In German
Freund
Meaning: friend
Formal or informal? “Freund” covers both friends and boyfriends. For a female friend use “Freundin”, and for an acquaintance use “Bekannter”.
Example sentences
EristmeinbesterFreund.
He is my best friend.
MeineFreundinwohntinBerlin.
My (female) friend lives in Berlin.
WirsindguteFreundeseitderSchule.
We have been good friends since school.
Grammar note
“Der Freund” is masculine, so “ein Freund” and “der Freund” are the forms to learn. Its female form “die Freundin” takes the same root with the suffix “-in”.
Common mistake
Don't use “Freund” for a female friend. Say “Freundin”, otherwise the gender of the friend is wrong.
Quick check
Which German word means “friend” for a man?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What is the female form of “Freund”?
“Freundin”, which is also used for a girlfriend.
What is the difference between “Freund” and “Bekannter”?
“Freund” is a close friend, while “Bekannter” is someone you know but aren't close to.