das Gelächter
laughter (especially loud or collective)
Gelächter means laughter, especially loud or collective laughter from a group. It is a neutral noun and is often used when describing a burst of laughter in a situation, sometimes with a slightly formal or narrative tone.
Example sentences
- Plötzlich brach die ganze Klasse in Gelächter aus.Suddenly the whole class burst into laughter.
- Sein Witz löste lautes Gelächter aus.His joke triggered loud laughter.
- Das Gelächter im Publikum war nicht zu überhören.The laughter in the audience was impossible to miss.
Grammar
| Gender | neuter |
|---|---|
| Plural | no plural (uncountable) |
| Genitive | des Gelächters |
| Declension note | Used only in singular; no plural form. |
Gelächter is uncountable, so it never takes a plural form. Use it with singular verbs: Das Gelächter war laut.
Common phrases
- in Gelächter ausbrechento burst into laughter
- lautes Gelächterloud laughter
- schallendes Gelächterroaring laughter
- hämisches Gelächterscornful laughter
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often confuse Gelächter with das Lachen. Gelächter refers to a specific outburst or sound of laughter, often collective, while Lachen is the general act or process of laughing. Use Gelächter for a noticeable, often loud laughter event.
Don’t confuse it with
- das Lachen — Lachen is the general act of laughing, while Gelächter refers to a specific, often loud or collective laughter.
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between Gelächter and Lachen?
Lachen is the general act or process of laughing, while Gelächter refers to a specific, often loud or collective burst of laughter.
Does Gelächter have a plural form?
No, Gelächter is uncountable and has no plural. Use it only in the singular.
How do you say 'to burst into laughter' in German?
You can say 'in Gelächter ausbrechen' or 'in Lachen ausbrechen'. Both are common, but Gelächter emphasizes the loudness or collective nature.