Das Tier

Das Tier (German for "the animal") is a neuter noun in the German language, meaning any non-human animal. It encompasses a broad range of creatures, from insects and invertebrates to mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish.

Grammatical Information:

• Gender: Neuter (das)
• Declension Class: Strong
• Plural: Die Tiere (the animals)
• Genitive: Des Tieres

Semantic Range:

The term "Tier" is a general classification term. While it often carries a neutral connotation, it can sometimes be used in a derogatory way towards humans, implying base or animalistic behavior. Context is crucial in determining the intended meaning.

Related Terms:

• Tierart: Animal species
• Tierreich: Animal kingdom
• Tierhaltung: Animal husbandry
• Tierliebe: Love of animals
• Tierquälerei: Animal cruelty

Contrast with "Mensch":

"Tier" stands in direct contrast to "Mensch" (human being). In many contexts, these two terms represent a fundamental distinction between the animal and human worlds.