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Schlafen ist besser
/ˈʃlaːfn̩ ɪst ˈbɛsɐ/
sleeping is better
Nach der langen Reise ist Schlafen ist besser als Weiterfahren.
After the long trip, sleeping is better than driving on.
neutral
A literal statement emphasizing that sleeping is preferable to an alternative activity in a given context.
Ich bin müde, also ist Schlafen ist besser.
I'm tired, so sleeping is better.
Bei so viel Stress ist Schlafen ist besser als Kaffee trinken.
With so much stress, sleeping is better than drinking coffee.
This phrase is often used in casual conversation to prioritize rest over other activities. It can also imply that someone should stop what they're doing and sleep instead.
Collocations
Schlafen ist besser als...sleeping is better than...
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use this phrase
Use 'Schlafen ist besser' when you want to emphasize the importance of rest in a casual or advisory tone. It’s particularly useful after suggesting an alternative activity that might seem more productive but is less restful.
Gold Rule
Tone and context
This phrase works best in informal settings. Avoid using it in professional emails or with people you don’t know well, as it can come across as too casual or even dismissive.
Word Origin
A straightforward German sentence combining 'Schlafen' (sleeping) and 'ist besser' (is better). The phrase emerged naturally in conversational German as a concise way to express a preference for rest.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts. It can sound abrupt if used in formal settings or with strangers. The tone is typically advisory or self-reflective.
Word Breakdown
Schlafen
sleeping
verb (infinitive)ist
is
verb (3rd person singular present)besser
better
adjective (comparative)Deutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch