warte — meaning in English: wait

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

Guess the translation for wait

warte

würde

als

wusste

bleibt

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 common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'warte' in everyday situations, such as when asking someone to hold on while they grab something or when waiting for a bus. It is also common in more formal settings, like when addressing a customer in a shop, saying 'Warte bitte' to indicate a brief pause.

Synonyms & nuances

'Warte' is often used in informal contexts, while synonyms like 'abwarten' imply a more passive form of waiting, suggesting one should wait for an outcome rather than take action. Choosing 'warte' conveys a more active request to someone to pause or delay.

Culture

'Warte' comes from the Old High German word 'warten,' which meant 'to guard or watch.' This reflects a cultural emphasis on patience and vigilance, traits admired in German-speaking societies. Additionally, the concept of waiting is embedded in German punctuality; being on time often means not just arriving promptly but also being receptive to the needs of others in social contexts.

FAQ

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

'Warte' is often used with the informal 'du' form. For example, you might say, 'Warte kurz, ich komme gleich,' which means 'Wait a moment, I will be right there.'

Q.Is 'warte' only used in informal situations?

'Warte' can be used in both informal and neutral settings. While it’s common among friends, it can also be used in polite requests, like 'Warte bitte,' making it versatile.

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

A common mistake is using 'warte' too formally in situations where a softer tone is preferred. Adding 'bitte' (please) can make a request sound more polite, especially in customer service scenarios.

Learn german with Maspeak →

German 500