In German
Kaninchen
Meaning: rabbit
Formal or informal? “Das Kaninchen” is the usual word for a rabbit, especially a pet. “Der Hase” is a hare, which is larger and wild, and is also used informally for rabbits.
Example sentences
DasKaninchenfrisstKarotten.
The rabbit eats carrots.
DerHaseläuftschnellüberdasFeld.
The hare runs fast across the field.
WirhabeneinkleinesKaninchen.
We have a small rabbit.
Grammar note
“Das Kaninchen” is neuter. The plural is “die Kaninchen”, with no change in the word.
Common mistake
Don't use “Hase” for a pet rabbit unless you mean a hare. For a pet or common rabbit, use “das Kaninchen”, and keep “der Hase” for hares.
Quick check
Which German word means a pet or common rabbit?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What is the German for hare?
“Der Hase”.
What is the plural of “Kaninchen”?
“Kaninchen”, with no change.