einsam
Meaning and Usage
The German word "einsam" translates to "lonely" or "solitary" in English. It is used to describe a state of being alone, isolated, or without company.
Linguistic Analysis
The word "einsam" consists of the root "ein" which means "one" and the suffix "-sam" which is used to form adjectives and adverbs in German. The etymology of the word can be traced back to the Old High German "einsamo" and the Middle High German "einsam(e)", both meaning "solitary" or "alone".
Comparisons between German and English
The word "einsam" has a direct equivalent in English, "lonely", which shares similar meanings and usage.
Cultural Context
The concept of loneliness and solitude is universal, but cultural norms regarding social interaction and individualism may influence the perception of being "einsam" in different societies.
Example Sentences
- Sie fühlte sich sehr einsam, nachdem ihre Freunde weggezogen waren. (She felt very lonely after her friends moved away.)
- In der Einsamkeit des Waldes fand er Ruhe und Frieden. (In the solitude of the forest, he found peace and tranquility.)
Memory Tips
Associate "einsam" with the feeling of being "one" or alone.
Additional Vocabulary
- die Einsamkeit (f) / die Alleinheit (f) - loneliness / solitude
- isoliert - isolated
- verlassen - abandoned / forsaken
Gender and Plural
"Einsam" is an adjective and does not have a gender or plural form.
Conjugation
N/A