German word

taugen

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈtaʊ̯gn̩/

Meaning

  • verbbe useful

Example

Dieses Messer taugt nicht zum Schneiden.

This knife isn't useful for cutting.

Illustration for taugen (be useful)

More examples

Dieses Werkzeug taugt für schnelle Reparaturen.

This tool is suitable for quick repairs.

Core concept

A tool is tested against a real task and proves fit for it.

Common phrases

  • taugt für den Gebrauch

    be suitable for use

  • taugt zu nichts

    be of no use

  • taugt als Geschenk

    be suitable as a gift

Similar words

passen: Match the required size, shape, or timing.
reichen: Meet the required amount or need.
sich eignen: Be well suited to a particular use.
nutzen: Bring a useful benefit or effect through use.

Definition in German

Sich als nützlich oder geeignet für eine bestimmte Aufgabe erweisen

Word origin

Taugen is an inherited Germanic verb, recorded in Old High German as tougan and related to the idea of being suitable or useful.

Usage tips

  • Taugen commonly takes zu plus the dative for a purpose, as in zum Schneiden, while für plus the accusative is also possible.

Other meanings

  • be suitableverb
  • be usableverb

Related words

  • tauglichsuitableadjective
  • Untauglichkeitunsuitabilitynoun

Word lists with this word