German word

Rücksicht

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈʁʏkˌzɪçt/

Meaning

  • feminine nounconsideration

Example

Die Rücksicht gegenüber den Nachbarn fehlt oft.

There is often a lack of consideration for the neighbors.

Illustration for Rücksicht (consideration)

More examples

Man sollte Rücksicht auf andere nehmen.

One should show consideration for others.

Core concept

A person pauses at a doorway, notices others nearby, and leaves them room to pass.

Common phrases

  • Rücksicht auf andere nehmen

    show consideration for others

  • mit Rücksicht auf

    with consideration for

  • Rücksicht walten lassen

    show consideration

Similar words

Rücksichtnahme: Acting with awareness of other people's circumstances and feelings.
Höflichkeit: Polite words and behavior that avoid causing offense.
Respekt: Treating another person's presence and opinions as worthy of consideration.
Takt: Careful choice of words and behavior to avoid hurting someone's feelings.

Definition in German

Rücksicht bedeutet, bei eigenen Handlungen mögliche Nachteile für andere zu vermeiden und sich dafür zurückzunehmen.

Word origin

Rücksicht combines rück- ('back') with Sicht ('sight' or 'view'), originally suggesting a backward look that developed into regard for other people.

Usage tips

  • The common pattern is Rücksicht auf plus the accusative, as in Rücksicht auf die Nachbarn nehmen ('show consideration for the neighbors').

Other meanings

  • thoughtfulnessnoun

Opposites

  • Rücksichtslosigkeitinconsideratenessnoun
  • Egoismusselfishnessnoun

Related words

  • rücksichtsvollconsiderateadjective
  • Rücksichtnahmeconsiderationnoun
  • rücksichtslosinconsiderateadjective

Word lists with this word