German Word · Intermediate
Drift
drift, tendency, gradual long-term development
Pronunciation: /dʁɪft/
Meaning
drift, tendency, gradual long-term development
Example
Das Schriftdeutsche zeigt vom 14. bis 16. Jahrhundert eine nach Süden weisende Drift, woran sich danach wiederum eine eher nördliche Formen bevorzugende Drift anschließt.
Literary German shows a southward drift between the 14th and 16th centuries, which is then again followed by a drift favouring more northern forms.
Practice tips
- Practice Drift out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this German word is for intermediate-level learners.