heißt — meaning in English: called

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for mean

nein

bleiben

heißt

seinen

Skip this question

🎓

Learn German for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral very common

Usage

Native German speakers use 'heißt' in various contexts, particularly when introducing themselves or others. For example, in a casual setting, one might say, 'Ich heiße Anna,' which translates to 'My name is Anna.' It's also common in formal introductions during meetings or presentations.

Synonyms & nuances

'Heißt' is often used interchangeably with 'genannt,' which also means 'called.' However, 'genannt' tends to be more formal and is often used in legal documents or official contexts. 'Heißt' is more accessible and used in everyday conversation.

Culture

'Heißt' comes from the Old High German word 'heizan,' meaning 'to call.' This reflects the importance of names in German culture, where they can signify heritage or family history. Interestingly, in German-speaking countries, names often have specific meanings tied to historical figures or professions, adding layers of significance to the word.

FAQ

Q.How do I use 'heißt' in a sentence?

'Heißt' is used to introduce a name. For example, you might say, 'Das ist mein Freund, er heißt Max,' meaning 'This is my friend, he is called Max.'

Q.Is 'heißt' used only for names?

'Heißt' is primarily used to indicate names, but it can also be used in phrases like 'Das heißt,' which means 'that means.' This shows how versatile the word can be in different contexts.

Q.What are common mistakes with 'heißt'?

A common mistake is to confuse 'heißt' with 'heiß,' which means 'hot.' Remember, 'heißt' relates specifically to calling or naming someone.

Learn german with Maspeak →

German 500