das  Textfeld

B2

Estimated CEFR level.

/ˈtɛkstˌfɛlt/

⌨️ What exactly is a Textfeld?

A Textfeld (article: das) refers to an element of a graphical user interface (GUI) used for text input by the user. It's typically found in forms on websites, in software applications, or operating systems.

Essentially, it's a rectangular area where you can type letters, numbers, or symbols, for example, to enter a name, an email address, or a search query.

Since 'Feld' (field) in German is neuter (das Feld), the compound word 'Textfeld' is also neuter: das Textfeld.

📊 Grammar of 'das Textfeld' in Detail

The noun 'Textfeld' is neuter. Here is its declension:

📝 Example Sentences

1. Bitte geben Sie Ihren Namen in das Textfeld ein.
   Please enter your name into the text field.
2. Das Textfeld für die Suche befindet sich oben rechts.
   The text field for the search is located top right.
3. Die Webseite enthält mehrere Textfelder zur Dateneingabe.
   The website contains several text fields for data entry.
4. Der Cursor blinkt im aktiven Textfeld.
   The cursor is blinking in the active text field.

🖱️ When and how to use 'Textfeld'?

The term 'das Textfeld' is used almost exclusively in the context of computers, software, and the internet.

• Forms: The most common application is in online forms (contact forms, registrations, orders).
• Software: In programs, it's used for inputting data, settings, or commands.
• Search Engines: The search bar is a classic example of a Textfeld.
• Programming/Web Design: Developers use the term when discussing UI elements (e.g., `` in HTML).

It's a very specific technical term from IT and UI/UX design. It's rarely used in general conversation outside this context. Alternatively, people sometimes say Eingabefeld (input field).

💡 Mnemonics to Remember

Article Aid: Think of das Feld (the field, neuter). A field on the screen where you write text is das Textfeld. A neutral space = a neutral article.

Meaning Aid: Imagine typing Text into a little Feld (field) on your computer. Text + Feld = Textfeld.

🔄 Similar and Opposite Terms

Synonyms

• Eingabefeld: Very often used synonymously, emphasizing the input function (input field).
• Feld: Often used as a short form when the context is clear (e.g., "Trag das mal ins Feld ein." - "Just enter it into the field.").
• Textbereich (Textarea): Often refers to a multi-line text field.

Related Terms (not direct antonyms)

• Schaltfläche / Button: Triggers an action, no text input.
• Dropdown-Liste / Auswahlliste: Allows selection from predefined options (dropdown list / selection list).
• Checkbox / Kontrollkästchen: For selecting/deselecting an option.
• Radiobutton / Optionsfeld: For selecting one option from a group.

A direct antonym doesn't really exist, as 'Textfeld' describes a specific UI element. One might consider 'nicht-interaktives Element' (non-interactive element) or 'Anzeigebereich' (display area) as conceptual opposites.

😂 A Little Joke

Warum war das Textfeld so gestresst?

Weil es ständig unter Eingabedruck stand! 😉

Why was the text field so stressed?
Because it was constantly under input pressure! (Pun: Eingabedruck sounds like 'input pressure' and 'pressure to input') 😉

✍️ A Poem about the Textfeld

Ein Kästchen klein und leer,
wartet auf Zeichen sehr.
Buchstaben, Zahlen, bunt gemischt,
was man halt so im Textfeld erwischt.
Klick hinein, die Tastatur erwacht,
was wird wohl als Nächstes eingebracht?

A little box, small and bare,
Waits for characters with great care.
Letters, numbers, a colorful mix,
Whatever one catches in the Textfeld's tricks.
Click inside, the keyboard awakes,
What will be entered next, for goodness sakes?

❓ Riddle Time

Ich habe keinen Mund, doch du kannst mir viel erzählen.
Ich habe keinen Stift, doch Buchstaben musst du wählen.
Auf Webseiten und in Apps bin ich oft zu sehn,
um Namen, Suchbegriffe oder Codes einzugehn.

Was bin ich?

I have no mouth, but you can tell me much.
I have no pen, but letters you must clutch.
On websites and in apps, I'm often seen,
For names, search terms, or codes to convene.

What am I?

Solution: das Textfeld (the text field)

🧩 A Few More Details

Word Composition

The word 'Textfeld' is a compound noun, composed of:

• Der Text: Text - A sequence of written or spoken words.
• Das Feld: Field - Here in the sense of a defined area or space (like a field in a database or on a user interface).

Since the second part of the compound ('das Feld') is neuter, it determines the gender of the entire word: das Textfeld.

Trivia

Textfelder (text fields) are one of the most fundamental and frequently used elements in graphical user interfaces, second perhaps only to buttons (Schaltflächen).