German word

klappen

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈklapən/

Meaning

  • verbwork

Example

Es klappt nicht.

It doesn't work.

Illustration for klappen (work)

More examples

Mit etwas Hilfe klappt das bei mir.

With a little help, it works for me.

Core concept

A hinged lid snaps shut, and a plan's parts fall into place.

Common phrases

  • bei mir klappt

    work for me

  • ganz gut klappt

    work quite well

  • mit etwas Hilfe klappt

    work with a little help

Similar words

funktionieren: Operate correctly and perform as expected.
gelingen: Succeed and produce the desired result.
schaffen: Manage to achieve a goal through effort.
gehen: Proceed smoothly without delays or problems.

Definition in German

(umgangssprachlich) so stattfinden oder sich entwickeln, dass ein erwünschtes Ergebnis erreicht wird

Word origin

The verb continues Middle High German klappen and is linked to the sound of striking or snapping, with a later figurative sense of succeeding.

Usage tips

  • In the success sense, klappen commonly has the impersonal subject "es", as in "Es klappt" or "Es hat geklappt".

Other meanings

  • foldverb
  • snap shutverb

Opposites

Related words

  • aufklappenunfoldverb
  • zusammenklappenfold upverb

Word lists with this word