German Phrase
Die Waschmaschine läuft.
Meaning
This phrase indicates that the washing machine is currently in operation or performing a wash cycle. In German, the verb 'laufen' (to run) is the standard way to describe machinery or processes that are active or functioning. It implies that the task is in progress and has not yet reached completion.
When to use
Use this phrase when providing an update on household chores or explaining the background noise in a home. It is a common everyday expression used among family members or roommates to coordinate laundry tasks.
✦Grammar Breakdown
DieWaschmaschineläuft
Die
The feminine definite article required because 'Waschmaschine' is a feminine noun.
läuft
The third-person singular conjugation of the irregular verb 'laufen', which changes its stem vowel from 'au' to 'äu' in the present tense.
🗨In Conversation
Können wir jetzt einkaufen gehen?
Can we go shopping now?
Warte kurz, die Waschmaschine läuft noch.
Wait a second, the washing machine is still running.
✕Common Mistakes
Die Waschmaschine rennt.
While 'rennen' also means 'to run', it refers to physical sprinting; 'laufen' is the correct term for functioning appliances.
Die Waschmaschine ist arbeitend.
German typically uses the simple present tense to describe ongoing actions rather than the present participle construction used in English.
↔Alternatives
Die Wäsche wird gewaschen.
The laundry is being washed.
Die Maschine ist an.
The machine is on.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, many apartment buildings have strict 'Ruhezeiten' (quiet hours), usually from 10 PM to 7 AM and all day Sunday. Running a washing machine during these times can be considered rude or even a violation of house rules, so people often plan their laundry around these windows.