der Fehler

Meaning and Usage

"Der Fehler" in German translates to "the mistake" or "the error" in English. It is used to refer to something that is incorrect, inaccurate, or flawed.

Linguistic Analysis

The word "Fehler" does not have a prefix or a suffix and is considered to be a standalone noun. It comes from the Middle High German "velür" and the Old High German "felah" which both mean "loss" or "lack."

Comparisons between German and English

The word "Fehler" has a direct counterpart in English, "mistake" or "error," and is used in similar contexts.

Cultural Context

In German culture, the concept of admitting to and rectifying mistakes is highly valued. The word "Fehler" is often used in professional and personal contexts to express responsibility and a commitment to improvement.

Example Sentences

• Der Lehrer hat einen Fehler in der Rechnung entdeckt. (The teacher found a mistake in the calculation.)
• Es tut mir leid, ich habe einen großen Fehler gemacht. (I'm sorry, I made a big mistake.)

Memory Tips

Associate "Fehler" with the English word "failure" to remember that it refers to a mistake or error.

Additional Vocabulary

• Die Panne (f): mishap
• Der Irrtum (m): misconception
• Die Korrektur (f): correction

Gender and Plural

• Gender: masculine
• Plural: die Fehler

Conjugation

Not applicable, as "Fehler" is a noun and does not have a conjugated form for different tenses.