preposition
opposite, across from
A2
Gegenüber is a German preposition meaning 'opposite' or 'across from'. It usually governs the dative (e.g., gegenüber dem Haus). In colloquial German it can appear after the noun (das Haus gegenüber). Use for physical opposition or relative location; often contrasts two entities.
Examples
Das Café lag gegenüber dem Bahnhof, obwohl viele Reisende es nicht bemerkten.
The café was located opposite the station, although many travelers did not notice it.
Das Café liegt gegenüber dem Bahnhof.
The café is opposite the station.
Sie sitzt mir gegenüber.
She is sitting across from me.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture two buildings facing each other — one is gegenüber (opposite) the other
Sounds like 'gay-noo-bear' — imagine a bear standing opposite you
Notes
Governs the dative case (e.g., gegenüber dem Haus). Used often in spoken and written German.