In German
lila
Meaning: purple
Example sentences
DieBlumeistlila.
The flower is purple.
SieträgteinlilaKleid.
She is wearing a purple dress.
LilaisteineMischungausRotundBlau.
Purple is a mix of red and blue.
Grammar note
“Lila” is common in everyday speech and is often left unchanged before a noun: “ein lila Kleid”. “Violett” is the more technical or formal word.
Common mistake
Don't confuse “lila” with “rosa” (pink). “Lila” is a purple, “rosa” a light pink.
Quick check
Which word means “purple” in everyday German?
More words on this topic
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Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between lila and violett?
“Lila” is everyday; “violett” is the more formal or technical name, often used for the spectrum colour.
Is “purple” used in German?
Sometimes, in fashion or design, but “lila” is the everyday word.