alter — meaning in English: older

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

Guess the translation for age

vergessen

alter

alle

seine

stunden

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

informal common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 'alter' in casual conversations to refer to someone's age or when discussing generational differences. For instance, a young person might say, 'Mein Bruder ist älter als ich,' meaning 'My brother is older than me,' during a family gathering or while chatting with friends.

Synonyms & nuances

'Älter' is a direct synonym for 'alter,' but 'älter' is generally used in all contexts, while 'alter' can carry a more informal or colloquial tone. You might choose 'alter' when talking casually among friends, while 'älter' works well in formal settings.

Culture

'Alter' has roots in the Old High German word 'altra,' which also means 'old' or 'elder.' In Germany, age is often associated with wisdom and respect, making the term not only a descriptor but also a marker of social status in various contexts.

FAQ

Q.What is the difference between 'alter' and 'älter' in German?

'Alter' is more colloquial and often used in informal contexts, while 'älter' is the standard comparative form of 'alt' (old) and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

Q.How do I use 'alter' in a sentence?

'Alter' is typically used to compare ages, like in 'Er ist älter als ich' (He is older than me). It's also common in expressions referring to someone's maturity or life experience.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'alter'?

Many learners mistakenly use 'alter' as a noun to mean 'age' instead of using it as an adjective in comparisons. Remember, 'alter' describes someone being older rather than being a stand-alone term for age.

Learn german with Maspeak →

German 500