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Searching the online Dictionary

1. Umlauts and other diacritics like é, à, û, etc., can be entered as e, a, u. If the Online Dictionary cannot find an exact match it will present a word spelled similarly, e.g. Mowe —> Möwe.
2. You can also search directly for typical word combinations (e.g. to meet a deadline), whole phrases (e.g. windows of the soul), and idiomatic expressions (e.g. to give sb the bird).
3. A search for words spelled according to the former German rules applies the new rules to the listed matches.
4. When an inflected headword is entered the matching headword is listed in the uninflected form.
5. Matching words belonging to more than one word category (noun, verb, etc.) are listed under two (or more) Roman numbers as in the printed dictionary.
6. Matching words with more than one meaning are listed under two (or more) Arabic numbers as in the printed dictionary.
7. When the matching word is spelled identically in both languages it is listed in both languages, e.g. Bank (match in German), bank (match in English). A so called branch label (Jump to …) lets you switch between the two match blocks.
8. The matches use conventional abbreviations like “jdn ” for jemanden, “sth” for something, “etw” for etwas, etc.

•    Blue words

A word highlighted in blue is the search word and is listed in both the uninflected and inflected forms.

•    Grey, brown, and green words

Words highlighted in these colours represent additional grammatical, morphological (brown), syntactic, syntagmatic (green), and stylistic (grey) details. The corresponding abbreviations also point out regional usage.

•    Show/‌hide examples in all entries

Clicking this button hides/‌shows example sentences. You can show and hide the example sentences for every single (matching) headword or globally for all matches (via the search facility).

•    Changing the target language

On the left under the search entry mask you will find a selection bar where you can choose a language.

•    Mouseover effect

Moving and holding the mouse pointer over certain elements on the screen causes a small info box to appear containing an explanation (tool tip).

•    Feedback form

Please use our feedback form (the letter icon in every entry) to report an actual error in the PONS dictionary entry.

•    Criticism, comments, and ideas

You can send us your comments, ideas, and criticism by email . We look forward to your feedback!

•    What is the OpenDict?

The Open Dictionary (OpenDict) is that part of the Online Dictionary that can be added to by our visitors. You can add new entries or supplement existing entries directly in the Online Dictionary when for instance you cannot find a translation or you think it should be included. For more details see the general tips on how to add to the PONS Online Dictionary

•    How do I create a new entry in the Online Dictionary?

You can add a new entry to the Dictionary when you have logged on as a registered user.

Then you can click the button “Create new entry” (under a dictionary entry) to add to an existing OpenDict entry.

For more details see the instructions for new OpenDict authors.

•    Who can create a new entry?

Every logged on user can create an entry in the OpenDict.

•    What do I do when I’ve forgotten my password?

If you have forgotten your password simply click “Forgotten password" on the login page, and your password will be sent to your email address.

•    How do I find my entry?

All registered users receive their own business card.

When you contribute a translation to the Dictionary this will appear on your business card with the related subject area, if any.

The more words you contribute, the more visitors will see your strengths on your business card.

You and your visitors can find the translations you contribute on your business card under “My OpenDict entries”.

Also you will find your entry in the Dictionary directly next to the headword for which you created the entry. The versions of an OpenDict entry can be viewed under “Authors & versions”.

•    Can I change or delete entries?

Every PONS entry can be supplemented with an OpenDict entry. In turn the OpenDict entry can be expanded by other users. Any entries violating the terms and conditions of use will be deleted by PONS.

•    How can I send PONS feedback on a PONS dictionary entry? (green dictionary section)

Please use our feedback form. Simply click the small envelope icon  displayed above every dictionary entry.

Here you can also report an actual error in a dictionary entry as well as any abuse in the OpenDict. We investigate every reported instance without delay.

•    Can I delete entries in the OpenDict?

No, but you can create a new entry in the OpenDict which will then apply as a new version. If you think an entry is total nonsense you can also click the Trash icon , which recommends the PONS editorial department to delete the whole entry.

•    Who examines the entries?

New entries are examined one by one by the PONS editorial department.