German word

Umbau

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈʊmˌbaʊ̯/

Meaning

  • masculine nounremodeling

Example

Der Umbau des Wohnhauses beginnt im Mai.

The remodeling of the house begins in May.

Illustration for Umbau (remodeling)

More examples

Beim Umbau eines Altbaus muss oft die Statik geprüft werden.

When remodeling an old building, its structural integrity often needs to be checked.

Core concept

Walls, rooms, or floor plans are changed inside an existing building to create a different arrangement or function.

Common phrases

  • vor dem Umbau

    before the remodeling

  • Kosten für den Umbau

    costs for the remodeling

  • einen Umbau planen

    plan a remodeling

Similar words

Renovierung: Repairing worn interior or exterior surfaces to improve their condition or appearance.
Modernisierung: Updating equipment or systems to improve performance or efficiency.
Umgestaltung: Changing an interior layout or exterior design to alter a place's look or use.
Ausbau: Finishing unused space so it becomes suitable for living or other activities.

Definition in German

Umbau ist die Veränderung der Bausubstanz oder des Grundrisses eines Gebäudes zur neuen Nutzung.

Word origin

Umbau is a compound of um- and Bau; um- marks a change, while Bau comes from bauen, meaning to build.

Usage tips

  • Umbau usually suggests structural alteration, whereas Renovierung more often concerns repair or renewal without changing the basic layout.

Other meanings

  • renovationnoun
  • alterationnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • umbauenremodelverb
  • Umbauarbeitenremodeling worknoun

Word lists with this word