die Briefmarke, -n
Meaning and Usage
Die Briefmarke is a German noun that translates to "postage stamp" in English. It refers to a small piece of paper that is purchased and displayed on an item of mail as evidence of payment of postage.
Linguistic Analysis
The word "Briefmarke" consists of the root "Marke" (mark) and the prefix "Brief" (letter). The plural form is "Briefmarken."
Comparisons between German and English
The German word "Briefmarke" is a compound noun, combining "Brief" (letter) and "Marke" (mark), whereas the English term "postage stamp" directly encompasses the concept of the stamp as a means of paying for postage.
Cultural Context
In Germany, collecting stamps (briefmarkensammeln) is a popular hobby, reflecting an interest in history, art, and travel.
Example Sentences
- Ich muss zur Post, um Briefmarken zu kaufen. (I have to go to the post office to buy stamps.)
- Sammeln Sie Briefmarken? (Do you collect stamps?)
Memory Tips
Associate "Briefmarke" with the English words "postage stamp," focusing on the context of being affixed to a letter for mailing.
Additional Vocabulary
- Der Brief - the letter
- Die Post - the post office
- Frankieren - to stamp (postage)
- Die Sammlung - the collection
Gender and Plural
- Gender: feminine
- Plural: die Briefmarken
Conjugation
Not applicable (nouns do not have conjugations).