Kehren
To sweep, to clean with a broom.
Kehren em 30 segundos
- Kehren: To sweep with a broom.
- Common household chore verb.
- Past participle: gekehrt.
- Used for floors, yards, and paths.
The German verb 'kehren' is primarily used to describe the action of sweeping or cleaning with a broom. It's a very common and practical verb, especially when talking about household chores or maintaining cleanliness in various spaces. Imagine a cozy German home; the act of tidying up often involves 'kehren'.
- Core Meaning
- To sweep or clean with a broom.
- Contexts
- Household chores, cleaning public spaces, tidying up.
Die Hausfrau muss die Küche kehren.
Beyond the literal act of sweeping, 'kehren' can also be used metaphorically, though this is less common at the B1 level. For instance, one might talk about 'eine Kehrtwende machen,' which means to make a U-turn or a complete change of direction, both literally and figuratively. However, for learners at the B1 stage, focusing on the primary meaning of sweeping is most beneficial.
Wir müssen den Boden gründlich kehren.
In everyday German conversations, you'll likely encounter 'kehren' when people discuss their cleaning routines, what needs to be done around the house, or when observing someone performing this task. It's a fundamental part of describing domestic activities.
- Everyday Usage
- Used when discussing cleaning floors, patios, or other areas that require sweeping. Often paired with adverbs like 'gründlich' (thoroughly) or 'schnell' (quickly).
Hat jemand den Gehweg gekehrt?
The verb is straightforward in its primary meaning. Think of the physical action of the broom moving dirt. It's a direct verb that clearly communicates the task at hand. Understanding 'kehren' is essential for grasping simple descriptions of household activities in German.
Using 'kehren' correctly in sentences depends on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey. At the B1 level, you'll primarily encounter it in active voice, describing the action of sweeping. The typical sentence structure involves a subject performing the action of 'kehren' on an object, often a floor or an area.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- Subject + Verb (kehren) + Object (what is being swept) + (Optional Adverb/Prepositional Phrase).
Ich kehre den Staub vom Boden.
When talking about past actions, you'll use the perfect tense with 'haben' as the auxiliary verb. The past participle is 'gekehrt'.
- Perfect Tense
- Subject + haben + Object + Past Participle (gekehrt).
Sie hat den Flur gekehrt.
The verb can also be used in imperative form, giving a command to sweep.
- Imperative
- Kehre! (informal singular), Kehrt! (informal plural), Kehren Sie! (formal).
Kehr das bitte auf!
You might also encounter sentences where 'kehren' is used in a more general sense of tidying up a space, not just with a broom, but the primary association remains with sweeping.
Der Hausmeister kehrt den Vorplatz jeden Morgen.
Understanding the conjugation of 'kehren' in different tenses is crucial for constructing grammatically correct and meaningful sentences. Practice forming sentences with various subjects, objects, and tenses to solidify your understanding.
You'll most frequently hear the word 'kehren' in everyday German conversations related to domestic life and maintenance. It's a staple verb for discussing chores and cleaning routines. Imagine walking into a German home or overhearing a conversation between neighbors; the topic of cleaning often arises.
- Household Conversations
- When people talk about what needs to be cleaned in the house, like the kitchen floor, hallway, or living room. For example, a parent might tell their child: 'Du musst dein Zimmer kehren.' (You need to sweep your room.)
Ich muss noch den Keller kehren, bevor die Gäste kommen.
Beyond the home, 'kehren' is also used in public spaces. Think about maintenance workers, janitors, or even volunteers cleaning up parks or streets.
- Public Spaces and Work
- In discussions about cleaning sidewalks, courtyards, or public areas. A building superintendent might say: 'Der Hausmeister kehrt den Hof.' (The janitor sweeps the courtyard.)
Wir müssen die Straße nach dem Fest kehren.
You might also hear it in DIY or home improvement contexts, where instructions for cleaning or preparing an area involve sweeping.
Hast du schon den neuen Besen ausprobiert? Damit kann man viel besser kehren.
In educational materials for German learners, 'kehren' is a common vocabulary item introduced early on, often in lessons about daily routines, household items, and chores. You'll find it in textbooks, language learning apps, and online resources.
While 'kehren' is a relatively straightforward verb, learners can sometimes make mistakes, especially when distinguishing it from similar actions or when conjugating it incorrectly. Understanding these common pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately.
- Confusing with 'Fegen'
- The verb 'fegen' also means to sweep. While often interchangeable, 'fegen' can sometimes imply a more vigorous or thorough sweeping, perhaps with more force, or cleaning a larger area like a street. 'Kehren' is generally the more common and neutral term for everyday sweeping, especially indoors. Learners might use 'fegen' when 'kehren' would be more natural, or vice versa.
Incorrect: Ich fegen den Staub.
Correct: Ich kehre den Staub.
- Incorrect Past Participle
- The past participle of 'kehren' is 'gekehrt'. Learners might mistakenly use the infinitive 'kehren' or an incorrect form like 'gekehrte'. This is common with irregular verbs or verbs whose past participles don't follow a simple pattern.
Incorrect: Sie hat den Boden gekehrte.
Correct: Sie hat den Boden gekehrt.
- Misunderstanding Imperative Forms
- As with many German verbs, the imperative forms can be tricky. For 'kehren', the informal singular imperative is 'kehre', the informal plural is 'kehrt', and the formal is 'kehren Sie'. Learners might use the wrong form for the intended audience or situation.
Incorrect: Kehren das Zimmer!
Correct: Kehr das Zimmer!
Mistake: Er kehrt das Fenster.
Correction: Man reinigt das Fenster. (You clean the window, not sweep it.)
Another potential error is using 'kehren' for actions that aren't sweeping, like cleaning a window. Remember, 'kehren' specifically refers to the action with a broom. For windows, you would use verbs like 'putzen' or 'reinigen'.
While 'kehren' is the primary word for sweeping, German offers other related verbs and phrases that describe cleaning actions. Understanding these distinctions will help you choose the most precise word for the situation.
- Fegen
- Meaning: To sweep.
Comparison: 'Fegen' is very similar to 'kehren' and often used interchangeably, especially for outdoor sweeping or when a more vigorous sweeping is implied. However, 'kehren' is more commonly used for general indoor sweeping. Think of 'fegen' as potentially more forceful or for larger, outdoor areas like streets or patios, whereas 'kehren' is the default for a typical household broom action.
Wir müssen den Gehweg fegen.
Ich kehre den Staub im Wohnzimmer.
- Putzen / Reinigen
- Meaning: To clean / To clean (more general or thorough).
Comparison: These verbs are much broader than 'kehren'. 'Putzen' and 'reinigen' refer to cleaning in general, which can include washing, wiping, scrubbing, or even sweeping. You would 'putzen' or 'reinigen' a window, a car, or a bathroom. You 'kehren' a floor. Sweeping is a specific type of cleaning, and 'kehren' specifies that type.
Ich muss das Fenster putzen.
Ich muss den Boden kehren.
- Wischen
- Meaning: To wipe, to mop.
Comparison: 'Wischen' is the verb for mopping a floor or wiping a surface with a cloth. It's a different cleaning action than sweeping. You typically sweep first to remove loose debris, and then you might mop.
Nach dem Kehren werde ich den Boden wischen.
- Sauber machen
- Meaning: To clean up.
Comparison: This is a general phrase for tidying up or cleaning. It's less specific than 'kehren'. You can 'sauber machen' your room, which might involve sweeping, dusting, and putting things away.
Der Ausdruck 'Kehr die Ecke!' bedeutet, dass man die Ecke mit einem Besen säubert.
The key is to associate 'kehren' with the specific action of using a broom to gather and move dust and debris. While 'fegen' is a close synonym, 'kehren' is the most common and versatile term for this particular chore.
How Formal Is It?
"Die ordnungsgemäße Säuberung der öffentlichen Wege, einschließlich des regelmäßigen Kehrens, obliegt den Anwohnern gemäß Verordnung."
"Der Hausmeister kehrt den Hof jeden Morgen."
"Hey, kannst du mal kurz den Dreck hier kehren?"
"Komm, wir kehren die Blätter wie kleine Helfer!"
Curiosidade
The older meaning of 'kehren' as 'to turn' is still present in many German phrases, such as 'eine Kehrtwende machen' (to make a U-turn) or 'sich umdrehen' (to turn around). This connection highlights the evolution of word meanings over time, where a physical action like turning evolved into the specific cleaning action of sweeping.
Guia de pronúncia
- Pronouncing the 'r' sound too strongly, especially in UK English, where a more guttural uvular 'r' is preferred.
- Shortening the vowel sound 'e'.
- Incorrect stress placement.
Nível de dificuldade
At B1, reading texts will often include 'kehren' in contexts of daily life, household chores, or simple instructions. Understanding the direct meaning is usually sufficient. More complex sentences might appear in B2 texts, involving figurative uses or complex grammatical structures.
Learners at B1 can confidently use 'kehren' in simple declarative sentences and basic past tense constructions. Challenges might arise with more nuanced tenses, passive voice, or idiomatic expressions.
Speaking about household tasks or simple requests involving cleaning is common at B1. Learners should be able to use 'kehren' in basic conversational contexts. Pronunciation of the 'r' sound might be a slight challenge for some.
The word 'kehren' is frequently used in everyday spoken German, especially in contexts related to home and maintenance. Learners at B1 should be able to recognize and understand it in typical scenarios.
O que aprender depois
Pré-requisitos
Aprenda a seguir
Avançado
Gramática essencial
Perfect Tense with 'haben'
Subject + haben + Object + gekehrt. (Example: Ich habe den Boden gekehrt.)
Passive Voice with 'werden'
Object + werden + gekehrt. (Example: Der Hof wird gekehrt.)
Modal Verbs with 'kehren' as Infinitive
Subject + Modal Verb + Object + kehren. (Example: Du musst den Flur kehren.)
Imperative Forms
Kehr das Zimmer! (informal singular), Kehrt die Krümel auf! (informal plural), Kehren Sie den Staub weg! (formal)
Prepositional Phrases with 'kehren'
Ich kehre den Staub vom Boden. (sweeping dust FROM the floor)
Exemplos por nível
Ich kehre den Boden.
I sweep the floor.
Simple present tense, accusative object.
Bitte kehre den Staub.
Please sweep the dust.
Imperative form.
Wir kehren die Straße.
We sweep the street.
Simple present tense.
Der Hund hat Haare gemacht, ich muss kehren.
The dog made hair, I have to sweep.
'müssen' + infinitive.
Hat jemand den Flur gekehrt?
Has anyone swept the hallway?
Perfect tense, question.
Ich kehre das Zimmer.
I sweep the room.
Simple present tense.
Der Besen ist zum kehren.
The broom is for sweeping.
'zum' + infinitive.
Sie kehrt das Laub.
She sweeps the leaves.
Simple present tense.
Der Hausmeister kehrt den Hof jeden Morgen.
The caretaker sweeps the yard every morning.
Present tense with frequency adverb.
Nach dem Essen muss ich die Krümel kehren.
After eating, I have to sweep the crumbs.
'müssen' + infinitive, accusative object.
Bevor die Gäste kommen, muss der Boden gekehrt werden.
Before the guests arrive, the floor must be swept.
Passive voice (werden).
Hast du schon die alte Zeitung gekehrt?
Have you already swept up the old newspaper?
Perfect tense, question.
Er kehrt den Staub unter dem Sofa weg.
He sweeps the dust from under the sofa away.
Separable prefix 'wegkehren'.
Wir haben den Schuppen gekehrt, aber es ist immer noch staubig.
We swept the shed, but it is still dusty.
Perfect tense, contrast clause.
Kannst du bitte das Laub vor dem Haus kehren?
Can you please sweep the leaves in front of the house?
Modal verb 'können', imperative request.
Sie hat beschlossen, den Balkon gründlich zu kehren.
She decided to sweep the balcony thoroughly.
'beschließen' + zu + infinitive.
Ich muss die Garage kehren, weil dort viel Schmutz liegt.
I need to sweep the garage because there is a lot of dirt there.
Causal clause with 'weil'.
Der Reinigungsmann kehrt den Bürgersteig vor dem Geschäft.
The cleaner sweeps the sidewalk in front of the shop.
Present tense, specific profession.
Nachdem wir die Party aufgeräumt hatten, haben wir den Saal gekehrt.
After we had cleaned up the party, we swept the hall.
Temporal clause with 'nachdem' (past perfect and perfect).
Es ist wichtig, den Boden regelmäßig zu kehren, um Staub zu vermeiden.
It is important to sweep the floor regularly to avoid dust.
'wichtig sein' + zu + infinitive, purpose clause with 'um...zu'.
Sie hat die ganze Wohnung gekehrt, bevor sie umgezogen ist.
She swept the entire apartment before she moved out.
Temporal clause with 'bevor'.
Wenn du den Garten umgräbst, musst du auch den Weg kehren.
When you dig up the garden, you also have to sweep the path.
Conditional clause with 'wenn'.
Der Wind hat so viel Laub auf die Terrasse geweht, dass wir es kehren müssen.
The wind blew so much leaves onto the terrace that we have to sweep it.
Consecutive clause with 'dass'.
Er bittet seine Kinder, ihm beim Kehren zu helfen.
He asks his children to help him with sweeping.
'bitten' + zu + infinitive, indirect request.
Angesichts des bevorstehenden Regens war es ratsam, die Terrasse zu kehren und die Möbel hereinzuholen.
Given the impending rain, it was advisable to sweep the terrace and bring the furniture inside.
Participial construction 'Angesichts des bevorstehenden Regens', infinitive clause with 'zu'.
Die Gemeinde hat beschlossen, die alten Kopfsteinpflasterstraßen neu zu kehren und zu versiegeln.
The municipality has decided to re-sweep and seal the old cobblestone streets.
Complex sentence structure, multiple infinitives with 'zu'.
Obwohl er müde war, kehrte er noch einmal die Werkstatt, um sicherzustellen, dass alles sauber war.
Although he was tired, he swept the workshop once more to ensure everything was clean.
Concessive clause with 'obwohl', purpose clause.
Die Erfahrung hat ihm gezeigt, dass man den Boden nicht nur kehren, sondern auch feucht abwischen muss.
Experience has shown him that one must not only sweep the floor but also wipe it damp.
Reported speech structure, correlative conjunction 'nicht nur...sondern auch'.
Seine Aufgabe bestand darin, die Lobbys der Hotels täglich zu kehren und die Teppiche abzusaugen.
His job consisted of sweeping the hotel lobbies daily and vacuuming the carpets.
Nominalized infinitive clause 'seine Aufgabe bestand darin', multiple infinitives with 'zu'.
Man sollte nicht davon ausgehen, dass das Kehren allein ausreicht, um eine vollständige Reinigung zu erzielen.
One should not assume that sweeping alone is sufficient to achieve a complete cleaning.
Nominalized infinitive 'das Kehren', impersonal 'man'.
Die Veranstaltung wurde verschoben, bis die Veranstaltungsfläche vollständig gekehrt und dekoriert war.
The event was postponed until the venue was completely swept and decorated.
Passive voice in a temporal clause.
Er gab Anweisungen, wie der Hof am besten zu kehren sei, um die Falllaub-Entsorgung zu optimieren.
He gave instructions on how the yard should best be swept to optimize fallen leaf disposal.
Indirect question with 'wie', subjunctive 'sei' (Konjunktiv I).
Die architektonische Planung sah vor, dass die Eingangsportale regelmäßig von einem Hausmeister gekehrt würden, um einen repräsentativen Eindruck zu gewährleisten.
The architectural plan stipulated that the entrance portals would be regularly swept by a caretaker to ensure a representative impression.
Subjunctive II (Konjunktiv II) in a subordinate clause indicating a stipulation.
Ungeachtet der fortgeschrittenen Stunde fand er es unerlässlich, den Werkstattboden nochmals zu kehren, bevor er die Arbeit beendete.
Notwithstanding the late hour, he found it essential to sweep the workshop floor once more before he finished work.
Prepositional phrase 'Ungeachtet der fortgeschrittenen Stunde', infinitive clause with 'zu'.
Es obliegt dem Mieter, die gemeinschaftlich genutzten Flure ordnungsgemäß zu kehren und sauber zu halten.
It is incumbent upon the tenant to properly sweep and keep clean the common hallways.
Formal expression 'Es obliegt dem Mieter', infinitive clauses with 'zu'.
Die Umweltschutzorganisation forderte ein Verbot von Besen, die beim Kehren übermäßig viel Staub aufwirbeln.
The environmental protection organization called for a ban on brooms that stir up excessive dust when sweeping.
Subordinate clause with 'die', relative pronoun, nominalized infinitive 'das Kehren'.
Manche sehen im Akt des Kehrens eine fast meditative Tätigkeit, die zur Entschleunigung beiträgt.
Some see the act of sweeping as an almost meditative activity that contributes to deceleration.
Nominalized infinitive 'das Kehren', abstract concepts.
Die Stadtverwaltung erwägt, die Reinigungsintervalle für öffentliche Plätze zu erhöhen, was auch das häufigere Kehren einschließen würde.
The city administration is considering increasing the cleaning intervals for public spaces, which would also include more frequent sweeping.
Subordinate clause with 'was', conditional mood 'würde'.
Der historische Kontext des Begriffs 'Kehrwoche' in bestimmten Regionen ist eng mit der gemeinschaftlichen Verantwortung für Sauberkeit verbunden.
The historical context of the term 'Kehrwoche' (sweeping week) in certain regions is closely linked to the communal responsibility for cleanliness.
Complex sentence with historical context.
Die ästhetische Aufwertung des Innenhofs erforderte nicht nur das Entfernen von Unrat, sondern auch ein akribisches Kehren der Pflastersteine.
The aesthetic enhancement of the courtyard required not only the removal of debris but also meticulous sweeping of the paving stones.
Nominalized infinitive 'das Kehren', parallel structure.
Die Debatte über die Zuständigkeit für die Reinigung öffentlicher Wege eskalierte, wobei die einen auf das obligatorische Kehren durch Anwohner pochten, während andere eine städtische Kehrmaschine forderten.
The debate over responsibility for cleaning public pathways escalated, with some insisting on obligatory sweeping by residents, while others demanded a municipal sweeping machine.
Complex sentence with contrasting subordinate clauses and sophisticated vocabulary.
Die metaphorische Bedeutung von 'kehren' im Sinne einer radikalen Umwälzung oder Neuausrichtung ist in der politischen Rhetorik zwar präsent, doch die primäre Konnotation bleibt die physische Säuberung.
The metaphorical meaning of 'kehren' in the sense of a radical upheaval or reorientation is present in political rhetoric, yet the primary connotation remains physical cleaning.
Abstract vocabulary, discussion of literal vs. metaphorical meaning.
Die Effizienz von Kehrmaschinen, die für die Säuberung von Autobahnen konzipiert sind, steht im krassen Gegensatz zur handwerklichen Sorgfalt, die beim manuellen Kehren von historischen Plätzen geboten ist.
The efficiency of sweeping machines designed for cleaning highways stands in stark contrast to the manual care required for the manual sweeping of historical squares.
Comparative sentence, nuanced vocabulary.
Die kulturelle Praxis des 'Kehrens' als ritueller Akt der Reinigung vor bestimmten Zeremonien ist in einigen ländlichen Gemeinden noch immer von Bedeutung.
The cultural practice of 'sweeping' as a ritual act of purification before certain ceremonies is still of significance in some rural communities.
Cultural context, specific terminology.
Die Verordnung sah vor, dass jeder Grundstückseigentümer den an sein Grundstück grenzenden Gehweg in einem Umkreis von zwei Metern zu kehren hatte, widrigenfalls eine Geldbuße drohte.
The ordinance stipulated that every property owner had to sweep the sidewalk bordering his property within a radius of two meters, otherwise a fine threatened.
Legalistic language, past subjunctive 'hatte', conditional consequence.
Die analytische Betrachtung des Begriffs 'Kehren' offenbart seine Wurzeln in der Notwendigkeit, Ordnung und Sauberkeit zu etablieren, was eine universelle menschliche Anforderung darstellt.
The analytical examination of the term 'Kehren' reveals its roots in the necessity to establish order and cleanliness, which represents a universal human requirement.
Philosophical and analytical tone, abstract concepts.
Die ökonomische Perspektive auf die Tätigkeit des Kehrens berücksichtigt nicht nur die direkte Arbeitszeit, sondern auch die indirekten Kosten für Werkzeuge und deren Instandhaltung.
The economic perspective on the activity of sweeping considers not only the direct working time but also the indirect costs for tools and their maintenance.
Economic terminology, formal register.
In der Poesie kann das 'Kehren' als Metapher für die Reinigung der Seele oder das Loswerden alter Lasten interpretiert werden, was eine tiefere symbolische Ebene eröffnet.
In poetry, 'sweeping' can be interpreted as a metaphor for the cleansing of the soul or the shedding of old burdens, which opens up a deeper symbolic level.
Literary analysis, metaphorical interpretation.
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
Ich muss kehren.
Kannst du bitte kehren?
Er/Sie hat gekehrt.
Wir müssen den Boden kehren.
Das Laub wird gekehrt.
Zum Kehren braucht man einen Besen.
Sie kehrte den Staub weg.
Den Eingangsbereich kehren.
Es ist Zeit zu kehren.
Hat jemand gekehrt?
Frequentemente confundido com
'Fegen' is a close synonym for 'kehren' and also means 'to sweep'. While often interchangeable, 'fegen' can sometimes imply a more vigorous or outdoor sweeping action, whereas 'kehren' is the more common and neutral term for everyday indoor sweeping.
'Wischen' means 'to mop' or 'to wipe'. It's a different cleaning action from sweeping. You typically sweep (kehren) first, then mop (wischen).
These are general terms for 'to clean'. 'Kehren' is a specific type of cleaning, while 'putzen' and 'reinigen' can encompass many different cleaning actions.
Expressões idiomáticas
"Eine Kehrtwende machen"
To make a U-turn; to change one's mind or direction completely. This idiom uses 'kehren' in a figurative sense of turning around.
Nachdem er die negativen Reaktionen gesehen hatte, machte der Politiker eine Kehrtwende in seiner Haltung.
Figurative, common"Sich um seine Angelegenheiten kehren"
To attend to one's own affairs; to mind one's own business. This implies focusing inward or on one's responsibilities.
Anstatt sich in die Probleme anderer einzumischen, sollte er sich lieber um seine eigenen Angelegenheiten kehren.
Figurative, slightly formal"Das Herz kehrt sich um"
One's heart is turned around (by something); to be deeply moved or affected emotionally.
Als er die Geschichte des Jungen hörte, kehrte sich sein Herz um vor Mitleid.
Figurative, poetic"Jemandes Gedanken kehren zurück"
Someone's thoughts return (to a place or memory); to reminisce or think back.
In stillen Nächten kehren seine Gedanken oft zu seiner Kindheit zurück.
Figurative, literary"Sich nach etwas kehren"
To turn towards something; to orient oneself towards something. Similar to 'sich wenden nach'.
Die ganze Familie kehrte sich nach dem Erfolg des Sohnes dem Fest zu.
Figurative, less common"Die Zeit kehrt wieder"
Time returns; a period of time comes back again. Often used in a nostalgic sense.
Wenn die ersten Schneeglöckchen blühen, kehrt die Zeit des Frühlings wieder.
Figurative, poetic"Die Welt kehrt sich weiter"
The world keeps turning; life goes on despite personal events.
Auch nach dem Verlust seines Jobs musste er erkennen, dass sich die Welt weiter dreht.
Figurative, philosophical"Den Kopf kehren"
To turn one's head. A literal use, but can be part of idiomatic expressions.
Er kehrte den Kopf, um zu sehen, wer hinter ihm stand.
Literal"Kehren unter den Teppich"
To sweep under the rug; to hide or ignore problems.
Man kann die Probleme nicht einfach unter den Teppich kehren.
Figurative, common"Sich zu etwas kehren"
To turn one's attention to something; to devote oneself to something.
Er beschloss, sich von nun an mehr der Kunst zu kehren.
Figurative, formalFácil de confundir
Both 'kehren' and 'fegen' mean 'to sweep'.
'Kehren' is the more general and common term for sweeping indoors with a broom. 'Fegen' is often used for sweeping outdoors, like sidewalks or patios, or when a more forceful sweeping action is implied. In many contexts, they are interchangeable, but 'kehren' is typically the default for household sweeping.
Ich muss den Staub in der Küche <strong>kehren</strong>. (I have to sweep the dust in the kitchen.) / Wir müssen den Gehweg von Laub <strong>fegen</strong>. (We have to sweep the sidewalk clear of leaves.)
Both are cleaning verbs related to floors.
'Kehren' means to sweep with a broom, removing dry debris. 'Wischen' means to mop or wipe, usually with a wet cloth or mop, to clean a surface after sweeping or to remove stains and dirt that sweeping cannot handle. They are sequential actions: first, you kehren, then you wischen.
Nachdem ich den Boden <strong>gekehrt</strong> habe, werde ich ihn <strong>wischen</strong>. (After I have swept the floor, I will mop it.)
Both are verbs related to cleaning.
'Kehren' is a specific action of sweeping with a broom. 'Putzen' is a broader term for cleaning, which can include sweeping, but also washing, scrubbing, dusting, etc. You 'kehren' a floor, but you 'putzen' a window or a bathroom.
Ich <strong>kehre</strong> den Staub vom Boden. (I sweep the dust from the floor.) / Ich <strong>putze</strong> die Fenster. (I clean the windows.)
Both relate to making something clean.
'Reinigen' is a more formal and general term for cleaning than 'putzen'. It can encompass sweeping, but also more intensive cleaning processes. 'Kehren' is the specific action of sweeping. You would 'reinigen' a room, which might involve 'kehren' as one step.
Der Hausmeister muss das Gebäude täglich <strong>reinigen</strong>, was auch das <strong>Kehren</strong> der Gänge beinhaltet. (The janitor must clean the building daily, which also includes sweeping the corridors.)
Both can be part of tidying up a space.
'Aufräumen' means to tidy up or put things in order. It's a general term for making a space neat. 'Kehren' is a specific action of sweeping to remove dirt and dust. You might 'aufräumen' your room by tidying up toys and then 'kehren' the floor.
Bevor wir die Wohnung <strong>aufräumen</strong>, müssen wir erst den Boden <strong>kehren</strong>. (Before we tidy up the apartment, we first have to sweep the floor.)
Padrões de frases
Subject + kehren + Object
Ich kehre den Boden.
Bitte + kehre/kehrt/kehren Sie + Object!
Bitte kehre den Staub!
Subject + haben + Object + gekehrt.
Wir haben den Flur gekehrt.
Subject + müssen + Object + kehren.
Der Hausmeister muss den Hof kehren.
Subject + kehren + Object + weil + Clause.
Ich kehre den Keller, weil er sehr schmutzig ist.
Es ist wichtig, + Object + zu kehren.
Es ist wichtig, den Boden regelmäßig zu kehren.
Obwohl + Clause, Subject + kehrt + Object.
Obwohl es regnete, kehrte er den Gehweg.
Subject + hat + Object + gekehrt, bevor + Clause.
Sie hat die Werkstatt gekehrt, bevor sie nach Hause ging.
Família de palavras
Substantivos
Verbos
Relacionado
Como usar
High (common in everyday spoken and written German)
-
Using 'kehren' for cleaning windows.
→
Man benutzt 'putzen' oder 'reinigen' für Fenster.
'Kehren' specifically means to sweep with a broom. For cleaning windows, you need different verbs like 'putzen' or 'reinigen'. Sweeping a window doesn't make sense.
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Incorrect past participle: 'Ich habe den Boden gekehrte.'
→
Ich habe den Boden gekehrt.
The past participle of 'kehren' is 'gekehrt'. Learners often make errors with past participles, especially for irregular verbs. Always use 'gekehrt' in the perfect tense.
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Confusing 'kehren' and 'wischen'.
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Erst kehren, dann wischen. (First sweep, then mop.)
'Kehren' is sweeping dry debris with a broom. 'Wischen' is mopping or wiping with a wet cloth. You usually sweep before you mop.
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Using 'fegen' when 'kehren' is more appropriate indoors.
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Ich kehre den Staub in der Küche. (Not 'fegen')
While 'fegen' also means to sweep, 'kehren' is the more common and neutral term for general indoor sweeping. 'Fegen' is often reserved for outdoor areas or more vigorous sweeping.
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Incorrect imperative form: 'Kehren das Zimmer!'
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Kehr das Zimmer! (informal singular)
The informal singular imperative of 'kehren' is 'kehre'. Using the infinitive form is incorrect. Remember the different forms: 'kehre' (du), 'kehrt' (ihr), 'kehren Sie' (Sie).
Dicas
Distinguish from 'Fegen'
While 'kehren' and 'fegen' both mean 'to sweep', remember that 'kehren' is more commonly used for general indoor sweeping with a broom, whereas 'fegen' might imply outdoor sweeping or a more vigorous action. When in doubt for indoor cleaning, 'kehren' is a safe choice.
Master the Past Participle
The past participle of 'kehren' is 'gekehrt'. Ensure you use this form correctly when constructing sentences in the perfect tense (e.g., 'Ich habe den Boden gekehrt').
Learn Related Nouns
To enhance your understanding, learn related nouns like 'der Besen' (broom), 'der Staub' (dust), and 'das Kehrblech' (dustpan). This will help you visualize the action and use the word more effectively in context.
Focus on the 'R' Sound
Practice the German 'r' sound, which is often a uvular fricative (produced in the back of the throat). Listen to native speakers and try to imitate it for more natural pronunciation of 'kehren'.
Think of Household Chores
Associate 'kehren' with common household tasks. When you think about cleaning the floor or tidying up after a mess, 'kehren' should come to mind as the verb for sweeping.
Explore Figurative Meanings
Beyond physical sweeping, 'kehren' has figurative meanings, like in 'eine Kehrtwende machen' (to make a U-turn). Learning these idioms will enrich your understanding and usage of the word.
Use in Sentences
Actively try to form sentences using 'kehren' in different tenses and contexts. The more you practice, the more natural it will become to use this verb.
Contrast with 'Wischen'
Clearly differentiate 'kehren' (sweeping) from 'wischen' (mopping/wiping). Remember that sweeping is usually done before mopping.
Understand 'Kehrwoche'
In some German apartment buildings, residents share cleaning duties during a 'Kehrwoche' (sweeping week). Understanding this cultural practice provides context for the importance of 'kehren' in shared living spaces.
Learn Compound Words
Explore compound words like 'Kehrmaschine' (sweeping machine) or 'Kehrblech' (dustpan). These words reinforce the core meaning of 'kehren' and expand your vocabulary.
Memorize
Mnemônico
Imagine a broom 'turning' the dust around on the floor. The 'turning' aspect links back to the older meaning of 'kehren'. So, 'kehren' is like 'turning' the dirt away with a broom.
Associação visual
Picture a person vigorously sweeping a floor with a broom, making circular or turning motions to gather dust. Visualize the dust being 'turned' into a pile.
Word Web
Desafio
Try to use 'kehren' in at least three sentences describing your daily cleaning routine or tasks you need to do around the house. For example: 'I need to kehren the kitchen floor.' or 'After playing outside, we kehren the entryway.'
Origem da palavra
The German word 'kehren' originates from the Old High German word 'kēran', which meant 'to turn' or 'to move'. This connection to 'turning' is evident in related words and idioms like 'Kehrtwende' (U-turn). The sense of sweeping likely developed from the idea of turning or moving something aside.
Significado original: To turn, to move, to change direction.
GermanicContexto cultural
The act of sweeping is a common, everyday task and generally not a sensitive topic. However, in contexts where hygiene is paramount or related to health issues, the importance of thorough sweeping might be emphasized.
While English has 'sweep', the German concept of 'Kehrwoche' for shared cleaning duties in apartment buildings is a more specific cultural practice.
Pratique na vida real
Contextos reais
Household chores and cleaning
- Ich muss den Boden kehren.
- Bitte kehre das Zimmer.
- Wir kehren jeden Samstag.
Maintenance of public spaces (streets, yards)
- Der Hausmeister kehrt den Hof.
- Wir kehren den Gehweg.
- Das Laub muss gekehrt werden.
Instructions or requests
- Kannst du bitte kehren?
- Kehr das hier auf!
- Es ist Zeit zu kehren.
Describing past actions
- Ich habe den Keller gekehrt.
- Sie hat die Garage gekehrt.
- Wir haben den Bürgersteig gekehrt.
Seasonal cleaning (e.g., autumn leaves)
- Wir kehren die Herbstblätter.
- Der Wind hat viel Laub auf die Terrasse geweht, wir müssen es kehren.
- Das Kehren des Laubes ist eine wichtige Aufgabe im Herbst.
Iniciadores de conversa
"Was sind deine liebsten Haushaltsarbeiten? Musst du oft kehren?"
"Wie oft kehrst du deine Wohnung oder dein Haus?"
"Hast du einen besonderen Besen, mit dem du gerne kehrst?"
"Welche Räume in deinem Haus müssen am häufigsten gekehrt werden?"
"Gibt es in deiner Stadt oder Gemeinde spezielle Regeln, wann man den Gehweg kehren muss?"
Temas para diário
Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du eine große Fläche kehren musstest. Wie hast du dich dabei gefühlt?
Stell dir vor, du bekommst einen neuen, super-effizienten Besen. Was würdest du zuerst kehren und warum?
Denke an deine Kindheit. Gab es eine Aufgabe, bei der du helfen musstest, wie zum Beispiel kehren? Erzähle davon.
Wie wichtig ist es dir persönlich, dass die Böden in deinem Zuhause sauber und gekehrt sind? Begründe deine Antwort.
Wenn 'kehren' auch eine metaphorische Bedeutung hätte, wie würdest du sie für dein eigenes Leben anwenden? Was würdest du 'kehren' wollen?
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasBoth 'kehren' and 'fegen' mean to sweep. 'Kehren' is the more common and general term for sweeping indoors with a broom. 'Fegen' is often used for sweeping outdoors (like sidewalks or yards) or when a more vigorous sweeping action is implied. For everyday household sweeping, 'kehren' is usually the preferred word.
The past participle of 'kehren' is 'gekehrt'. So, in the perfect tense, you would say 'Ich habe den Boden gekehrt' (I have swept the floor).
No, 'kehren' specifically refers to sweeping with a broom. For cleaning windows, you would use verbs like 'putzen' or 'reinigen'.
'Eine Kehrtwende machen' is an idiom that literally means 'to make a U-turn'. Figuratively, it means to completely change one's mind, opinion, or course of action. It uses the older meaning of 'kehren' as 'to turn'.
'Kehren' is used for sweeping dry debris like dust, dirt, or crumbs with a broom. 'Wischen' is used for mopping or wiping a floor, usually with a wet cloth or mop, to clean it after sweeping or to remove stains.
The base verb 'kehren' is not a separable verb. However, prefixed versions like 'wegkehren' (to sweep away) or 'umkehren' (to turn back) can be separable depending on the prefix and context.
Common objects that are 'gekehrt' include 'der Boden' (the floor), 'der Hof' (the yard), 'der Gehweg' (the sidewalk), 'der Flur' (the hallway), 'der Staub' (the dust), and 'das Laub' (the leaves).
You can say 'Kehr es auf!' (informal singular), 'Kehrt es auf!' (informal plural), or 'Kehren Sie es auf!' (formal). The verb 'aufkehren' is a separable verb meaning 'to sweep up'.
While 'kehren' is a common verb, its use in highly formal contexts might be limited to descriptions of specific duties, like in regulations or official job descriptions. For general formal cleaning, 'reinigen' or 'säubern' might be more appropriate.
'Ein Kehrblech' is a dustpan, which is used in conjunction with a broom ('Besen') when sweeping ('kehren') to collect the swept debris.
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Summary
The German verb 'kehren' means to sweep, specifically the action of using a broom to clean floors, paths, or other surfaces. It's a fundamental verb for describing household chores and maintenance.
- Kehren: To sweep with a broom.
- Common household chore verb.
- Past participle: gekehrt.
- Used for floors, yards, and paths.
Distinguish from 'Fegen'
While 'kehren' and 'fegen' both mean 'to sweep', remember that 'kehren' is more commonly used for general indoor sweeping with a broom, whereas 'fegen' might imply outdoor sweeping or a more vigorous action. When in doubt for indoor cleaning, 'kehren' is a safe choice.
Master the Past Participle
The past participle of 'kehren' is 'gekehrt'. Ensure you use this form correctly when constructing sentences in the perfect tense (e.g., 'Ich habe den Boden gekehrt').
Learn Related Nouns
To enhance your understanding, learn related nouns like 'der Besen' (broom), 'der Staub' (dust), and 'das Kehrblech' (dustpan). This will help you visualize the action and use the word more effectively in context.
Focus on the 'R' Sound
Practice the German 'r' sound, which is often a uvular fricative (produced in the back of the throat). Listen to native speakers and try to imitate it for more natural pronunciation of 'kehren'.
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