Unschuld (Innocence)
Definition:
Unschuld is a German noun that translates to “innocence” in English. It refers to the state of being free from guilt, blame, or wrongdoing. Unschuld is often associated with purity, naivety, and a lack of knowledge or experience in regards to immoral or harmful actions.
Opposites:
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Schuld (Guilt): While Unschuld denotes innocence, its opposite, Schuld, refers to guilt or responsibility for a wrongdoing. It represents the state of being at fault or having committed an offense.
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Erfahrenheit (Experience): As Unschuld suggests a lack of knowledge or experience, Erfahrenheit stands as its opposite. Erfahrenheit represents the accumulation of knowledge and expertise gained through life’s lessons and encounters.
Synonyms:
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Reinheit (Purity): Unschuld is often synonymous with Reinheit, meaning purity. Both words imply an absence of contamination, whether it be physical, moral, or spiritual.
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Naivität (Naivety): Unschuld and Naivität share a similar connotation of innocence, indicating a lack of worldly wisdom or skepticism. However, Naivität may sometimes carry a negative implication of being easily deceived or taken advantage of.
Examples:
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Das kleine Mädchen strahlte vor Unschuld und glaubte an das Gute in jedem Menschen. (The little girl radiated innocence and believed in the goodness of every person.)
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Die Anwältin bemühte sich, die Unschuld ihres Mandanten vor Gericht zu beweisen. (The lawyer endeavored to prove her client’s innocence in court.)
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Nachdem sie den Brief gelesen hatte, konnte sie ihre Unschuld nicht leugnen. (After reading the letter, she could not deny her innocence.)
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Sein Gesichtsausdruck verriet Unschuld, als er die gestohlene Süßigkeit versteckte. (His facial expression revealed innocence as he hid the stolen candy.)
Unschuld, a concept deeply rooted in human nature, plays a crucial role in various aspects of life, including law, morality, and personal relationships. Whether it conveys a sense of pureness or represents the absence of guilt, Unschuld emphasizes the significance of moral integrity and the desire to preserve our innate innocence.\ Visit YouGlish.com