der Erwachsene, -n

Meaning and Usage

"Der Erwachsene" is a German noun that translates to "adult" in English. It refers to a person who has reached the age of maturity and is no longer a child.

Linguistic Analysis

The word "Erwachsene" is a compound noun formed by the prefix "er-" meaning "fully" or "completely" and the noun "Wachse" which comes from the verb "wachsen" meaning "to grow." The plural form of "Erwachsene" is "Erwachsene," with no change in the article.

Comparisons between German and English

The word "Erwachsene" has a similar meaning and usage in German as the word "adult" in English.

Cultural Context

In German-speaking countries, there are cultural differences in the way adults are perceived and treated compared to children. Understanding the concept of "Erwachsene" is essential for understanding cultural norms and interactions.

Example Sentences

  1. Die Erwachsenen dürfen nicht vergessen, dass sie Vorbilder für die Kinder sind. (The adults must not forget that they are role models for the children.)

  2. Erwachsene müssen Verantwortung für ihre Handlungen übernehmen. (Adults must take responsibility for their actions.)

Memory Tips

To remember the word "der Erwachsene," think of the prefix "er-" indicating completeness, and the idea of "wachsen" meaning to grow, emphasizing the complete growth into an adult.

Additional Vocabulary

  • die Kindheit (childhood)
  • das Kind (child)
  • jugendlich (youthful)

Gender and Plural (for nouns)

  • der Erwachsene (masculine), die Erwachsene (feminine), das Erwachsene (neutral)
  • Plural: die Erwachsenen

Conjugation (for verbs)

N/A (der Erwachsene is a noun)