German word

einander

Pronunciation

IPA/aɪ̯ˈnandɐ/

Meaning

  • pronouneach other

Example

Wir schreiben einander Briefe.

We write letters to each other.

Illustration for einander (each other)

More examples

Die Nachbarn helfen einander beim Umzug.

The neighbors help each other with the move.

Core concept

Several people send actions or feelings back and forth so that each person reaches the others.

Common phrases

  • einander helfen

    help each other

  • sich einander vorstellen

    introduce themselves to each other

  • einander vertrauen

    trust each other

Similar words

sich: Refers to people acting toward one another, such as when they meet or speak.

Definition in German

Bezeichnet wechselseige Handlungen oder Beziehungen; drückt aus, dass Beteiligte einander etwas tun oder füreinander sind und steht meist im Objektbereich des Satzes.

Word origin

The reciprocal pronoun einander arose from the German phrase ein ander, literally referring to one person in relation to another.

Usage tips

  • Einander has a somewhat formal or written tone, while everyday German often uses sich in reciprocal sentences such as Sie helfen sich.

Other meanings

  • mutuallyadverb

Word lists with this word