Sehnsucht
Definition
Sehnsucht is a German noun that refers to a deep yearning or longing for something or someone. It is a profound emotion that is often associated with a sense of nostalgia, a feeling of incomplete fulfillment, or a strong desire for a distant or unattainable object or experience.
Opposite
The opposite of Sehnsucht is Zufriedenheit, which means contentment. While Sehnsucht embodies an intense longing or craving, Zufriedenheit conveys a sense of satisfaction and inner peace with one’s current circumstances.
Synonyms
- Fernweh: This noun denotes a strong desire to travel or explore distant and unknown places, often associated with feelings of longing and wanderlust.
- Heimweh: Meaning homesickness, this word reflects the longing one feels for their home or homeland, often intensified when they are away or living in a different environment.
- Melancholie: Exploring a more melancholic aspect, this noun represents a profound and sometimes bittersweet longing for something unattainable or lost, often accompanied by a sense of sadness or pensiveness.
Examples
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Die Sehnsucht nach Zuhause machte mir das Studium im Ausland zuweilen schwer. (The longing for home sometimes made studying abroad challenging for me.)
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Wenn ich an den Ozean denke, verspüre ich eine tiefe Sehnsucht nach Freiheit. (When I think of the ocean, I feel a deep longing for freedom.)
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Nach einer langen Reise empfinde ich eine starke Sehnsucht nach meiner Familie. (After a long trip, I experience a strong longing for my family.)
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Die Sehnsucht nach vergangenen Zeiten ließ ihn ganz in Erinnerungen versinken. (The longing for past times made him completely engrossed in memories.)
In conclusion, Sehnsucht encapsulates the complex emotion of intense longing and yearning. It relates to our desires for distant places, cherished memories, or unattainable dreams. It is a sentiment that has inspired artists, poets, and dreamers throughout history, as it reflects the universal human experience of yearning for something beyond our reach.\ Visit YouGlish.com