German word

Sozialamt

Pronunciation

IPA/zoˈtsi̯aːlˌamt/

Meaning

  • neuter nounsocial welfare office

Example

Das Sozialamt hilft Familien in Not.

The social welfare office helps families in need.

Illustration for Sozialamt (social welfare office)

More examples

Er musste Unterlagen für das Sozialamt zusammenstellen.

He had to put together documents for the social welfare office.

Core concept

An official welfare counter for families and individuals who need material assistance or advice about social benefits.

Common phrases

  • eine Anfrage an das Sozialamt richten

    direct an inquiry to the social welfare office

  • einen Brief an das Sozialamt schreiben

    write a letter to the social welfare office

Similar words

Jobcenter: A public agency offering financial support and employment services to jobseekers.
Agentur für Arbeit: A government agency arranging unemployment benefits and helping people find jobs.
Jugendamt: A local government service supporting children and families and protecting their welfare.
Sozialhilfe: A public cash payment for people who lack enough money for basic living costs.

Definition in German

Amt der öffentlichen Verwaltung, das Leistungen für bedürftige Personen bereitstellt und sozialrechtliche Fragen bearbeitet.

Word origin

Sozialamt is formed transparently from "sozial" and "Amt," naming an administrative office responsible for social support.

Usage tips

  • The term is administrative and specific, while English "social services" can refer more broadly to agencies, programs, or professional support.

Related words

  • SozialgesetzbuchSocial Codenoun
  • Sozialstaatwelfare statenoun

Word lists with this word