gegenüber
Meaning and Usage
"Gegenüber" in German means "opposite" or "across from" and is commonly used to indicate a location or direction in relation to something else. It can also be used in the sense of "in comparison to" or "towards" when expressing a contrast or a standpoint.
Linguistic Analysis
The word "gegenüber" is a preposition and adverb in German. It is composed of the prefix "gegen-" meaning "against" or "opposite" and the word "über" which means "over" or "across". The combination of these two forms the word "gegenüber".
Comparisons between German and English
The German word "gegenüber" can be translated to "opposite" or "across from" in English. Both languages use this word to indicate the position or direction of something relative to another object.
Cultural Context
In German-speaking countries, "gegenüber" is commonly used in giving and receiving directions, as well as in expressing opinions, comparisons, or contrasts.
Example Sentences
- Das Restaurant ist gegenüber dem Kino. (The restaurant is across from the cinema.)
- Gegenüber meinem Vater habe ich eine andere Meinung. (In comparison to my father, I have a different opinion.)
Memory Tips
To remember the meaning of "gegenüber", think of the English term "opposite" and its relation to the direction or comparison.
Additional Vocabulary
- Die Seite (f) - the side
- Entgegengesetzt - opposite, contrary
- Gegenteil (n) - opposite, contrary
Gender and Plural (for nouns)
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Conjugation (for verbs)
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