Fractions (die Hälfte, ein Drittel)

Market Research: Analyzing the Data

Let's look at the results of a recent survey for a new snack.

We did a survey about the new snack.
Wir haben eine Umfrage über den neuen Snack gemacht.

To break down the data and talk about proportions, use fractional numbers (Bruchzahlen).

Forming Fractions in German

Fractional numbers in German are capitalized nouns.

  • die Hälfte (the half) is feminine.
  • For numbers 3 to 19, add -tel to the base number. These are all neuter (das Drittel, das Viertel, das Fünftel).
  • For 20 and higher, add -stel (e.g., das Zwanzigstel).

Use these fractions just like regular nouns. They are often followed by a genitive phrase (like der Leute — "of the people") or a preposition (like davon — "of it").

Half of the people buy it.
Die Hälfte der Leute kauft ihn.
A third eats half of it immediately.
Ein Drittel isst die Hälfte davon sofort.
A fifth finds the taste terrible.
Ein Fünftel findet den Geschmack schrecklich.

Evaluating the Taste

Was the snack too salty or crispy enough? Combine fractions with descriptive adjectives to summarize the consensus of your taste test.

It is admittedly salty, but not crispy.
Er ist zwar salzig, aber nicht knusprig.
Half love the snack, but a third find the taste too salty.
Die Hälfte liebt den Snack, aber ein Drittel findet den Geschmack zu salzig.

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