gerade
straight · even
Gerade means 'straight' or 'even' when used as an adjective. It describes something without curves or bends, or a number divisible by two. Learners often meet it first as an adverb meaning 'right now', but as an adjective it is about straightness or evenness.
What gerade means
- straight — describing a line, road, or movement without curves
- even — describing a number divisible by two
Example sentences
- Wir gehen auf einer geraden Straße.We are walking on a straight road.
- Zeichne eine gerade Linie mit dem Lineal.Draw a straight line with the ruler.
- Vier ist eine gerade Zahl.Four is an even number.
Grammar
| Comparative | gerader |
|---|---|
| Superlative | am geradesten |
As an adjective, it takes normal adjective endings: ein gerader Weg, die gerade Linie.
Common phrases
- gerade Zahleven number
- gerade Liniestraight line
The mistake English speakers make
English speakers often confuse the adjective 'gerade' (straight/even) with the adverb 'gerade' (just now). Remember: if it describes a noun, it means straight or even; if it describes when something happens, it means 'right now' or 'just'.
Don’t confuse it with
- geradeaus — Geradeaus is an adverb meaning 'straight ahead', while gerade as an adjective describes a noun as straight.
Questions learners ask
What is the difference between 'gerade' and 'geradeaus'?
Gerade is an adjective meaning 'straight' or 'even', while geradeaus is an adverb meaning 'straight ahead'.
How do you say 'even number' in German?
You say 'gerade Zahl'. For example, 2, 4, 6 are gerade Zahlen.