umsonst
Translation
for free, gratis, in vain, for nothing
Examples
Der Eintritt ins Museum ist heute umsonst.
Admission to the museum is free today.
All meine Mühe war umsonst.
All my effort was in vain.
Grammar Patterns
sth. is umsonst sth. is for free / in vain The shipping is for free.
Similar Words
Synonyms: gratis, kostenlos; in vain. Antonyms: kostenpflichtig (paid); erfolgreich (successful)
Etymology
From Old High German 'umbisunst', meaning 'without reward'. Can be seen as 'um' (for) + 'sonst' (otherwise, else).
Memory Tips
Remember the two distinct meanings: 'for free' and 'in vain'. The context is crucial. Think 'for nothing' which can mean both 'for no cost' and 'for no result'.