der Bahnhof

Meaning and Usage

"Der Bahnhof" in German refers to the train station, where trains arrive and depart. It is a common place in cities and towns, serving as a hub for transportation.

Linguistic Analysis

The word "Bahnhof" is a compound noun in German, combining the words "Bahn" (track) and "Hof" (yard). The etymology of "Bahnhof" reflects its literal meaning as a yard for trains.

Comparisons between German and English

The word "Bahnhof" is similar to the English word "train station" in its meaning and usage.

Cultural Context

Train travel has been a significant mode of transportation in Germany and is deeply embedded in the country's cultural fabric. Therefore, "der Bahnhof" holds a central place in many German communities.

Example Sentences

  1. Der Bahnhof ist sehr groß und modern. (The train station is very large and modern.)
  2. Wir treffen uns am Bahnhof. (We are meeting at the train station.)

Memory Tips

Associate "Bahnhof" with "train yard" to remember its meaning as the place where trains come and go.

Additional Vocabulary

  • der Zug (train)
  • die Abfahrt (departure)
  • die Ankunft (arrival)

Gender and Plural (for nouns)

  • Gender: masculine
  • Plural: die Bahnhöfe

Conjugation (for verbs)

Not applicable, as "Bahnhof" is a noun.