mehr — meaning in English: more

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dann

kleine

sollten

weiss

mehr

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use 'mehr' when expressing a desire for additional quantity or degree, such as ordering food at a restaurant ('Ich hätte gern mehr Wasser') or requesting help during a group project ('Kannst du mir mehr Informationen geben?'). It's commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings like presentations or discussions.

Synonyms & nuances

'Mehr' can be closely associated with 'zusätzlich', which translates to 'additional'. While 'mehr' broadly refers to a greater amount or degree, 'zusätzlich' is more specific to adding something extra that was not originally included. You would choose 'mehr' when discussing increasing quantity, but 'zusätzlich' when referring to supplementary items.

Culture

'Mehr' originates from the Old High German 'mēri', which is related to the English word 'more'. This connection highlights the shared roots of the Germanic language family. In German-speaking cultures, the concept of 'mehr' is often intertwined with efficiency, prompting a cultural emphasis on seeking improvement or enhancement in various aspects of life, from productivity to quality of leisure activities.

FAQ

Q.How do you use 'mehr' in a sentence?

'Mehr' can be used to indicate an increase in quantity or intensity, such as 'Ich brauche mehr Zeit' (I need more time). It's versatile and can fit into many contexts, from everyday conversation to formal writing.

Q.Is 'mehr' used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, 'mehr' is a neutral term that fits well in both formal and informal situations. Whether you’re at a formal event or chatting with friends, using 'mehr' is appropriate.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'mehr'?

A common mistake is using 'mehr' when a specific quantity is implied. For example, instead of saying 'Ich möchte mehr Äpfel' (I want more apples), you might want to specify the number, like 'Ich möchte fünf Äpfel'.

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