die  Kollektion

B2

Estimated CEFR level.

/kɔlɛkˈt͡si̯oːn/

👗 What exactly is a Kollektion?

The word die Kollektion (feminine) refers to a purposefully assembled collection of objects that follow a specific theme, style, or purpose. The term is frequently used in the field of fashion, but also for artworks, stamps, coins, or other collectibles.

• Fashion: A range of clothing items and accessories designed for a specific season (e.g., die Frühjahr/Sommer-Kollektion - the spring/summer collection).
• Art: A collection of artworks by an artist, from an era, or on a theme (e.g., die Kollektion des Museums - the museum's collection).
• General: An assortment or range of related items (e.g., eine Kollektion von Weinen - a collection of wines).

It is always a feminine noun, so the article is always die.

🧐 Grammar in Detail: Die Kollektion

The noun "Kollektion" is feminine. Therefore, the article is always "die". Here are the declension tables:

Singular

Plural

💡 Example Sentences

1. Die neue Kollektion des Designers wurde auf der Modenschau präsentiert.
   (The designer's new collection was presented at the fashion show.)
2. Er besitzt eine beeindruckende Kollektion seltener Briefmarken.
   (He owns an impressive collection of rare stamps.)
3. Die Museumsleitung ist stolz auf ihre wertvolle Kunstkollektion.
   (The museum management is proud of its valuable art collection.)

👠 When to use "Kollektion"?

The term Kollektion is often used more specifically than the more general word "Sammlung" (collection, gathering). While a "Sammlung" can be any kind of accumulation of similar things, a "Kollektion" usually implies a deliberate selection, a thematic coherence, or a commercial purpose.

• Fashion & Design: Here, "Kollektion" is the standard term for seasonal offerings (Herbstkollektion - autumn collection, Schmuckkollektion - jewelry collection).
• Art & Museums: Often refers to the entire inventory or a specific group of works (private Kollektion - private collection, Dauerkollektion - permanent collection).
• Collecting: Can be used for high-quality or thematically focused collections (Münzkollektion - coin collection, Weinkollektion - wine collection).
• Product Ranges: Sometimes used for a series of products (Möbelkollektion - furniture collection, Tapetenkollektion - wallpaper collection).

Compared to "Sammlung", "Kollektion" often sounds more professional, curated, or exclusive.

🧠 Mnemonics and Memory Aids

Remembering the Article: Imagine an elegant lady (feminine -> die) proudly presenting her fashion Kollektion. The ending "-ion" is typical for feminine nouns in German (like die Station, die Nation, die Aktion).

Remembering the Meaning: Think of the English word "collection". The German Kollektion is very similar and means a collection, often with a focus on style and selection.

🔄 Synonyms & Antonyms for Kollektion

⚠️ Similar Words:

• Kollekte: A collection of money for charity, often in church. Do not confuse!

😂 A Little Joke

Fragt der Modedesigner: "Wie findest du meine neue Kollektion?"
Antwortet der Kritiker: "Sehr ... äh ... sammelwürdig!"

(The fashion designer asks: "What do you think of my new collection?"
The critic replies: "Very... uh... collectable!")

✍️ Poem about the Kollektion

Die Nadel tanzt, der Stoff, er fällt,
eine neue Kollektion für die Welt.
Von Seide fein bis grobem Tuch,
die Schau beginnt, Applaus genug.

Im Museum, still und rein,
liegt Kunst aus alter Zeit nun ein.
Die Kollektion, ein wahrer Schatz,
findet hier ihren festen Platz.

(The needle dances, the fabric falls,
a new collection for the world.
From fine silk to coarse cloth,
the show begins, applause enough.)

(In the museum, silent and pure,
lies art from ancient times secure.
The collection, a true treasure,
finds its firm place here at leisure.)

❓ Little Riddle

Ich bin eine Gruppe, sorgsam ausgewählt,
in Mode und Kunst oft vorgestellt.
Mein Artikel ist feminin, das ist klar,
Designer zeigen mich jedes Jahr.

Was bin ich?

(I am a group, carefully selected,
Often presented in fashion and art.
My article is feminine, that's clear,
Designers show me every year.)

(What am I?)
(Solution: die Kollektion)

🌐 Other Information

Word Origin (Etymology):

The word "Kollektion" comes from the Latin word collectio, meaning "collection" or "gathering". It entered German via French (collection).

Compounds (Zusammensetzungen):

Common compound words include Modekollektion (fashion collection), Sommerkollektion (summer collection), Winterkollektion (winter collection), Kunstkollektion (art collection), Briefmarkenkollektion (stamp collection), Münzkollektion (coin collection).