The most common German word for “company” is die Firma. Depending on context, das Unternehmen is also used, especially for a business or enterprise as an organization.
company = die Firma (also das Unternehmen)
Meaning and Pronunciation
Firma is a feminine noun, so it is used with die. It is pronounced approximately FEER-mah, with the stress on the first syllable. Its plural is Firmen.
Meaning: the company, the firm
Firma or Unternehmen?
Firma is the everyday choice for a company or business. Unternehmen can mean a company, business, or enterprise and often emphasizes the organization or business activity. It is neuter: das Unternehmen. For the broader meanings of business, trade, and transactions, compare business in German.
| German | English |
|---|---|
| die Firma | the company / firm |
| das Unternehmen | the company / enterprise |
| die Firmen | the companies / firms |
Useful Phrases
- eine Firma gründen — to start a company
- bei einer Firma arbeiten — to work for a company
- eine internationale Firma — an international company
- ein erfolgreiches Unternehmen — a successful company
Examples
- Sie arbeitet bei einer deutschen Firma. — She works for a German company.
- Die Firma hat hundert Mitarbeiter. — The company has one hundred employees.
- Er möchte sein eigenes Unternehmen gründen. — He wants to start his own company.
Frequently Asked Questions About Company in German
Tap a question below to see the answer.
Is Firma masculine or feminine?
Firma is feminine: die Firma.
What is the plural of Firma?
The plural is Firmen.
Can Unternehmen also mean company?
Yes. Das Unternehmen is another common word for a company or enterprise.
Summary: Company in German
The usual translation of “company” is die Firma (plural Firmen). Das Unternehmen is another common option, especially when referring to a business organization or enterprise.
