German Phrase
Ich gieße sie jetzt.
Meaning
This phrase describes the act of watering something, most commonly plants or flowers, at the current moment. The verb 'gießen' literally means 'to pour,' but in this context, it specifically refers to providing water to vegetation.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are about to start or are currently watering your plants. It is a common response if someone mentions that the soil looks dry or asks about your daily chores.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ichgießesiejetzt
Gießen
This is the first-person singular present tense of the verb 'gießen', which means to pour or to water.
Accusative Pronoun
'sie' acts as the direct object in the accusative case, here referring to a plural noun like 'die Blumen' (the flowers).
🗨In Conversation
Die Blumen auf dem Balkon sehen etwas welk aus.
The flowers on the balcony look a bit wilted.
Oh, du hast recht. Ich gieße sie jetzt.
Oh, you're right. I'm watering them now.
✕Common Mistakes
Ich gieße ihnen jetzt.
The verb 'gießen' takes an accusative object ('sie'), not a dative one ('ihnen'), when referring to the plants being watered.
Ich gieße es jetzt.
Use 'sie' for plural plants; 'es' would only be used if referring to a single neuter noun like 'das Beet' (the flower bed).
↔Alternatives
Ich wässere die Pflanzen.
I am watering the plants.
Die Blumen brauchen Wasser.
The flowers need water.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, gardening and plant care are popular hobbies, even in city apartments with small balconies. It is quite common to see 'Gießkannen' (watering cans) on balconies, and neighbors often help each other by watering plants while someone is on vacation.