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A1 noun #2,500 mais comum 16 min de leitura

Decke, die

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas Decke, die em 30 segundos
Explicação Decke, die in your Level:
At the A1 beginner level, the word 'Decke' is introduced primarily as a basic, everyday noun related to the immediate physical environment, specifically the bedroom and the living space. For a beginner, learning 'die Decke' is essential for describing basic needs and simple room layouts. You will first learn it as 'the blanket'. When you are cold, you say 'Ich brauche eine Decke' (I need a blanket). When you go to sleep, you use a Decke. It is a fundamental word for comfort and daily routine. Simultaneously, you will learn its second meaning: 'the ceiling'. When learning the vocabulary for a room (das Zimmer, das Fenster, die Tür, der Boden), 'die Decke' is the word for the top part of the room. You might learn simple sentences like 'Die Lampe ist an der Decke' (The lamp is on the ceiling). At this stage, the focus is purely on vocabulary acquisition and basic sentence structure. You do not need to worry about complex idioms or metaphorical uses. The goal is simply to associate the word 'Decke' with the physical objects: the warm thing on your bed and the flat thing above your head. Teachers will often use visual aids, pointing to the ceiling or showing a picture of a bed, to reinforce these two meanings. You will also practice the definite article 'die' and the plural 'die Decken'. Pronunciation practice is also key here, ensuring the 'ck' is pronounced as a crisp 'k' sound and the final 'e' is a soft schwa sound. Mastering 'Decke' at the A1 level provides a crucial building block for describing your living situation and expressing basic physical states like being cold.
As you progress to the A2 level, your understanding and usage of 'Decke' expand significantly, particularly in the realm of grammar and prepositions. At A1, you learned what the word means; at A2, you learn how to place it accurately in space using two-way prepositions (Wechselpräpositionen). This is a major grammatical milestone. You will practice the difference between location (Dativ) and destination (Akkusativ). For example, you will learn to say 'Die Katze liegt auf der Decke' (The cat is lying on the blanket - Dativ) versus 'Ich lege die Katze auf die Decke' (I put the cat onto the blanket - Akkusativ). Similarly, for the ceiling, you will master 'an der Decke' (on the ceiling) versus 'an die Decke' (onto the ceiling). Furthermore, at the A2 level, you will start encountering and using common compound nouns built with 'Decke'. You will learn 'die Tischdecke' (tablecloth) when discussing meals and setting the table. You will learn 'die Bettdecke' (duvet) when talking about furniture and bedrooms. You will learn 'die Wolldecke' (wool blanket) when discussing materials and weather. This expands your vocabulary exponentially without having to learn entirely new root words. You will also start using 'Decke' in slightly more complex daily scenarios, such as asking a hotel receptionist for an extra blanket: 'Könnte ich bitte noch eine Decke haben?' (Could I please have another blanket?). The focus at A2 is on practical, transactional communication and grammatical accuracy in spatial descriptions, making 'Decke' a perfect word to practice these essential skills.
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At the B1 intermediate level, the usage of 'Decke' transitions from purely literal and physical descriptions to more nuanced and idiomatic expressions. While you will still use it to talk about ceilings and blankets, you will now begin to encounter 'Decke' in common German idioms that are essential for natural-sounding conversation. A classic B1 idiom is 'Mir fällt die Decke auf den Kopf' (literally: the ceiling is falling on my head). You learn to use this phrase to express cabin fever, boredom, or the feeling of being trapped indoors for too long. This demonstrates a significant leap in language proficiency, as you are now using the physical concept of a ceiling metaphorically to describe a psychological state. Additionally, at B1, you will encounter 'Decke' in broader contexts, such as weather reports. You will learn the compound 'die Wolkendecke' (cloud cover) and 'die Schneedecke' (snow cover), expanding your vocabulary into the natural world. You will also be expected to use 'Decke' in more complex sentence structures, such as relative clauses: 'Die Decke, die ich gestern gekauft habe, ist sehr weich' (The blanket that I bought yesterday is very soft). You will discuss home renovations, talking about painting the ceiling ('die Decke streichen') or repairing it. The B1 level is about moving beyond basic survival language and starting to express thoughts, feelings, and more detailed descriptions, and the versatile word 'Decke' plays a vital role in this transition, bridging the gap between concrete objects and abstract feelings.
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Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level means you are now dealing with more complex texts, professional environments, and subtle nuances in the German language. Your use of 'Decke' will reflect this advanced proficiency. At this stage, you will encounter 'Decke' in journalistic, architectural, and literary contexts. You might read articles about building construction discussing 'die abgehängte Decke' (suspended ceiling) or 'die Betondecke' (concrete ceiling). You will understand the structural implications of these terms. Idiomatically, your repertoire will expand. You will learn phrases like 'an die Decke gehen' (to hit the ceiling / to become extremely angry) and use it naturally in narratives or discussions about emotions and conflicts. You will also encounter the idiom 'sich nach der Decke strecken' (to cut one's coat according to one's cloth / to live within one's means), which is frequently used in discussions about personal finance or economic constraints. At B2, you are expected to understand these idioms without needing a literal translation. Furthermore, you will use 'Decke' in passive voice constructions and complex hypothetical scenarios. For example: 'Wenn die Decke nicht rechtzeitig gestrichen worden wäre, hätte das Zimmer unfertig ausgesehen' (If the ceiling had not been painted in time, the room would have looked unfinished). The focus at B2 is on fluency, precision, and the ability to understand and produce language that is rich in cultural and idiomatic context. The word 'Decke', with its dual meaning and rich metaphorical extensions, provides ample opportunity to demonstrate this advanced level of linguistic competence.
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At the C1 advanced level, your mastery of 'Decke' is expected to be near-native, encompassing highly specific jargon, complex literary metaphors, and deep cultural idioms. You will effortlessly navigate the subtle differences between various types of coverings and ceilings in specialized contexts. For instance, in a socio-economic or political discussion, you will use and understand the term 'die gläserne Decke' (the glass ceiling), referring to the invisible barrier that prevents women or minorities from rising to upper-level positions. This shows a high level of abstract thinking and cultural awareness. You will also use advanced idioms such as 'unter einer Decke stecken' (to be in cahoots / to collude), applying it to complex narratives about politics, crime, or workplace dynamics. At C1, you are not just using the word; you are playing with its imagery. You might read a novel where the author describes a 'bleierne Decke der Stille' (a leaden blanket of silence), and you will immediately grasp the heavy, oppressive atmosphere being conveyed. Your grammatical control is flawless, allowing you to use 'Decke' in highly complex, multi-clause sentences with perfect prepositional and case accuracy. You can discuss the acoustic properties of a 'Schallschutzdecke' (acoustic ceiling) or the historical significance of a 'Stuckdecke' (stucco ceiling) in an art history context. At this level, 'Decke' is no longer just a vocabulary word to be learned; it is a versatile linguistic tool that you wield with precision and creativity to express sophisticated ideas, critique social structures, and analyze literary texts.
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At the C2 mastery level, your understanding of 'Decke' transcends standard usage and enters the realm of complete linguistic fluency, encompassing historical, regional, and highly specialized applications. You possess an intuitive grasp of the word's etymology and its subtle connotations across different registers of the German language. You can effortlessly comprehend and employ 'Decke' in academic treatises, legal documents, or classic literature. For example, in a geological context, you might discuss 'tektonische Decken' (tectonic nappes/sheets), demonstrating an ability to apply the core concept of a covering to complex scientific phenomena. You are aware of regional variations and dialectal nuances, perhaps knowing when a specific region might prefer a different term for a blanket, though 'Decke' remains universally understood. Your use of idioms is not only accurate but also perfectly timed and contextually flawless. You can invent your own metaphors based on the concept of 'Decke', knowing exactly how far you can stretch the word's meaning before it breaks. You can engage in deep philosophical or psychological discussions using the imagery of ceilings as limits of human potential or blankets as psychological defense mechanisms. At C2, you do not translate 'Decke' in your head; you feel its weight, its warmth, its structural boundary, and its metaphorical power directly in German. You can correct subtle prepositional errors made by lower-level learners and explain the historical evolution of the word's usage. The word 'Decke' is fully integrated into your German identity, a testament to your absolute mastery of the language's depth and flexibility.
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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

Decke, die em 30 segundos

  • Meaning 1: Ceiling (upper surface of a room).
  • Meaning 2: Blanket (warm covering for a bed).
  • Gender: Feminine (die Decke, plural: die Decken).
  • Prepositions: an der Decke (ceiling), unter der Decke (blanket).
The German noun 'Decke' is a remarkably versatile and frequently used word that primarily carries two distinct but conceptually related meanings, both of which revolve around the fundamental idea of covering or enclosing something. On one hand, 'die Decke' translates to 'the ceiling' in English, referring to the upper interior surface of a room or any enclosed architectural space. On the other hand, it translates to 'the blanket' or 'the cover', referring to a piece of fabric, often thick and warm, used to cover oneself while sleeping or resting. Understanding this duality is absolutely essential for any learner of the German language, as the specific meaning is almost always entirely dependent on the context in which the word is used. When you walk into a room and look up, you are looking at the Decke. When you go to bed and pull a warm layer over your body to protect yourself from the cold winter air, you are pulling up the Decke. This shared etymological and conceptual foundation—the act of covering—makes the word both fascinating and highly practical. In architectural terms, the Decke serves as the physical boundary that separates one floor from another or encloses the top of a single-story structure. It can be decorated, painted, vaulted, or suspended. In domestic and personal terms, a Decke provides comfort, warmth, and security. It can be made of wool, cotton, fleece, or synthetic materials. The dual nature of this word often surprises beginners, but it perfectly illustrates the efficiency of the German lexicon, where a single root concept is applied to multiple physical realities. Furthermore, the word extends into various compound nouns that specify its exact nature, such as 'Zimmerdecke' for the ceiling of a room, 'Bettdecke' for a duvet or bed blanket, 'Wolldecke' for a woolen blanket, and 'Tischdecke' for a tablecloth. Each of these compounds reinforces the core idea of a covering layer. Beyond the physical objects, 'Decke' is also used in numerous idiomatic expressions and metaphorical contexts, which we will explore in later sections. For now, it is crucial to internalize these two primary physical meanings. To help solidify this understanding, let us examine some specific examples and structural breakdowns.
Primary Meaning 1
Ceiling: The overhead interior surface of a room.
Primary Meaning 2
Blanket: A large piece of cloth used for warmth.
Conceptual Link
Both meanings share the core function of covering or enclosing a space or a person.

Die Lampe hängt an der Decke, die sehr hoch ist.

Mir ist kalt, ich brauche eine warme Decke, die aus Wolle besteht.

Wir streichen die Decke, die im Wohnzimmer ist, komplett weiß.

Er versteckt sich unter der Decke, die auf dem Bett liegt.

Die Katze schläft auf der Decke, die ich gestern gekauft habe.

The psychological comfort associated with a blanket and the structural security provided by a ceiling both contribute to the profound importance of this word in everyday German life. Whether you are discussing interior design, planning a renovation, preparing for a cold night, or setting a table for dinner, you will inevitably need to use the word Decke. Its simplicity in form belies its immense utility and frequency in both spoken and written German across all registers and dialects.
Using the noun 'Decke' correctly in German requires a solid understanding of its grammatical properties, particularly its gender, pluralization, and the specific prepositions that govern its use in various contexts. First and foremost, 'Decke' is a feminine noun, which means it takes the definite article 'die' in the nominative and accusative cases, 'der' in the dative case, and 'der' in the genitive case. The plural form is 'die Decken', which is formed simply by adding an 'n' to the singular form. This regular pluralization makes it relatively easy for learners to remember and apply. However, the true complexity and nuance of using 'Decke' emerge when we examine the prepositions associated with its two primary meanings. When 'Decke' refers to a ceiling, it is most commonly used with the two-way preposition 'an'. If you are describing a static location—for example, a lamp hanging on the ceiling—you must use the dative case: 'Die Lampe hängt an der Decke'. If you are describing a motion or an action directed toward the ceiling—for example, looking up at the ceiling or throwing something onto the ceiling—you must use the accusative case: 'Er schaut an die Decke' or 'Er wirft den Ball an die Decke'. This distinction between 'an der Decke' (location) and 'an die Decke' (direction) is a classic grammar point that requires practice. On the other hand, when 'Decke' refers to a blanket, the prepositions change based on how the blanket is being used. If you are under the blanket, you use the preposition 'unter' with the dative case: 'Ich liege unter der Decke'. If you are placing something on top of the blanket, you use the preposition 'auf' with the accusative case: 'Ich lege das Buch auf die Decke'. If something is resting on the blanket, you use 'auf' with the dative case: 'Die Katze schläft auf der Decke'. Furthermore, 'Decke' is incredibly productive in forming compound nouns. By attaching a specifying noun to the front of 'Decke', German creates highly precise vocabulary. For instance, 'Zimmerdecke' explicitly means the ceiling of a room, removing any ambiguity. 'Bettdecke' refers specifically to a duvet or blanket used on a bed. 'Tischdecke' translates to tablecloth, 'Wolldecke' means wool blanket, 'Kuscheldecke' means a cozy throw blanket, and 'Picknickdecke' means a picnic blanket. Understanding how to construct and deconstruct these compound nouns is vital for expanding your vocabulary efficiently. Let us review some key grammatical rules and examples to reinforce these concepts.
Grammar Rule 1
Gender and Plural: Feminine noun (die Decke), plural adds -n (die Decken).
Grammar Rule 2
Prepositions for Ceiling: Use 'an' + Dative for location (an der Decke) and 'an' + Accusative for direction (an die Decke).
Grammar Rule 3
Prepositions for Blanket: Use 'unter' + Dative when underneath (unter der Decke) and 'auf' + Dative when on top (auf der Decke).

Der Ventilator ist fest an der Decke, die aus Holz ist, montiert.

Bitte lege die saubere Decke, die ich gewaschen habe, auf das Sofa.

Wir brauchen eine neue Decke, die besser zum Teppich passt.

Er starrte stundenlang an die Decke, die Risse aufwies.

Im Winter schlafe ich gerne unter einer dicken Decke, die mich wärmt.

Mastering the usage of 'Decke' involves not just knowing its translation, but also feeling comfortable with the spatial relationships expressed by German prepositions. Practice visualizing the physical space: are you looking up at a surface, or are you wrapping yourself in a fabric? This visualization technique will help you naturally select the correct preposition and case, making your German sound much more fluent and authentic.
The word 'Decke' is ubiquitous in the German language, appearing in a vast array of contexts ranging from mundane daily conversations to specialized professional jargon and poetic literature. Because it encompasses both the architectural concept of a ceiling and the domestic concept of a blanket, you will encounter this word in almost every facet of life in a German-speaking country. In the context of home and living, 'Decke' is a staple of bedroom and living room vocabulary. When shopping at a furniture store like IKEA or a local German 'Möbelhaus', you will see signs for 'Decken' in the bedding department, referring to duvets and throws. You will hear parents telling their children, 'Zieh die Decke hoch!' (Pull the blanket up!) on cold winter nights. In hotels, you might call the reception to ask for 'eine zusätzliche Decke' (an extra blanket). In the context of architecture, construction, and real estate, 'Decke' is equally prominent. When viewing an apartment, a real estate agent (Makler) might point out the 'hohe Decken' (high ceilings) characteristic of an 'Altbau' (old building), which is a highly sought-after feature in cities like Berlin or Vienna. Construction workers discuss 'die abgehängte Decke' (the suspended ceiling) or 'die Betondecke' (the concrete ceiling). Interior designers talk about painting the Decke or installing lighting fixtures 'an der Decke'. Beyond the literal physical objects, 'Decke' frequently appears in meteorology and earth sciences. Weather reports on German television often mention the 'Wolkendecke' (cloud cover), describing whether it is dense (geschlossen) or broken (aufgelockert). In winter, news anchors might report on the 'Schneedecke' (snow cover) in the Alps, indicating how many centimeters of snow have accumulated. Furthermore, 'Decke' is deeply embedded in German idiomatic expressions, which you will hear in casual conversations, movies, and literature. If someone is feeling claustrophobic or bored at home, they might say, 'Mir fällt die Decke auf den Kopf' (The ceiling is falling on my head / I'm getting cabin fever). If two people are secretly conspiring together, they are said to 'unter einer Decke stecken' (to be in cahoots / to stick under one blanket). If someone gets extremely angry and loses their temper, they might 'an die Decke gehen' (hit the ceiling). These idioms demonstrate how the physical properties of a ceiling (a limiting upper boundary) and a blanket (a hidden, shared space) are used metaphorically to express complex psychological and social situations. Let us look at some specific domains where this word is commonly used.
Context 1: Real Estate
Used to describe the height and style of ceilings in apartments (e.g., Altbau mit hohen Decken).
Context 2: Hospitality
Used when requesting extra bedding in hotels or guesthouses (e.g., Ich brauche noch eine Decke).
Context 3: Meteorology
Used as a suffix to describe layers of weather phenomena (e.g., Wolkendecke, Schneedecke).

Im Altbau lieben wir die hohe Decke, die den Raum größer wirken lässt.

Nach drei Tagen Regen fiel ihm die Decke, die ihn umgab, auf den Kopf.

Die dicke Decke, die aus Schnee bestand, bedeckte das ganze Tal.

Sie stecken unter einer Decke, die ihre geheimen Pläne verbirgt.

Er ging fast an die Decke, die Metapher für seine immense Wut war.

By paying attention to these various contexts, you will quickly realize that 'Decke' is not just a basic vocabulary word to be memorized and forgotten, but a dynamic and essential component of fluent German communication. Its presence in idioms, compound nouns, and everyday phrases makes it a key word to master for anyone aiming to achieve a high level of proficiency in the language.
Despite its frequent use, the word 'Decke' is a common source of errors for German learners, particularly those whose native language is English. The most prevalent mistake stems from the confusion between the interior ceiling and the exterior roof. In English, these are two completely distinct words: 'ceiling' and 'roof'. In German, they are also distinct: 'Decke' and 'Dach'. However, because learners often associate 'Decke' with 'cover', they sometimes incorrectly use 'Decke' to refer to the roof of a house, or conversely, use 'Dach' to refer to the ceiling of a room. It is crucial to remember that the 'Decke' is strictly the interior upper surface that you see from inside a room, while the 'Dach' is the exterior structure that protects the building from rain and snow. You paint the Decke, but you repair the Dach. Another frequent error involves the incorrect choice of prepositions, which we touched upon in the usage section. Learners often translate the English phrase 'on the ceiling' literally as 'auf der Decke'. In German, 'auf' implies resting on top of a horizontal surface. Therefore, 'auf der Decke' means 'on top of the blanket' or 'on top of the tablecloth'. If you want to say that a spider is on the ceiling, you must use the preposition 'an', which denotes attachment to a vertical or overhead surface. The correct phrase is 'Die Spinne sitzt an der Decke'. Using 'auf der Decke' for a ceiling sounds absurd to a native speaker, as it implies the spider is somehow walking on the upper side of the ceiling board, perhaps in the floor above. Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the distinction between 'Decke' (blanket) and 'Bettdecke' (duvet/bed blanket). While 'Decke' is a general term that can refer to any blanket, 'Bettdecke' specifically refers to the thick, often down-filled covering used for sleeping in a bed. If you are sitting on the sofa watching TV, you would use a 'Decke' or 'Kuscheldecke', not a 'Bettdecke'. Using 'Bettdecke' in the living room sounds slightly unnatural, as it implies you dragged your heavy bedding out of the bedroom. Let us highlight these common pitfalls to help you avoid them.
Mistake 1: Decke vs. Dach
Using Decke (ceiling) when you mean Dach (exterior roof). The roof is outside, the ceiling is inside.
Mistake 2: Preposition 'auf' vs. 'an'
Saying 'auf der Decke' (on the blanket) when you mean 'an der Decke' (attached to the ceiling).
Mistake 3: General vs. Specific
Using Bettdecke (bed duvet) when referring to a simple throw blanket (Decke/Kuscheldecke) on a sofa.

Falsch: Der Vogel sitzt auf der Decke, die das Haus schützt. (Richtig: auf dem Dach)

Falsch: Die Lampe ist auf der Decke, die weiß ist. (Richtig: an der Decke)

Richtig: Der Fleck ist an der Decke, die neu gestrichen werden muss.

Richtig: Ich lege mich auf die Decke, die im Park auf dem Gras liegt.

Richtig: Das Haus hat ein rotes Dach und eine weiße Decke, die hoch ist.

By consciously practicing the distinction between Decke and Dach, and by mastering the spatial prepositions 'an' and 'auf', you can easily eliminate these common errors. Remember that German is a highly precise language when it comes to spatial relationships, and using the correct preposition is just as important as using the correct noun. Taking the time to visualize the scenario before speaking will greatly improve your accuracy and confidence.
When expanding your German vocabulary, it is highly beneficial to study words that are similar in meaning or function to 'Decke'. This not only helps you choose the most precise word for a given situation but also deepens your overall understanding of semantic fields in German. As we have already discussed, the most critical distinction to make is between 'Decke' (ceiling) and 'Dach' (roof). While both serve as a top covering, 'Dach' is strictly the exterior architectural structure. Another word that learners sometimes confuse with 'Decke' is 'Teppich' (carpet or rug). While both a blanket and a rug are large pieces of textile, a 'Teppich' belongs exclusively on the floor, whereas a 'Decke' is used to cover a person, a bed, or a table. In the realm of bedding, there are several specific terms that are related to 'Decke'. 'Das Laken' or 'das Bettlaken' refers to the bedsheet, the thin layer of fabric that covers the mattress or lies directly against the skin under the heavier blanket. 'Der Überzug' or 'der Bettbezug' refers to the duvet cover, the removable fabric casing that goes over the 'Bettdecke' to keep it clean. Understanding the difference between the Decke (the warm inner part) and the Bezug (the washable outer part) is essential when doing laundry or making a bed in a German-speaking country. For smaller, lighter blankets often used in the living room, you might hear the word 'das Plaid', a loanword from English/Scottish that specifically means a throw blanket, usually with a fringed edge. Another related term is 'die Hülle', which translates to a cover, casing, or shell. While 'Decke' implies a flat layer of covering, 'Hülle' implies something that completely encloses or wraps around an object, like a phone case (Handyhülle) or a protective cover for outdoor furniture. In a more abstract or poetic sense, you might encounter the word 'das Gewölbe' (the vault), which refers to an arched ceiling, often found in churches or wine cellars. While a Gewölbe is technically a type of Decke, it is a highly specific architectural term. Let us break down these similar words to clarify their distinct usages.
Similar Word 1: Das Dach
The exterior roof of a building, protecting it from the weather.
Similar Word 2: Das Laken
The bedsheet, a thin piece of fabric covering the mattress.
Similar Word 3: Der Bezug
The removable cover for a duvet or pillow, used for hygiene.

Im Gegensatz zum Dach ist die Decke, die wir sehen, im Hausinneren.

Wir brauchen nicht nur eine Decke, die wärmt, sondern auch ein Laken.

Der Bezug schützt die eigentliche Decke, die schwer zu waschen ist.

Das Gewölbe ist eine spezielle Art von Decke, die gebogen ist.

Ein Plaid ist oft dünner als eine normale Decke, die fürs Bett gedacht ist.

By distinguishing 'Decke' from these related terms, you refine your vocabulary and avoid awkward misunderstandings. Recognizing the specific function of each covering—whether it is for the floor, the roof, the mattress, or the body—allows you to navigate daily life in German with much greater precision and cultural competence.

How Formal Is It?

Nível de dificuldade

Gramática essencial

Wechselpräpositionen (Two-way prepositions)

Komposita (Compound nouns)

Adjektivdeklination (Adjective declension with feminine nouns)

Dativ vs. Akkusativ (Location vs. Motion)

Relativsätze (Relative clauses)

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Exemplos por nível

1

Das ist eine Decke.

This is a blanket.

Nominative case, feminine article 'eine'.

2

Ich brauche die Decke.

I need the blanket.

Accusative case, direct object of 'brauchen'.

3

Die Decke ist weiß.

The ceiling/blanket is white.

Predicate adjective 'weiß'.

4

Wo ist meine Decke?

Where is my blanket?

Possessive pronoun 'meine'.

5

Die Lampe ist an der Decke.

The lamp is on the ceiling.

Dative case with preposition 'an' for location.

6

Mir ist kalt, gib mir die Decke.

I am cold, give me the blanket.

Imperative 'gib' with accusative object.

7

Das Baby schläft unter der Decke.

The baby is sleeping under the blanket.

Dative case with preposition 'unter'.

8

Wir haben zwei Decken.

We have two blankets.

Plural form 'Decken'.

1

Ich lege das Buch auf die Decke.

I lay the book onto the blanket.

Accusative case with 'auf' for motion.

2

Die Katze liegt auf der Decke.

The cat is lying on the blanket.

Dative case with 'auf' for location.

3

Wir streichen heute die Decke im Wohnzimmer.

We are painting the ceiling in the living room today.

Accusative object of 'streichen'.

4

Können Sie mir bitte eine extra Decke bringen?

Can you please bring me an extra blanket?

Polite request with modal verb 'können'.

5

Die Zimmerdecke ist sehr hoch.

The room ceiling is very high.

Compound noun 'Zimmerdecke'.

6

Er schaut an die Decke und denkt nach.

He looks at the ceiling and thinks.

Accusative case with 'an' for direction of gaze.

7

Hast du die rote Wolldecke gesehen?

Have you seen the red wool blanket?

Compound noun 'Wolldecke' in perfect tense.

8

Die Spinnen hängen oft an der Decke.

Spiders often hang on the ceiling.

Plural subject with dative location.

1

Nach drei Tagen Regen fiel mir die Decke auf den Kopf.

After three days of rain, I got cabin fever.

Idiom: 'die Decke fällt jemandem auf den Kopf'.

2

Die dichte Wolkendecke ließ keinen Sonnenstrahl durch.

The thick cloud cover let no sunbeam through.

Compound noun 'Wolkendecke' as subject.

3

Ich habe eine Decke gekauft, die besonders warm ist.

I bought a blanket that is especially warm.

Relative clause with 'die'.

4

Um Heizkosten zu sparen, wickeln wir uns in dicke Decken.

To save heating costs, we wrap ourselves in thick blankets.

Reflexive verb 'sich wickeln' with preposition 'in'.

5

Der Handwerker hat ein Loch in die Decke gebohrt.

The craftsman drilled a hole into the ceiling.

Accusative direction with 'in'.

6

Eine dicke Schneedecke lag über der ganzen Stadt.

A thick snow cover lay over the whole city.

Compound noun 'Schneedecke'.

7

Sie versteckte das Geschenk unter der Decke, damit er es nicht sieht.

She hid the present under the blanket so he wouldn't see it.

Subordinate clause with 'damit'.

8

Die neue Tischdecke passt perfekt zu den Vorhängen.

The new tablecloth matches the curtains perfectly.

Compound noun 'Tischdecke' with verb 'passen zu'.

1

Als er die Nachricht hörte, ging er sofort an die Decke.

When he heard the news, he immediately hit the ceiling (got angry).

Idiom 'an die Decke gehen' for extreme anger.

2

Die abgehängte Decke verbirgt die unschönen Rohre und Kabel.

The suspended ceiling hides the ugly pipes and cables.

Participle adjective 'abgehängte'.

3

Wir müssen uns nach der Decke strecken, da das Budget knapp ist.

We have to live within our means because the budget is tight.

Idiom 'sich nach der Decke strecken'.

4

Die Decke des alten Gewölbes wurde aufwendig restauriert.

The ceiling of the old vault was elaborately restored.

Genitive attribute 'des alten Gewölbes' and passive voice.

5

Es wird vermutet, dass die beiden Politiker unter einer Decke stecken.

It is suspected that the two politicians are in cahoots.

Idiom 'unter einer Decke stecken' in a 'dass' clause.

6

Trotz der dicken Decke fror sie erbärmlich in der ungeheizten Wohnung.

Despite the thick blanket, she froze miserably in the unheated apartment.

Preposition 'trotz' with genitive/dative.

7

Die Stuckdecke aus dem 19. Jahrhundert steht unter Denkmalschutz.

The stucco ceiling from the 19th century is a listed monument.

Compound noun 'Stuckdecke' and specialized vocabulary.

8

Eine geschlossene Wolkendecke verhinderte die Beobachtung der Mondfinsternis.

A closed cloud cover prevented the observation of the lunar eclipse.

Advanced vocabulary 'geschlossene Wolkendecke'.

1

Die gläserne Decke in vielen Unternehmen hindert Frauen oft am Aufstieg in Führungspositionen.

The glass ceiling in many companies often prevents women from rising to management positions.

Metaphorical term 'gläserne Decke'.

2

Eine bleierne Decke des Schweigens legte sich über die Versammlung, als die Vorwürfe laut wurden.

A leaden blanket of silence settled over the assembly when the accusations were voiced.

Poetic/literary metaphor 'bleierne Decke des Schweigens'.

3

Der Architekt entwarf eine freitragende Decke, die ohne sichtbare Stützen auskommt.

The architect designed a cantilevered ceiling that manages without visible supports.

Technical architectural term 'freitragende Decke'.

4

Es ist ein offenes Geheimnis, dass die Kartelle mit den lokalen Behörden unter einer Decke stecken.

It is an open secret that the cartels are in cahoots with the local authorities.

Advanced use of the idiom 'unter einer Decke stecken'.

5

Die tektonische Decke wurde im Laufe von Millionen Jahren über das jüngere Gestein geschoben.

The tectonic nappe was pushed over the younger rock over the course of millions of years.

Scientific/geological term 'tektonische Decke'.

6

Er versuchte, die Affäre unter der Decke zu halten, aber die Presse bekam Wind davon.

He tried to keep the affair under wraps, but the press caught wind of it.

Idiom 'etwas unter der Decke halten' (to keep something secret).

7

Die akustische Decke absorbiert den Schall und sorgt für eine angenehme Arbeitsatmosphäre im Großraumbüro.

The acoustic ceiling absorbs the sound and ensures a pleasant working atmosphere in the open-plan office.

Technical term 'akustische Decke'.

8

Wenn man die Decke zu hoch hängt, verliert der Raum seine intime und gemütliche Proportion.

If one hangs the ceiling too high, the room loses its intimate and cozy proportion.

Abstract discussion of architectural aesthetics.

1

Die metaphorische Decke der Zivilisation erweist sich in Krisenzeiten oft als erschreckend dünn.

The metaphorical blanket of civilization often proves to be frighteningly thin in times of crisis.

Highly abstract philosophical metaphor.

2

In der barocken Sakralarchitektur dient die freskierte Decke als illusionistisches Fenster zum Himmel.

In Baroque sacred architecture, the frescoed ceiling serves as an illusionistic window to heaven.

Academic art history terminology.

3

Die Inversionswetterlage führte zu einer hartnäckigen Hochnebeldecke, die das Tal wochenlang in Grau hüllte.

The temperature inversion led to a persistent high fog cover that enveloped the valley in gray for weeks.

Advanced meteorological terminology.

4

Seine ständigen Provokationen brachten sie schließlich dazu, an die Decke zu gehen und die Verhandlungen abzubrechen.

His constant provocations finally caused her to hit the ceiling and break off the negotiations.

Idiom used in a complex narrative structure.

5

Die Kassettendecke aus der Renaissance zeugt von der meisterhaften Handwerkskunst jener Epoche.

The coffered ceiling from the Renaissance bears witness to the masterful craftsmanship of that era.

Specialized architectural term 'Kassettendecke'.

6

Man kann nicht ewig unter einer Decke stecken; irgendwann kommt die Wahrheit unweigerlich ans Licht.

One cannot be in cahoots forever; eventually, the truth inevitably comes to light.

Proverbial use of the idiom.

7

Die Schneedecke fungiert als isolierende Schicht, die das Überleben der alpinen Flora im strengen Winter sichert.

The snow cover functions as an insulating layer that ensures the survival of alpine flora in the harsh winter.

Scientific/ecological explanation.

8

Er fühlte sich von der niedrigen Decke des Zimmers geradezu physisch erdrückt, ein Symptom seiner aufkommenden Klaustrophobie.

He felt almost physically crushed by the low ceiling of the room, a symptom of his emerging claustrophobia.

Psychological and literary description.

Colocações comuns

an der Decke
unter der Decke
die Decke streichen
eine warme Decke
die Decke fällt auf den Kopf
hohe Decken
abgehängte Decke
unter einer Decke stecken
an die Decke gehen
eine dicke Decke

Frases Comuns

an der Decke hängen
sich mit der Decke zudecken
die Decke streichen
unter die Decke kriechen
eine Decke überwerfen
die Decke anstarren
eine Decke ausbreiten
die Decke abhängen
eine Decke weben
die Decke falten

Frequentemente confundido com

Decke, die vs Dach (Roof)

Decke, die vs Teppich (Carpet)

Decke, die vs Laken (Sheet)

Expressões idiomáticas

"Mir fällt die Decke auf den Kopf"
"an die Decke gehen"
"unter einer Decke stecken"
"sich nach der Decke strecken"
"etwas unter der Decke halten"
"die gläserne Decke"
"eine bleierne Decke"
"die Decke über den Kopf ziehen"
"unter die Decke gehen"
"die Decke auf den Kopf fallen lassen"

Fácil de confundir

Decke, die vs

Decke, die vs

Decke, die vs

Decke, die vs

Decke, die vs

Padrões de frases

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Como usar

note 1

Do not confuse 'Decke' (interior ceiling) with 'Dach' (exterior roof).

note 2

'Bettdecke' is specifically for sleeping; use 'Kuscheldecke' or just 'Decke' for a sofa throw.

Erros comuns
  • Confusing 'Decke' (interior ceiling) with 'Dach' (exterior roof).
  • Using the preposition 'auf' instead of 'an' when talking about something attached to the ceiling (e.g., saying 'auf der Decke' instead of 'an der Decke').
  • Using 'Bettdecke' (bed duvet) when referring to a simple throw blanket on a sofa.
  • Forgetting that 'Decke' is a feminine noun and using the wrong article (e.g., saying 'der Decke' in the nominative case).
  • Mispronouncing the short 'e' as a long 'e', making it sound like 'Deh-ke' instead of 'Deck-e'.

Dicas

Preposition Trick

Associate 'an' with the ceiling and 'unter/auf' with the blanket. If you look UP, use 'an'. If you lie DOWN, use 'unter' or 'auf'.

Compound Power

Learn 'Decke' as a suffix. Once you know 'Decke', you instantly know Tischdecke, Bettdecke, and Wolldecke. Just add the descriptive noun to the front.

Cabin Fever

Memorize 'Mir fällt die Decke auf den Kopf'. It is the most natural way to say you are bored of being at home. Native speakers use this constantly in winter.

Dach vs. Decke

Never call the roof a Decke. Dach = Outside. Decke = Inside. Paint the Decke, repair the Dach.

The German Bed

Remember that German beds usually have two separate 'Bettdecken' for two people. Sharing one large blanket is not the norm in Germany.

Short E

Keep the first 'e' short. It is 'Deck-e', not 'Deee-cke'. A long 'e' will make you sound unnatural.

Tablecloths

Don't forget that 'Tischdecke' is the word for tablecloth. It literally means 'table blanket', which makes perfect logical sense.

Weather Forecasts

Watch German weather reports and listen for 'Wolkendecke' (cloud cover). It's a great way to practice listening for compound nouns.

Feminine Gender

Always learn the article with the noun: 'die Decke'. Since it ends in '-e', it follows the general rule that most German nouns ending in '-e' are feminine.

Hitting the Ceiling

'An die Decke gehen' is easy to remember because it translates perfectly to English. Use it next time you describe someone getting angry.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Imagine a DECK of cards spread out to make a BLANKET, which you then throw up to stick to the CEILING.

Origem da palavra

Middle High German 'decke', Old High German 'decki'.

Contexto cultural

German beds usually have individual duvets (Bettdecken) rather than one shared blanket.

'Altbauwohnungen' (old apartments) are famous and desired for their 'hohe Decken' (high ceilings).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Iniciadores de conversa

"Hast du eine warme Decke für mich?"

"Wie hoch sind die Decken in deiner Wohnung?"

"Fällt dir im Winter auch oft die Decke auf den Kopf?"

"Bevorzugst du eine dicke oder eine dünne Bettdecke?"

"Müssen wir die Decke im Wohnzimmer neu streichen?"

Temas para diário

Beschreibe dein Schlafzimmer. Wo ist die Decke und welche Farbe hat sie?

Was machst du, wenn dir die Decke auf den Kopf fällt?

Schreibe über einen Moment, in dem du fast an die Decke gegangen bist.

Welche Art von Decke (Material, Farbe) magst du am liebsten und warum?

Vergleiche die Decken in einem modernen Haus mit denen in einem Altbau.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

It means both! The meaning depends entirely on the context. If you are talking about painting a room, it means ceiling. If you are talking about being cold in bed, it means blanket. Look at the verbs and prepositions used with it to figure out the meaning. Native speakers never confuse the two because the context always makes it clear.

The plural is 'die Decken'. You simply add an 'n' to the singular form. This is a very regular and easy plural form to remember. For example: 'Wir haben drei warme Decken' (We have three warm blankets).

In German, 'auf' implies resting on top of a horizontal surface. If you say 'auf der Decke', it means on top of the blanket. 'An' is used for vertical surfaces or things attached to a surface, like a ceiling. So, a lamp hangs 'an der Decke'.

This is a very common idiom. It literally translates to 'The ceiling is falling on my head'. It means you are getting cabin fever, feeling claustrophobic, or are extremely bored from being indoors for too long. You use it when you desperately need to go outside.

Yes. 'Decke' is the general word for any blanket or ceiling. 'Bettdecke' specifically refers to the thick duvet or blanket you use for sleeping in a bed. A small blanket on the sofa would just be a 'Decke' or a 'Kuscheldecke', not a 'Bettdecke'.

No, 'roof' is 'das Dach'. This is a very common mistake for English speakers. The 'Dach' is the exterior structure on top of the house that protects it from rain. The 'Decke' is the interior surface you see when you look up inside a room.

This idiom literally means 'to go to the ceiling'. It is the exact equivalent of the English idiom 'to hit the ceiling'. It means to become suddenly and violently angry. For example: 'Mein Chef ist an die Decke gegangen' (My boss hit the ceiling).

Yes, 'Decke' is used to form many compound nouns. Common examples include 'Tischdecke' (tablecloth), 'Wolkendecke' (cloud cover), 'Schneedecke' (snow cover), and 'Picknickdecke' (picnic blanket). The gender of all these words is feminine (die).

It is pronounced with a short 'e' sound at the beginning, like in the English word 'deck'. The 'ck' is a crisp 'k' sound. The final 'e' is a soft schwa sound, like the 'a' in 'sofa'. Phonetically: [ˈdɛkə].

This idiom literally means 'to stick under one blanket'. It means to be in cahoots, to collude, or to secretly plot together. It paints a picture of two people hiding under a blanket to whisper secrets.

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