German Conversation · Level 161
30 words
German word
Lebenswerk
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈleːbn̩sˌvɛɐ̯k/
Meaning
- neuter nounlife's work
Example
Ihr Lebenswerk beeinflusst noch heute viele Menschen.
Her life's work still influences many people today.
More examples
Viele Kritiker sehen in diesem Gebäude das monumentale Lebenswerk des Architekten.
Many critics see this building as the architect's monumental life's work.
Core concept
A lifetime's body of work gathered under one lasting name.
Common phrases
zu seinem Lebenswerk zählen
be included in his life's work
ein monumentales Lebenswerk
a monumental life's work
im Lebenswerk des Autors
in the author's life's work
Similar words
Lebensleistung: A significant achievement built through years of dedication.
Vermächtnis: What remains valuable or influential after someone is gone.
Werk: One distinct work made or produced by someone.
Schaffen: All the creative or productive work and results produced over time.
Definition in German
Ein Lebenswerk bezeichnet die Summe von Werken und Leistungen, die eine Person während ihres Lebens geschaffen hat und die als ihr bleibendes Werk gelten.
Word origin
Lebenswerk combines Leben, meaning 'life,' with Werk, meaning 'work,' to form a noun for a person's enduring body of work.
Usage tips
- Lebenswerk usually refers to a substantial career-spanning achievement, not just one small task or isolated work.
Other meanings
- magnum opusnoun
Related words
- Lebensaufgabelife's missionnoun
- Lebenswegpath of lifenoun