German word

human

Pronunciation

IPA/huˈmaːn/

Meaning

  • adjectivehumane

Example

Wir suchten nach einer humanen Lösung für das Problem.

We were looking for a humane solution to the problem.

Illustration for human (humane)

More examples

Ein humaner Umgang mit Geflüchteten ist wichtig.

Humane treatment of refugees is important.

Core concept

A hospital policy eases suffering while preserving every person's dignity and fair treatment.

Common phrases

  • humaner Umgang

    humane treatment

  • humane Maßnahmen

    humane measures

  • humane Bedingungen

    humane conditions

Similar words

humanitär: Prioritizing relief and protection for people affected by war or disaster.
menschenwürdig: Ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and respect.
menschlich: Marked by sympathy, kindness, and understanding toward others.
mitmenschlich: Expressing care for others through practical support and solidarity.

Definition in German

rücksichtsvoll gegenüber Leid und Not; auf gerechte und menschliche Behandlung bedacht.

Word origin

German human comes from Latin humanus, related to English human, and developed the ethical sense of humane treatment.

Usage tips

  • German human usually means humane or compassionate, whereas the basic English adjective human is usually menschlich in German.

Other meanings

  • humanadjective
  • compassionateadjective

Opposites

  • unmenschlichinhumaneadjective
  • gefühlloscallousadjective

Related words

  • humanitärhumanitarianadjective
  • Humanismushumanismnoun

Word lists with this word