At the A1 level, the word 'Zitat' is a bit advanced, but you might see it in simple contexts like a classroom or a textbook. Think of it as 'a sentence from a book'. You should know that it is 'das Zitat' (neuter). You might learn it when talking about your favorite books or movies. For example, 'Mein Lieblingszitat ist...' (My favorite quote is...). At this stage, don't worry about complex grammar. Just remember that it refers to words someone else said or wrote. You might see it on posters in your German school. It is a noun, so it always starts with a capital letter. If you have many quotes, they are 'die Zitate'. It is a useful word to know if you want to share a cool line from a German song you like. Just remember: 'das Zitat'.
At the A2 level, you can start using 'Zitat' to describe things you read in German newspapers or books. You should be able to form simple sentences like 'Das Zitat ist sehr schön' or 'Ich kenne dieses Zitat'. You will also encounter the verb 'zitieren' (to quote). For example, 'Der Lehrer zitiert aus dem Buch.' You should be aware that 'Zitat' is a neuter noun. This means you use 'ein' and 'das'. In the plural, it is 'die Zitate'. You might also start seeing compound words like 'Filmzitat' (movie quote). If you are writing a small text about a famous person, you can mention a 'Zitat' by them. It helps make your German sound more interesting and authentic. Remember to use the correct quotation marks: „ “.
At the B1 level, 'Zitat' becomes an essential word for expressing opinions and discussing texts. You are expected to use it in your writing, especially when you are summarizing an article or a story. You should know how to introduce a quote using phrases like 'Ein bekanntes Zitat besagt...' or 'Wie wir in diesem Zitat sehen...'. You should also be comfortable with the genitive case: 'das Zitat des Autors'. At this level, you should distinguish between a 'Zitat' (verbatim) and a 'Paraphrase' (own words). You will also hear the word in news reports when journalists quote politicians. It is important to pay attention to the source ('die Quelle') of the Zitat. You might also use it in your speaking exams to support your arguments: 'Ich möchte hier ein Zitat anführen...'
At the B2 level, you should have a deep understanding of how 'Zitat' functions in academic and professional German. You will learn about 'Zitierregeln' (citation rules) and how to avoid 'Plagiate' (plagiarism). You should be able to analyze a 'Zitat' in detail, discussing its tone, its context, and its impact on the reader. You will encounter more complex verbs like 'anführen', 'wiedergeben', or 'einbetten' in relation to quotes. You should also be able to recognize when a 'Zitat' is being used ironically or out of context. In discussions, you might say, 'Dieses Zitat ist heute noch hochaktuell' (This quote is still highly relevant today). You should also be familiar with related terms like 'Sinngemäßes Zitat' (indirect quote) and how to format them correctly in a formal essay.
At the C1 level, your use of 'Zitat' should be sophisticated and precise. You will use quotes to build complex arguments in academic papers and professional reports. You should be familiar with the legal aspects of quoting, such as 'Zitierrecht'. You will also explore the nuances between 'Zitat', 'Ausspruch', 'Aphorismus', and 'Fragment'. You should be able to critique the use of quotes in media, recognizing when they are used as 'Totschlagargumente' (knockout arguments) or to manipulate public opinion. Your vocabulary should include terms like 'Zitierweise', 'Vollzitat', and 'Kurzzitat'. You will also be expected to understand and use quotes from classical German literature (Goethe, Schiller) to illustrate cultural points. Mastery of the subjunctive I (Konjunktiv I) for indirect speech is also crucial when you are not quoting verbatim.
At the C2 level, you handle 'Zitate' with the ease of a native speaker or scholar. You understand the intertextual relationships that quotes create between different works of literature and philosophy. You can engage in high-level debates about the ethics of citation and the 'death of the author' in relation to quoted material. You are comfortable with archaic or highly specialized quotes and can translate their nuance into modern German. You might use 'Zitate' as a stylistic device in your own creative or academic writing to evoke specific historical periods or intellectual traditions. You understand the subtleties of 'Zitierfähigkeit' (the suitability of a source to be quoted) and can navigate the most complex citation styles (APA, MLA, Harvard) in a German context without any errors.

Zitat em 30 segundos

  • Zitat is a neuter German noun meaning 'quotation' or 'citation', used when repeating someone else's words exactly.
  • It is essential in academic, journalistic, and legal contexts in Germany to ensure accuracy and proper attribution of sources.
  • The word is commonly found in phrases like 'Lieblingszitat' (favorite quote) or 'Filmzitat' (movie quote) and follows specific grammar rules.
  • Correct usage involves using the article 'das' and the plural 'die Zitate', along with specific German quotation marks („ “).
The German word Zitat refers to a quotation—a verbatim repetition of someone else's words, whether written or spoken. In the German language, this term carries significant weight in both academic and everyday contexts. When you use a Zitat, you are essentially borrowing the authority or the specific phrasing of another person to support your own argument, provide inspiration, or simply share a memorable thought. Understanding the nuance of this word involves recognizing that it is not just any sentence, but one that is specifically attributed to a source. In academic writing, a Zitat must be meticulously documented to avoid plagiarism, a concept known in German as 'Plagiat'.
Literary Context
In literature, authors often use a Zitat at the beginning of a chapter (an epigraph) to set the tone or theme for the following pages. This is a common stylistic device in German classics and modern novels alike.
Beyond the classroom, 'Zitat' is frequently heard in the media. News anchors might say, 'Ich zitiere den Minister...' (I am quoting the minister...) to ensure they are accurately representing a political stance. This level of precision is a hallmark of formal German communication.

Ein berühmtes Zitat von Goethe lautet: 'Auch aus Steinen, die einem in den Weg gelegt werden, kann man Schönes bauen.'

This example illustrates how the word is used to introduce a well-known proverb or aphorism. The term is also ubiquitous in the digital age. Social media platforms are filled with 'Inspirations-Zitate' (inspirational quotes) accompanied by scenic backgrounds. These are designed to evoke emotion and provide motivation. Culturally, Germans place a high value on intellectual property and accuracy. Therefore, using a Zitat correctly—including the proper grammatical gender (das Zitat)—is essential for being taken seriously in professional environments. The plural form is 'die Zitate'. You might hear someone say, 'Seine Rede war voller Zitate,' meaning his speech was full of quotes. This can be either a compliment on his erudition or a criticism of his lack of original thought.
Legal and Journalistic Use
In German law, the 'Zitierrecht' (right to quote) defines how much of a copyrighted work can be used without permission, emphasizing the term's importance in legal frameworks.

Ohne ein passendes Zitat wirkt die wissenschaftliche Arbeit oft unvollständig und wenig überzeugend.

Das Zitat wurde aus dem Zusammenhang gerissen, was die Bedeutung völlig veränderte.

Social Context
In casual conversation, Germans might use 'Zitat' to mock someone by repeating their words back to them with a specific tone, though this is less common than its formal use.

Kannst du mir ein schönes Zitat für meine Glückwunschkarte empfehlen?

In der Prüfung mussten wir das Zitat analysieren und interpretieren.

To summarize, 'Zitat' is a versatile and essential noun for anyone navigating German academic, professional, or social spheres. It represents the bridge between individual thought and the collective wisdom of history and literature.
Using the word Zitat correctly requires attention to its grammatical gender and its role as a neuter noun. Since it is 'das Zitat', all accompanying adjectives and articles must reflect this. For instance, you would say 'ein kurzes Zitat' (a short quote) or 'dieses Zitat' (this quote). In the dative case, it becomes 'dem Zitat', and in the genitive, 'des Zitats' or 'des Zitates'.
Subject and Object Roles
When 'Zitat' is the subject, it often takes verbs like 'stammen' (to originate) or 'belegen' (to prove). For example: 'Das Zitat stammt aus dem 19. Jahrhundert.' When it is the direct object, we often use 'einbauen' (to incorporate) or 'anführen' (to cite).
One of the most common ways to introduce a quote is with the phrase 'Wie das Zitat sagt...' or 'Laut diesem Zitat...'. These structures are essential for essay writing. If you are discussing a specific person's words, you would use the genitive: 'Das Zitat Einsteins' or the prepositional phrase 'Das Zitat von Einstein'.

Ich habe ein passendes Zitat für den Anfang meiner Präsentation gefunden.

In more complex sentences, you might need to describe the quality of the quote. Words like 'treffend' (apt), 'bekannt' (well-known), or 'falsch' (misquoted/false) are frequent companions. 'Ein treffendes Zitat kann die gesamte Argumentation untermauern.' (An apt quote can underpin the entire argument.) The verb 'zitieren' is also vital. It is a regular weak verb. 'Er zitiert gerne aus der Bibel.' (He likes to quote from the Bible.) Note that you quote 'aus' (from) a source.
Combining Nouns
German is famous for compound nouns. You will often see 'Filmzitat' (movie quote), 'Lieblingszitat' (favorite quote), or 'Wandzitat' (a quote on a wall). These follow the gender of the last word, which is 'das Zitat'.

Das Zitat ist leider unvollständig abgedruckt worden.

Bitte nennen Sie die Quelle für jedes Zitat in Ihrem Aufsatz.

Punctuation Rules
When writing a Zitat, German uses different quotation marks than English. The opening mark is at the bottom („) and the closing mark is at the top (“). For example: „Dies ist ein Zitat.“

Dieses Zitat wird oft fälschlicherweise Mark Twain zugeschrieben.

Ein kurzes Zitat kann manchmal mehr sagen als tausend Worte.

By mastering these sentence structures, you will be able to integrate German wisdom into your own speech and writing seamlessly. Whether you are citing a philosopher or a pop star, the word 'Zitat' is your tool for attribution.
The word Zitat is a staple of the German linguistic landscape, echoing through lecture halls, newsrooms, and even casual living rooms. If you are a student in Germany, 'Zitat' will be one of the most frequent words you encounter. Professors will demand 'korrekte Zitate' in your term papers, and during seminars, students often debate the meaning of a specific 'Zitat' from a text.
Academic Environments
At the university, you will hear phrases like 'Das wörtliche Zitat' (the literal quote) versus 'Das sinngemäße Zitat' (the indirect quote/paraphrase). The library is the place where 'Zitate' are hunted and verified.
In the realm of politics, the German media is obsessed with 'Zitate'. A politician might be 'mit einem Zitat konfrontiert' (confronted with a quote) from their past. Talk shows like 'Anne Will' or 'Maybrit Illner' frequently use 'Einspieler' (clips) or text overlays to show a 'Zitat' and then ask their guests to comment on it. This makes 'Zitat' a key term for understanding political discourse in Germany.

Der Journalist prüfte das Zitat mehrmals auf seine Richtigkeit.

Beyond the serious stuff, 'Zitat' appears in pop culture. Fans of movies often trade 'Filmzitate'. If you go to a 'Kneipe' (pub) with German friends, someone might drop a famous line from a movie like 'Der Schuh des Manitu' and someone else will laugh, recognizing the 'Zitat'. Similarly, in the world of music, rappers often 'zitiere' (quote) other artists as a sign of respect or to initiate a 'Diss'. In the legal system, 'Zitate' are the building blocks of a case. Lawyers 'zitieren' previous court rulings ('Urteile') to argue their position. This makes the word essential for anyone dealing with German bureaucracy or law. Even in religious settings, a 'Bibelzitat' (Bible quote) is a common part of a sermon.
Everyday Social Media
If you follow German influencers on Instagram, you will see 'Zitate des Tages' (quotes of the day). These are often about 'Achtsamkeit' (mindfulness) or 'Erfolg' (success).

Auf Pinterest gibt es Tausende von ästhetischen Bildern mit Zitaten.

Das Zitat aus der gestrigen Zeitung hat für viel Aufsehen gesorgt.

In the Office
During meetings, a manager might use a 'Zitat' from a customer feedback form to highlight a point. 'Hier ist ein direktes Zitat eines Kunden...' (Here is a direct quote from a customer...).

Das Zitat wurde als Motto für die Konferenz gewählt.

Können Sie mir das Zitat noch einmal langsam vorlesen?

Whether you are reading a high-brow newspaper like 'Die Zeit' or scrolling through TikTok, the 'Zitat' is everywhere, serving as a linguistic anchor that connects current conversations to past wisdom.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using Zitat is confusing it with the word 'Spruch'. While both can be translated as 'saying' or 'quote' in some contexts, they are not interchangeable. A 'Zitat' is a specific, attributed repetition of words. A 'Spruch' is more of a proverb, a slogan, or even a 'cheesy' line. If you say 'Das ist ein schönes Zitat', it implies you know who said it. If you say 'Das ist ein schöner Spruch', it's more about the sentiment itself.
Gender Confusion
Many learners mistakenly treat 'Zitat' as masculine because many nouns ending in '-at' (like 'der Apparat' or 'der Soldat') are masculine. However, 'das Zitat' is neuter. Saying 'der Zitat' is a common error that marks you as a beginner.
Another pitfall involves the plural form. Learners often try to pluralize it as 'Zitaten' in the nominative case. The correct nominative plural is 'die Zitate'. 'Zitaten' is only used in the dative plural: 'mit den Zitaten'.

Falsch: Ich mag diesen Zitat. Richtig: Ich mag dieses Zitat.

In writing, learners often forget that German quotation marks are different. Using English-style marks (" ") in a German essay is technically a mistake, though often tolerated in informal contexts. In formal German, you must use the 'low-high' style: „ “. There is also the mistake of 'over-attributing'. In English, we might say 'The quote from the book says...', but in German, it is more natural to say 'Das Zitat im Buch lautet...' or 'Wie es im Buch heißt...'. Using 'sagt' (says) for a 'Zitat' is common in spoken German but often discouraged in high-level academic writing, where 'lautet' (is/reads) or 'besagt' (states) is preferred.
Confusion with 'Aussage'
'Aussage' means 'statement' or 'testimony'. While a 'Zitat' can be an 'Aussage', an 'Aussage' is not necessarily a 'Zitat'. Use 'Zitat' only when you are repeating words verbatim.

Falsch: Das Zitat von ihm war gelogen. Richtig: Seine Aussage war gelogen (unless you are specifically referring to a quoted text).

Verwechseln Sie nicht 'Zitat' mit 'Zutat' (ingredient)! Ein Zitat in der Suppe schmeckt nicht gut.

Contextual Misuse
Using 'Zitat' for a paraphrase. If you are summarizing what someone said in your own words, it is no longer a 'Zitat'; it is an 'indirekte Rede' (indirect speech).

Das war kein direktes Zitat, sondern nur eine Zusammenfassung.

Achten Sie darauf, das Zitat nicht aus dem Kontext zu reißen.

Avoiding these common mistakes will make your German sound much more natural and precise, especially in academic and professional settings where the distinction between 'Zitat', 'Spruch', and 'Aussage' is vital.
To enrich your German vocabulary, it's helpful to know words that are similar to Zitat but carry different shades of meaning. The most common alternative is 'Auszug' (excerpt). While a 'Zitat' is usually a short sentence or two, an 'Auszug' refers to a longer passage taken from a text. If you are reading a chapter of a book in class, it's an 'Auszug', not a 'Zitat'.
Zitat vs. Ausspruch
An 'Ausspruch' is a 'dictum' or a 'remark'. It is often used for famous historical sayings that might not be written down in a specific book but are attributed to a person. 'Ein berühmter Ausspruch von Cäsar...' sounds slightly more elevated and historical than 'Ein Zitat von Cäsar'.
Another related word is 'Beleg' (proof/evidence). In academic writing, a 'Zitat' often serves as a 'Beleg' for your thesis. You might hear: 'Haben Sie einen Beleg für diese Behauptung?' (Do you have evidence for this claim?), to which you might reply by providing a 'Zitat'.

Dieser Ausspruch wird oft zitiert, ist aber eigentlich kein direktes Zitat.

Then there is 'Motto'. A 'Motto' is a 'Zitat' that has been chosen to represent the core values of a person, an event, or an organization. While every 'Motto' is often a 'Zitat', not every 'Zitat' is a 'Motto'. In the context of slogans, you might use 'Leitspruch' or 'Wahlspruch'. These are more formal than 'Spruch' and are often used in heraldry or corporate branding. For example, a university might have a Latin 'Leitspruch' that people often 'zitieren'.
Zitat vs. Parole
A 'Parole' is a slogan or a battle cry, often used in political protests. While you can quote a 'Parole', the word itself implies action and collective movement, whereas 'Zitat' implies a static text.

Der Redner nutzte das Zitat als wirkungsvolle Parole für seine Kampagne.

Ein Auszug aus dem Roman wurde als Zitat in der Rezension verwendet.

Distinction from 'Phrase'
A 'Phrase' in German often has a negative connotation, implying an empty or clichéd expression (like 'Phrasendrescherei'). A 'Zitat' is generally viewed more neutrally or positively.

Statt eigener Ideen lieferte er nur leere Phrasen und bekannte Zitate.

Das Zitat dient hier als Beleg für die Theorie des Autors.

Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the exact right word for your context, whether you are writing a PhD thesis, a blog post, or a birthday card. German precision relies on these subtle differences between 'Zitat', 'Ausspruch', 'Auszug', and 'Spruch'.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The legal origin of the word is still visible in the German verb 'vorladen' (to summons), which used to be synonymous with 'zitieren' in legal contexts.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /t͡siˈtaːt/
US /tsiˈtɑt/
The stress is on the second syllable: zi-TAT.
Rima com
Plakat Soldat Salat Diktat Format Resultat Apparat Staat
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'Z' like an English 'z' (as in 'zebra'). It must be a 'ts' sound.
  • Making the 'i' too short; it should be a long 'ee' sound.
  • Swapping the vowels and saying something like 'Zaitat'.
  • Stressing the first syllable instead of the second.
  • Pronouncing the final 't' too softly.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts due to quotation marks.

Escrita 4/5

Requires knowledge of neuter gender and plural forms.

Expressão oral 3/5

Pronunciation of 'Z' as 'ts' can be tricky for beginners.

Audição 2/5

Usually clear and well-enunciated in formal speech.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

Wort Satz Buch sagen schreiben

Aprenda a seguir

Quelle Beleg Urheberrecht Literatur Aussage

Avançado

Intertextualität Hermeneutik Plagiat Aphorismus Epigraph

Gramática essencial

Neuter Nouns in '-at'

Das Zitat, das Diktat, das Referat (most are neuter).

Quotation Marks (Anführungszeichen)

Opening: „ (ALT+0132), Closing: “ (ALT+0147).

Genitive Case for Authorship

Das Zitat Goethes (Genitive 's' for names).

Dative Plural '-n'

In den Zitaten (add 'n' to the plural form in dative).

Subjunctive I for Indirect Speech

Er sagte, er habe das Zitat gelesen (instead of direct quoting).

Exemplos por nível

1

Das Zitat ist kurz.

The quote is short.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

2

Hast du ein Zitat?

Do you have a quote?

Direct object in the accusative case (neuter).

3

Hier ist mein Lieblingszitat.

Here is my favorite quote.

Compound noun: Lieblings + Zitat.

4

Das Zitat ist von Goethe.

The quote is from Goethe.

Using 'von' to indicate the author.

5

Ich schreibe ein Zitat.

I am writing a quote.

Present tense verb 'schreiben'.

6

Das Zitat ist schön.

The quote is beautiful.

Neuter article 'das'.

7

Ist das ein Zitat?

Is that a quote?

Question form with 'ist'.

8

Ich lese ein Zitat.

I am reading a quote.

Verb 'lesen' with accusative object.

1

Dieses Zitat gefällt mir sehr.

I like this quote very much.

Dative verb 'gefallen'.

2

Er sucht ein Zitat für seine Karte.

He is looking for a quote for his card.

Preposition 'für' takes the accusative.

3

Wir lernen heute berühmte Zitate.

We are learning famous quotes today.

Plural form 'Zitate'.

4

Das Zitat steht auf Seite zehn.

The quote is on page ten.

Preposition 'auf' with dative for location.

5

Kannst du das Zitat wiederholen?

Can you repeat the quote?

Modal verb 'können' with infinitive 'wiederholen'.

6

Ich kenne viele Zitate aus Filmen.

I know many quotes from movies.

Plural 'viele Zitate'.

7

Das Zitat ist sehr alt.

The quote is very old.

Adverb 'sehr' modifying 'alt'.

8

Sie hat das Zitat an die Wand gemalt.

She painted the quote on the wall.

Perfect tense with 'hat' and 'gemalt'.

1

Ein gutes Zitat kann eine Rede interessanter machen.

A good quote can make a speech more interesting.

Modal verb 'kann' and comparative 'interessanter'.

2

In diesem Aufsatz fehlt ein passendes Zitat.

A suitable quote is missing in this essay.

Verb 'fehlen' with nominative subject.

3

Man sollte Zitate immer richtig kennzeichnen.

One should always mark quotes correctly.

Modal verb 'sollte' (recommendation).

4

Das Zitat verdeutlicht die Meinung des Autors.

The quote clarifies the author's opinion.

Genitive case 'des Autors'.

5

Ich habe das Zitat im Internet gefunden.

I found the quote on the internet.

Perfect tense with 'gefunden'.

6

Das Zitat stammt aus einem bekannten Roman.

The quote comes from a well-known novel.

Verb 'stammen aus' + dative.

7

Können Sie mir die Quelle für dieses Zitat nennen?

Can you tell me the source for this quote?

Dative 'mir' and accusative 'die Quelle'.

8

Oft werden Zitate aus dem Zusammenhang gerissen.

Quotes are often taken out of context.

Passive voice 'werden... gerissen'.

1

Die Analyse des Zitats ist ein wichtiger Teil der Prüfung.

The analysis of the quote is an important part of the exam.

Genitive 'des Zitats'.

2

Er untermauerte seine Argumente mit zahlreichen Zitaten.

He underpinned his arguments with numerous quotes.

Instrumental 'mit' + dative plural.

3

Ein falsches Zitat kann den Ruf eines Journalisten schädigen.

A wrong quote can damage a journalist's reputation.

Accusative object 'den Ruf'.

4

Das Zitat wurde fälschlicherweise Einstein zugeschrieben.

The quote was incorrectly attributed to Einstein.

Passive voice and adverb 'fälschlicherweise'.

5

Sie baute das Zitat geschickt in ihre Präsentation ein.

She skillfully incorporated the quote into her presentation.

Separable verb 'einbauen'.

6

Wissenschaftliches Arbeiten erfordert den korrekten Umgang mit Zitaten.

Scientific work requires the correct handling of quotes.

Abstract noun 'Umgang' with preposition 'mit'.

7

Dieses Zitat spiegelt die damalige gesellschaftliche Situation wider.

This quote reflects the social situation of that time.

Separable verb 'widerspiegeln'.

8

Ein direktes Zitat muss wortwörtlich übernommen werden.

A direct quote must be taken literally.

Modal passive 'muss... übernommen werden'.

1

Die hermeneutische Interpretation dieses Zitats eröffnet neue Perspektiven.

The hermeneutic interpretation of this quote opens new perspectives.

Academic vocabulary: hermeneutisch, Interpretation.

2

Das Zitat fungiert hier als intertextueller Verweis.

The quote functions here as an intertextual reference.

Technical term 'intertextueller Verweis'.

3

Durch das Zitat wird die Autorität des Textes gestärkt.

The authority of the text is strengthened by the quote.

Passive voice with 'durch' + accusative.

4

Es ist schwierig, die Ironie in diesem Zitat zu erfassen.

It is difficult to grasp the irony in this quote.

Infinitive construction with 'zu'.

5

Das Zitat dient als Ausgangspunkt für die folgende Diskussion.

The quote serves as a starting point for the following discussion.

Verb 'dienen als'.

6

Viele Zitate in diesem Werk sind eher dekorativer Natur.

Many quotes in this work are of a rather decorative nature.

Genitive of quality 'dekorativer Natur'.

7

Die Fehlinterpretation des Zitats führte zu einem öffentlichen Skandal.

The misinterpretation of the quote led to a public scandal.

Compound noun 'Fehlinterpretation'.

8

Zitate können als kulturelles Kapital betrachtet werden.

Quotes can be viewed as cultural capital.

Sociological term 'kulturelles Kapital'.

1

Das Zitat evoziert eine Atmosphäre der Melancholie und des Verlusts.

The quote evokes an atmosphere of melancholy and loss.

High-level verb 'evozieren'.

2

In der Postmoderne verliert das Zitat oft seinen ursprünglichen Kontext.

In postmodernism, the quote often loses its original context.

Philosophical context 'Postmoderne'.

3

Die Akkumulation von Zitaten kann die Originalität eines Werkes untergraben.

The accumulation of quotes can undermine the originality of a work.

Noun 'Akkumulation' and verb 'untergraben'.

4

Dieses Zitat ist ein Paradebeispiel für die rhetorische Figur der Ironie.

This quote is a prime example of the rhetorical figure of irony.

Rhetorical terminology.

5

Die Dekonstruktion des Zitats offenbart tiefere Bedeutungsebenen.

The deconstruction of the quote reveals deeper levels of meaning.

Philosophical term 'Dekonstruktion'.

6

Das Zitat wird hier als prätextuelles Element instrumentalisiert.

The quote is instrumentalized here as a pretextual element.

Complex passive construction.

7

Eine exzessive Verwendung von Zitaten kann pedantisch wirken.

An excessive use of quotes can appear pedantic.

Adjective 'pedantisch'.

8

Das Zitat transzendiert die Grenzen seiner ursprünglichen Epoche.

The quote transcends the boundaries of its original era.

Abstract verb 'transzendieren'.

Colocações comuns

ein Zitat anführen
ein Zitat verwenden
ein wörtliches Zitat
ein passendes Zitat
ein berühmtes Zitat
das Zitat belegen
aus einem Zitat bestehen
ein Zitat einbauen
ein Zitat fälschen
das Zitat prüfen

Frases Comuns

Zitat Ende

— Used when speaking to indicate the end of a quotation.

Er sagte: 'Ich komme morgen', Zitat Ende.

Wie das Zitat sagt...

— A common way to introduce the content of a quote.

Wie das Zitat sagt, ist Zeit Geld.

Laut dem Zitat...

— According to the quote...

Laut dem Zitat war er nie dort.

Ein Zitat von...

— A quote by [Author].

Das ist ein Zitat von Schiller.

In Form eines Zitats

— In the form of a quote.

Die Antwort kam in Form eines Zitats.

Ein Zitat aus dem Zusammenhang reißen

— To take a quote out of context.

Die Presse hat das Zitat aus dem Zusammenhang gerissen.

Zitate sammeln

— To collect quotes.

Sie liebt es, schöne Zitate zu sammeln.

Ein Zitat im Kopf haben

— To have a quote in mind.

Ich habe da gerade ein passendes Zitat im Kopf.

Das Zitat steht für...

— The quote stands for/represents...

Dieses Zitat steht für seine ganze Philosophie.

Ein Zitat als Motto wählen

— To choose a quote as a motto.

Wir haben dieses Zitat als Motto für unsere Hochzeit gewählt.

Frequentemente confundido com

Zitat vs Zutat

Zutat means 'ingredient' (for cooking). Don't put a Zitat in your cake!

Zitat vs Spruch

Spruch is a saying or slogan, often less formal or unattributed compared to a Zitat.

Zitat vs Satz

Satz is just a 'sentence'. A Zitat is a sentence with a specific source.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Ein wandelndes Zitatlexikon sein"

— To be someone who knows an incredible number of quotes by heart.

Mein Opa ist ein wandelndes Zitatlexikon.

informal
"Zitate dreschen"

— To use many quotes in a superficial or annoying way.

Er drosch den ganzen Abend nur Zitate.

informal/negative
"Ein Zitat als Schild vor sich hertragen"

— To use a quote to protect oneself or justify one's actions.

Er trägt dieses Zitat wie ein Schild vor sich her.

literary
"Sich mit fremden Federn (Zitaten) schmücken"

— To take credit for someone else's ideas (often by using quotes without attribution).

Er schmückt sich mit den Zitaten großer Denker.

figurative
"Das Zitat ist Gold wert"

— The quote is extremely useful or valuable in a specific situation.

In dieser Diskussion war das Zitat Gold wert.

informal
"Ein Zitat auf Lager haben"

— To have a quote ready for use.

Für jede Situation hat sie ein Zitat auf Lager.

informal
"Das Zitat spricht Bände"

— The quote says a lot about a situation or person without needing further explanation.

Sein letztes Zitat spricht Bände über seinen Charakter.

neutral
"Ein Zitat zum Besten geben"

— To perform or recite a quote for others' entertainment.

Er gab ein lustiges Filmzitat zum Besten.

neutral
"Auf Punkt und Komma zitieren"

— To quote something exactly, down to the punctuation marks.

Er kann den ganzen Text auf Punkt und Komma zitieren.

neutral
"Ein Zitat in den Mund nehmen"

— To use or say a specific quote.

Ich würde dieses Zitat niemals in den Mund nehmen.

neutral

Fácil de confundir

Zitat vs Zutat

Similar spelling and sound.

A Zutat is for food (ingredient); a Zitat is for texts (quotation).

Salz ist eine wichtige Zutat. Goethe hat ein schönes Zitat.

Zitat vs Spruch

Overlapping meaning of 'saying'.

Spruch is often anonymous or a proverb; Zitat is a specific citation.

Ein dummer Spruch. Ein kluges Zitat.

Zitat vs Anführung

Both relate to quoting.

Anführung is the act of citing; Zitat is the quoted text itself.

Die Anführung des Zitats war korrekt.

Zitat vs Aussage

Both involve spoken/written words.

Aussage is a general statement; Zitat is a word-for-word repetition.

Seine Aussage war klar. Das Zitat war wörtlich.

Zitat vs Diktat

Ending in '-at'.

Diktat is a dictation (writing practice); Zitat is a quote.

Wir schreiben ein Diktat. Wir lesen ein Zitat.

Padrões de frases

A1

Das Zitat ist [Adjektiv].

Das Zitat ist gut.

A2

Ich finde das Zitat [Adjektiv].

Ich finde das Zitat schön.

B1

Ein Zitat von [Person] besagt, dass...

Ein Zitat von Kant besagt, dass wir denken sollen.

B1

Wie es in dem Zitat heißt, ...

Wie es in dem Zitat heißt, ist das Leben kurz.

B2

Durch dieses Zitat wird deutlich, dass...

Durch dieses Zitat wird deutlich, dass er Angst hatte.

B2

Man kann dieses Zitat so interpretieren, dass...

Man kann dieses Zitat so interpretieren, dass Frieden wichtig ist.

C1

Das Zitat lässt den Schluss zu, dass...

Das Zitat lässt den Schluss zu, dass die Theorie falsch ist.

C2

Die Implikationen dieses Zitats erstrecken sich auf...

Die Implikationen dieses Zitats erstrecken sich auf die gesamte Politik.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

Zitierweise
Zitierregel
Zitationsindex
Zitierfähigkeit
Filmzitat
Lieblingszitat
Bibelzitat

Verbos

zitieren
beizitieren
herbeizitieren
umzitieren

Adjetivos

zitierfähig
zitierwürdig
zitiert

Relacionado

Quelle
Autor
Textstelle
Beleg
Nachweis

Como usar

frequency

High in educational and professional settings.

Erros comuns
  • Der Zitat ist lang. Das Zitat ist lang.

    The noun 'Zitat' is neuter, not masculine. Always use 'das' or 'ein'.

  • Ich mag diese Zitaten. Ich mag diese Zitate.

    The nominative/accusative plural is 'Zitate'. 'Zitaten' is only for dative plural.

  • Er hat ein Zutat gesagt. Er hat ein Zitat gesagt.

    Don't confuse 'Zutat' (ingredient) with 'Zitat' (quote).

  • Das Zitat von Buch. Das Zitat aus dem Buch.

    When quoting from a written source, use the preposition 'aus'.

  • „Zitat". „Zitat“.

    In German, the closing quotation mark is at the top, not the bottom. (The mistake was using a period outside or wrong marks).

Dicas

Gender Check

Always pair 'Zitat' with 'das'. Practice saying 'Das kluge Zitat' five times fast to build muscle memory.

Introductory Verbs

Instead of just using 'sagt', try 'lautet' or 'besagt'. It makes your writing sound much more professional.

Avoid Plagiarism

In Germany, citing correctly is a matter of honor. Always include the 'Quellennachweis' (author, year, page).

Goethe and Schiller

Learning a few famous Zitate from these authors will impress any German speaker and show deep cultural knowledge.

Low-High Marks

If you use a German keyboard, the quotation marks are usually on the '2' key with Shift, but the bottom one requires a special shortcut or auto-format.

Clear 'Z'

The 'Z' in Zitat is like a 'ts' sound. Imagine there is a tiny 't' before the 's'.

Compounds

Look out for compound words. If you see '...zitat', it's always neuter and always means some kind of quote.

Context Clues

If you see text in „ “, it is almost certainly a Zitat. Look for the name nearby to find the author.

News Cues

Journalists often say 'Ich zitiere...' to distance themselves from a controversial statement.

Visualizing

Picture a 'Citation' (English) and just change the spelling to 'Zitat'. They share the same Latin root.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'Seat' (sounds like 'Zit') where a famous person sat. Now imagine their words are stuck to that seat—that's a Zitat!

Associação visual

Imagine a pair of large, glowing quotation marks („ “) hugging a book. Inside the marks is the word 'Zitat'.

Word Web

Buch Autor Schreiben Rede Wahrheit Quelle Wissenschaft Gedächtnis

Desafio

Try to find one German Zitat today and write it down. Then, try to use the word 'Zitat' in a sentence when talking to a friend or teacher.

Origem da palavra

The word 'Zitat' originated in the 18th century. It is a loanword from the Latin verb 'citare', which is the intensive form of 'ciere' (to set in motion, to call).

Significado original: In Latin, 'citare' meant to summon someone to court or to call forward as a witness. This evolved into 'calling forward' a text as a witness for one's argument.

Indo-European -> Latin -> German.

Contexto cultural

Be careful when quoting historical figures from the Nazi era; even if the quote itself is neutral, the source can be highly offensive or controversial.

In English, we often use 'quote' as both a noun and a verb. In German, 'Zitat' is strictly the noun, and 'zitieren' is the verb.

Goethes Faust: Many lines from this play are used as Zitate in daily life. The 'Zitierkartell': A term used in academia to describe researchers who quote each other excessively to boost rankings. Winston Churchill: Often the subject of 'falsche Zitate' in German social media.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

School/University

  • Zitate belegen
  • Zitierregeln beachten
  • ein wörtliches Zitat
  • die Quelle angeben

Journalism

  • jemanden zitieren
  • ein Zitat autorisieren
  • falsches Zitat
  • Exklusiv-Zitat

Social Media

  • Zitate teilen
  • Inspirations-Zitat
  • Zitat des Tages
  • Lieblingszitat

Law

  • Zitierrecht
  • ein Urteil zitieren
  • Beweis durch Zitat
  • Zitierpflicht

Literature

  • ein Zitat analysieren
  • Motto-Zitat
  • klassische Zitate
  • ein Zitat einbetten

Iniciadores de conversa

"Was ist dein absolutes Lieblingszitat aus einem Film?"

"Glaubst du, dass Zitate in einer Rede wichtig sind?"

"Welches Zitat von einer berühmten Person findest du am inspirierendsten?"

"Hast du schon mal ein Zitat in einem Aufsatz falsch benutzt?"

"Kennst du ein deutsches Zitat, das man schwer übersetzen kann?"

Temas para diário

Schreibe über ein Zitat, das dein Leben verändert hat oder dich zum Nachdenken gebracht hat.

Reflektiere über die Bedeutung von Zitaten in der heutigen Social-Media-Welt. Sind sie hilfreich oder oberflächlich?

Wähle ein Zitat von Goethe und versuche zu erklären, was es für dich heute bedeutet.

Warum ist es deiner Meinung nach so wichtig, Zitate in wissenschaftlichen Arbeiten korrekt zu kennzeichnen?

Erfinde dein eigenes Zitat für die Zukunft. Was würdest du der nächsten Generation sagen wollen?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Es ist neuter: das Zitat. Das ist wichtig für die Adjektivendungen, zum Beispiel 'ein schönes Zitat'.

Der Plural ist 'die Zitate'. Im Dativ Plural heißt es 'den Zitaten'.

Ein Zitat ist wortwörtlich. Eine Paraphrase gibt den Inhalt in eigenen Worten wieder.

Ja, man nennt das oft 'Filmzitat'. Es ist sehr verbreitet in der Alltagssprache.

Ja, das Verb ist 'zitieren'. Es ist ein schwaches Verb: ich zitiere, ich zitierte, ich habe zitiert.

Man benutzt die Anführungszeichen unten und oben: „Zitat“.

Man sagt das beim Sprechen, um zu zeigen, dass das Zitat hier aufhört.

Ja, theoretisch kann man auch ein einzelnes, prägnantes Wort als Zitat kennzeichnen.

Das ist eine Paraphrase, die trotzdem eine Quellenangabe braucht. Im Deutschen nutzt man dafür oft den Konjunktiv I.

Weil man in Hausarbeiten alles belegen muss. Ohne Zitate (oder mit falschen) begeht man ein Plagiat.

Teste-se 109 perguntas

writing

Schreibe einen Satz mit 'das Zitat'.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Schreibe einen Satz über dein Lieblingszitat.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Warum sind Zitate in der Schule wichtig?

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Was passiert bei einem Plagiat?

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Analysiere die Funktion von Zitaten in der Politik.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Wie heißt 'the quotes' auf Deutsch?

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Sag 'Das Zitat' laut.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Lies dieses Zitat vor: „Aller Anfang ist schwer.“

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Erkläre, was ein Zitat ist.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Diskutiere über die Gefahr von falschen Zitaten.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Zitiere deinen Lieblingsautor und erkläre warum.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Hörst du 'Zitat' oder 'Zutat'? (Text: Das Zitat von Kant ist schwer.)

Academic context.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Wie viele Zitate hörst du? (Text: Hier ist ein Zitat und dort sind zwei Zitate.)

Count them.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Verfassen Sie eine kurze Reflexion über die ethische Dimension des Zitierens in der Ära von KI-generierten Texten.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 109 correct

Perfect score!

Foi útil?
Nenhum comentário ainda. Seja o primeiro a compartilhar suas ideias!