Im 2. OG.
  • Gibt es ein Restaurant im Obergeschoss?
  • Die Rolltreppe führt ins Obergeschoss.
  • Angebote im ersten Obergeschoss.

Real Estate

  • Die Wohnung liegt im 3. Obergeschoss.
  • Das Haus hat zwei Obergeschosse.
  • Gibt es einen Aufzug ins Obergeschoss?
  • Helle Räume im Obergeschoss.

Directions

  • Gehen Sie ins erste Obergeschoss.
  • Das Büro ist im Obergeschoss rechts.
  • Nehmen Sie die Treppe zum Obergeschoss.
  • Warten Sie im Obergeschoss auf mich.

Home Life

  • Die Kinder sind im Obergeschoss.
  • Wir renovieren das Obergeschoss.
  • Ich habe den Schlüssel im Obergeschoss vergessen.
  • Es ist zu warm im Obergeschoss.

Architecture

  • Der Grundriss für das Obergeschoss.
  • Die Deckenhöhe im Obergeschoss.
  • Das Obergeschoss ist aus Holz gebaut.
  • Fensterfront im Obergeschoss.

Iniciadores de conversa

"Wohnst du lieber im Erdgeschoss oder im Obergeschoss?"

"Was befindet sich bei dir zu Hause im Obergeschoss?"

"Hast du schon mal in einem Haus mit mehr als fünf Obergeschossen gewohnt?"

"Findest du es anstrengend, jeden Tag ins dritte Obergeschoss zu laufen?"

"Wie viele Obergeschosse hat das höchste Gebäude in deiner Stadt?"

Temas para diário

Beschreibe dein ideales Haus. Wie viele Obergeschosse hat es und was ist in jedem Stockwerk?

Stell dir vor, du suchst eine Wohnung. Warum würdest du eine Wohnung im Obergeschoss einer Wohnung im Erdgeschoss vorziehen?

Erzähle von einer Situation, in der du dich in einem großen Gebäude mit vielen Obergeschossen verlaufen hast.

Welche Vorteile und Nachteile hat das Leben im obersten Obergeschoss eines Hochhauses?

Beschreibe die Aussicht aus deinem Fenster im Obergeschoss (oder wie sie sein sollte).

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, in Germany, the ground floor is 'EG' (Erdgeschoss). '1. OG' is the first floor above the ground.

The plural is 'die Obergeschosse'. Note the '-e' at the end.

No, you should say 'im Obergeschoss'. 'Auf' would imply you are on the roof of that floor.

Yes, they mean the same thing, but 'Stock' is more informal and 'Obergeschoss' is more formal/technical.

You can say: 'Ich gehe ins Obergeschoss'.

It stands for 'Dachgeschoss', which is the attic floor, a specific type of upper floor.

It is neuter: 'das Obergeschoss'.

Because it is the dative case (after 'in'), and neuter nouns take the '-en' ending for ordinal numbers after the definite article.

Technically as many as the building permits, though most houses have 1 or 2, while office towers have many.

No, for the basement you use 'Untergeschoss' (UG) or 'Kellergeschoss'.

Teste-se 180 perguntas

writing

Describe where the bedroom is in your house using 'Obergeschoss'.

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

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writing

Write a sentence using 'ins erste Obergeschoss'.

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

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writing

Translate: 'The office is on the third upper floor.'

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

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writing

Explain the difference between EG and OG.

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writing

Describe a house with two upper floors.

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writing

Use the word 'Obergeschoss' in a genitive construction.

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writing

Write a direction for someone to go to the second floor.

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writing

Describe the view from an upper floor.

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writing

Write a sentence about a renovation in the upper floor.

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writing

Use 'Obergeschosse' in a plural sentence.

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writing

How do you ask where the toilet is in a store?

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writing

Translate: 'The apartment on the 4th floor has no elevator.'

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writing

Describe what is in the first upper floor of a mall.

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

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writing

Use 'oberste' with 'Obergeschoss'.

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

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writing

Write a sentence about noise from upstairs.

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

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writing

Describe a balcony on the upper floor.

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writing

Translate: 'The stairs to the upper floor are made of wood.'

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writing

Use 'ausgebaut' with 'Obergeschoss'.

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writing

Write a formal request to meet on the 2nd floor.

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writing

Translate: 'Many people live in the upper floors.'

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

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speaking

Say: 'I live on the first upper floor.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask: 'Where is the upper floor?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'We are going upstairs now.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The house has three upper floors.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask: 'Is there an elevator to the 2nd floor?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The bathroom is upstairs on the left.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The view from the upper floor is beautiful.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I left my keys in the upper floor.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Please wait for me on the upper floor.'

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speaking

Say: 'The upper floor is very quiet.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'We are renovating the upper floor.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The stairs lead to the upper floor.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'There are four rooms in the upper floor.'

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speaking

Say: 'It is too hot in the upper floor.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The office is on the fourth floor.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I like living in the upper floor.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Is the upper floor large?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The windows upstairs are new.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Everything is on the upper floor.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I'm going up to the upper floor.'

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Erstes Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Im zweiten OG links.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Aufzug ins Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Drei Obergeschosse.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Wohnung im dritten OG.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Treppe zum Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Alles im Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Viertes Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Lärm im Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Fenster im OG.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Renovierung im Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Kein Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Ausbau des Obergeschosses.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Büro im Obergeschoss.'

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listening

Listen and identify: 'Gehen Sie ins OG.'

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/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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