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
Derived from Old High German 'umbisunst', meaning 'without reward'. Can be broken down into 'um' (for) + 'sonst' (otherwise, else).
Memory Tips
Keep in mind its two main meanings: 'for free' and 'in vain'. Context will tell you which one applies. The English phrase 'for nothing' captures both senses.