German Word · Intermediate
Weltschmerz
causeless sadness, undue self-pity
Pronunciation: /ˈvɛltˌʃmɛʁt͡s/
Meaning
causeless sadness, undue self-pity
Example
Mein Weltschmerz entspringt aus dem Vergleich zwischen dem Guten, das der Mensch wirken kann, und dem Bösen, das er zu wirken pflegt.
My weltschmerz originates from a comparison between the good that man can do, and the evil that he is in the habit of doing.
Practice tips
- Practice Weltschmerz out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this German word is for intermediate-level learners.