In German
Bruder
Meaning: brother
Formal or informal? “Bruder” is the standard word. Among young people, “Bruder” is also used casually as a friendly address (“Alter!” is more slang).
Example sentences
MeinBruderwohntinBerlin.
My brother lives in Berlin.
HastdueinenBruder?
Do you have a brother?
MeingroßerBruderistLehrer.
My older brother is a teacher.
Grammar note
“Der Bruder” is masculine. Its plural, “Brüder”, takes an umlaut.
Common mistake
Don't confuse “Bruder” with “Bruder” as an informal address to a friend; it works, but it can sound like slang.
Quick check
Which word means “brother”?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What's the plural of Bruder?
“Brüder”, with an umlaut.
What's the German word for a half-brother?
“Halbbruder”, a compound of “halb” (half) and “Bruder”.