In German
Westen
Meaning: west
Example sentences
DieSonnegehtimWestenunter.
The sun sets in the west.
KölnliegtimWestenDeutschlands.
Cologne is in the west of Germany.
Grammar note
“Der Westen” is masculine, following the same “im Westen” contraction pattern as “im Osten”. Historically, “der Westen” also referred to former West Germany in political contexts.
Common mistake
Don't mix up “Westen” (west) with “Westen” the historical reference without context — in a plain geography sentence it simply means the compass direction.
Quick check
Which German word means “west”?
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Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
How do you say “in the west”?
“Im Westen”, the same contraction pattern as “im Osten”.
Does “Westen” have a historical meaning too?
Yes — it can refer to former West Germany in historical/political contexts, paired with “Osten” for the East.