The idea
Use langsam for slowly. Use allmählich for gradually, through stages or over time. Read the complete sentence before choosing: the object, situation, time reference and relationship between speakers can determine the better expression. Where the meanings overlap, both can be possible with a different emphasis. The reference table states the senses taught here; other dictionary senses may require a different translation.
| Expression | Meaning compared |
|---|---|
| langsam | „Langsam“ beschreibt ein geringes Tempo. |
| allmählich | „Allmählich“ beschreibt eine schrittweise Entwicklung. |
Examples
- Fahr auf dem schmalen Weg langsam.Drive slowly on the narrow path.
- Allmählich gewöhne ich mich an den neuen Rhythmus.I am gradually getting used to the new rhythm.
- Die alte Uhr geht langsam.The old clock runs slow.
- Am Abend wurde es allmählich ruhiger.In the evening it gradually became quieter.
- Lies die Hausnummer bitte langsam vor.Please read the house number aloud slowly.
- Allmählich erkennen wir ein Muster in den Notizen.Gradually we recognize a pattern in the notes.
Read-aloud uses a synthetic German voice available on your device. Voice quality and availability vary; it does not assess your pronunciation.
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Watch out
Allmählich foregrounds gradual change, not merely low movement speed.
Try it yourself
What does “langsam” mean in the first example sentence? Explain how it differs from the meaning of “allmählich”.
Show answer or example answer
„Langsam“ beschreibt ein geringes Tempo. „Allmählich“ beschreibt eine schrittweise Entwicklung.
langsam matches slowly; the German definition gives the intended sense.
Explain the choice of word in this sentence. What meaning would the other expression have? Allmählich gewöhne ich mich an den neuen Rhythmus.
Show answer or example answer
allmählich: „Allmählich“ beschreibt eine schrittweise Entwicklung.
Allmählich gewöhne ich mich an den neuen Rhythmus. uses allmählich for gradually, through stages or over time. The answer depends on this context, not only on the spelling of the word.
Write a separate sentence for each expression. Use “langsam” and “allmählich” in different situations.
Show answer or example answer
Mögliche Lösungen: Die alte Uhr geht langsam. Am Abend wurde es allmählich ruhiger.
The model pair keeps the meanings separate: langsam expresses slowly, whereas allmählich expresses gradually, through stages or over time. Other original sentences are possible if their context supports the chosen sense.
Practice round
Answer three questions, then rebuild three German sentences. We keep your score.
What does “langsam” mean in the first example sentence? Explain how it differs from the meaning of “allmählich”.
„Langsam“ beschreibt ein geringes Tempo. „Allmählich“ beschreibt eine schrittweise Entwicklung.
Explain the choice of word in this sentence. What meaning would the other expression have? Allmählich gewöhne ich mich an den neuen Rhythmus.
allmählich: „Allmählich“ beschreibt eine schrittweise Entwicklung.
Write a separate sentence for each expression. Use “langsam” and “allmählich” in different situations.
Mögliche Lösungen: Die alte Uhr geht langsam. Am Abend wurde es allmählich ruhiger.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe two real situations from your day, using langsam in one and allmählich in the other. Underline the detail that makes the chosen meaning appropriate. If both expressions could fit, explain the change in emphasis rather than marking the alternative automatically wrong.