German Conversation · Level 16
88 words
German word
zentral
Pronunciation
IPA/tsɛnˈtʁaːl/
Meaning
- adjectivecentral
Example
Er spielt eine zentrale Rolle im Team.
He plays a central role on the team.
More examples
Die zentrale Lage der Wohnung ist ideal für Pendler.
The central location of the apartment is ideal for commuters.
Core concept
A hub sits at the middle of a system, linking its surrounding parts and giving the whole its focus.
Common phrases
zentrale Rolle
central role
zentrale Lage
central location
Similar words
wichtig: Deserving attention because it can influence the outcome.
relevant: Closely related to the matter at hand and needing consideration.
wesentlich: Fundamental to something and therefore not safely omitted.
entscheidend: Determining whether an outcome succeeds or fails.
Definition in German
Für den Erfolg oder Ablauf wesentlich und als Schlüsselfunktion wirksam.
Word origin
German zentral comes through Latin centralis from centrum, ultimately Greek kentron, 'point'; German uses it for location and importance.
Usage tips
- Unlike English central, German zentral takes adjective endings before nouns: eine zentrale Rolle, ein zentraler Punkt, zentrale Fragen.