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die Karriere

A2 noun #1,500 가장 일반적인 14분 분량

die Karriere

상위 1,500

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn German. You learn words for jobs, like 'der Lehrer' (the teacher) or 'die Ärztin' (the doctor). The word 'die Karriere' means 'the career'. It is a noun, and it is feminine, so we use 'die'. A career is the path of your jobs over a long time. When you work hard and get better jobs, you have a good career. In German, we say 'Karriere machen'. This means 'to make a career'. You can say: 'Ich möchte Karriere machen.' This means 'I want to make a career.' It is a very useful word when you talk about your future. You do not need to know complicated grammar yet. Just remember that 'die Karriere' is about your work life. You can also ask other people: 'Ist dir deine Karriere wichtig?' (Is your career important to you?). This is a good question to ask when you meet new people and talk about work. Remember that a 'Job' is just one work, but a 'Karriere' is many jobs and getting better at them. Practice saying 'die Karriere' with a long 'e' sound in the middle. It sounds like 'ka-RRIE-re'. When you write a simple text about yourself, you can write: 'Mein Name ist Anna. Ich arbeite als Managerin. Ich mache Karriere.' This shows you know how to use the word in a simple, correct way. Keep practicing these basic sentences, and you will soon be able to talk more about your work and your dreams for the future.

At the A2 level, you can talk more about your plans and your past. The word 'die Karriere' is very important when you talk about your professional life. You know that it is a feminine noun: die Karriere. The plural is 'die Karrieren'. You can use it with adjectives to describe it better. For example, 'eine gute Karriere' (a good career) or 'eine schnelle Karriere' (a fast career). You also learn to use prepositions. If you want to say 'a career in music', you say 'eine Karriere in der Musik'. Notice that we use 'in' with the dative case here ('der Musik' because Musik is feminine). You can also use the past tense. 'Er hat Karriere gemacht' means 'He made a career'. This is the Perfekt tense, which you use a lot in spoken German. When you read simple job advertisements or articles about people, you will see this word often. You might read: 'Sie sucht neue Chancen für ihre Karriere.' (She is looking for new chances for her career). It is also important to know the difference between 'Beruf' and 'Karriere'. 'Beruf' is your profession, what you learned to do. 'Karriere' is how you move up and become successful in your profession. So, you can have the 'Beruf' of a cook, and you can make a 'Karriere' by becoming a head chef in a big restaurant. Practice writing short paragraphs about what you want to do in the future. 'Nach dem Studium möchte ich in einer großen Firma arbeiten und Karriere machen.' (After my studies, I want to work in a big company and make a career.) This shows you can connect ideas and use the vocabulary correctly.

At the B1 level, you are able to express your opinions and discuss more complex topics. 'Die Karriere' becomes a central word when discussing work-life balance, future aspirations, and societal trends. You can now use it in subordinate clauses with 'weil' (because) or 'dass' (that). For example: 'Ich arbeite viel, weil ich Karriere machen will.' (I work a lot because I want to make a career.) Or: 'Es ist wichtig, dass man eine gute Karriere hat.' (It is important that one has a good career.) You will also encounter many compound nouns at this stage. Words like 'Karrierechancen' (career opportunities), 'Karriereleiter' (career ladder), and 'Karriereplanung' (career planning) are very common in B1 reading texts and listening exercises. You should be able to discuss the pros and cons of focusing too much on a career. 'Manche Leute denken nur an ihre Karriere und vergessen ihre Familie.' (Some people only think about their career and forget their family.) This shows you can talk about the negative aspects as well. You also learn to use different verbs with 'Karriere'. Instead of just 'machen', you can use 'anstreben' (to strive for) or 'aufgeben' (to give up). 'Sie hat ihre Karriere für die Kinder aufgegeben.' (She gave up her career for the children.) Understanding these nuances helps you sound much more natural. When preparing for a B1 exam, you might have to write a letter applying for a job or a forum post about work. Using 'die Karriere' and its related compounds correctly will definitely impress the examiners and show that you have a solid grasp of essential business vocabulary.

At the B2 level, your vocabulary needs to be precise and varied. You are no longer just talking about basic jobs; you are discussing professional development, corporate structures, and economic conditions. 'Die Karriere' is used in sophisticated contexts. You should be comfortable using advanced collocations such as 'eine steile Karriere hinlegen' (to have a meteoric career) or 'der Karriere einen Schub geben' (to give the career a boost). You will read articles in newspapers like the Süddeutsche Zeitung where terms like 'Karriereknick' (career slump) or 'Karrieresprung' (career leap) are used to analyze someone's professional trajectory. At this level, you must distinguish clearly between synonyms like 'Laufbahn', 'Werdegang', and 'Karriere'. You know that 'Werdegang' is used retrospectively in a resume, while 'Karriere' implies ambition and forward momentum. You can debate complex topics such as the gender pay gap and how it affects the 'Karriere' of women compared to men. 'Frauen stoßen oft an eine gläserne Decke, die ihre Karriere behindert.' (Women often hit a glass ceiling that hinders their career.) You are also expected to understand and use passive constructions and subjunctive II (Konjunktiv II) in this context. 'Wenn er fleißiger wäre, hätte er eine bessere Karriere gemacht.' (If he had been more diligent, he would have had a better career.) In a professional setting, such as a job interview or a formal presentation, you can articulate your long-term goals using this vocabulary fluently. Mastery of 'die Karriere' at the B2 level means you can navigate the German business world linguistically and culturally.

At the C1 level, you are dealing with implicit meanings, complex texts, and highly nuanced discussions. 'Die Karriere' is a concept that you analyze critically. You explore the sociological and psychological dimensions of careerism. You discuss terms like 'Mosaikkarriere' (mosaic career) or 'Patchwork-Karriere', which reflect modern, non-linear professional paths. You are comfortable reading academic papers or deep-dive journalistic pieces that critique the traditional 'Karriereleiter' (career ladder) in favor of flat hierarchies (flache Hierarchien). You can eloquently debate the philosophical difference between a 'Karriere' (driven by external success and money) and a 'Berufung' (a true calling driven by passion and purpose). 'Für viele Millennials ist die Sinnhaftigkeit der Arbeit wichtiger als die klassische Karriere.' (For many millennials, the meaningfulness of work is more important than the classic career.) You use sophisticated verbs and prepositions seamlessly. 'Er hat seine Karriere auf Kosten seiner Gesundheit vorangetrieben.' (He advanced his career at the expense of his health.) You understand idiomatic expressions and metaphors related to professional life. You can write formal essays, reports, and proposals where you evaluate 'Karriereaussichten' (career prospects) based on macroeconomic trends. Your use of the word is natural, varied, and contextually perfect. You recognize the subtle irony when someone is described as a 'Karrierejäger' (career hunter/climber) and can employ such terms to express a critical stance. At C1, 'die Karriere' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a lens through which you examine modern society, economics, and individual identity in the German-speaking world.

At the C2 level, your command of the language is near-native. You understand the historical evolution of the word 'Karriere' from its origins in the French 'carrière' (a chariot course) to its modern implications of relentless professional pursuit. You can deconstruct the discourse around 'Karriere' in contemporary German literature, politics, and sociology. You are adept at using highly specialized terminology and rhetorical devices. You might discuss the 'Karriere' of a concept or a political movement, extending the word's usage beyond individual professional lives to abstract entities. 'Die Karriere dieses Begriffs in der philosophischen Debatte ist bemerkenswert.' (The career of this term in the philosophical debate is remarkable.) You can effortlessly navigate discussions about the 'Vereinbarkeit von Familie und Karriere' (compatibility of family and career) using the most sophisticated syntactic structures, including complex participial attributes and nominalizations. You understand regional nuances and how the concept of 'Karriere' might be viewed differently in a startup hub like Berlin compared to a traditional banking center like Frankfurt or a conservative Swiss canton. You can play with the word, creating spontaneous compounds or using it ironically. Your writing is characterized by absolute precision, and you never confuse 'Karriere' with 'Laufbahn' or 'Werdegang', choosing the exact word that fits the stylistic and pragmatic requirements of your text. At this level of mastery, you are fully equipped to participate in the highest levels of academic, professional, and cultural discourse in the German language.

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

die Karriere 30초 만에

Refers to a person's long-term professional journey.
Always used with the verb 'machen' (Karriere machen).
Distinct from 'Job' (single task) or 'Beruf' (profession).
Feminine noun (die Karriere), plural is 'die Karrieren'.

The German noun 'die Karriere' is a fascinating linguistic artifact that encapsulates the modern professional journey. When we delve into the etymological roots of this word, we discover that it originates from the French word 'carrière', which in turn comes from the Old Occitan 'carriera', meaning a street or a road for vehicles. This historical context is crucial for understanding how the concept of a career is perceived in the German-speaking world today. It is not merely a job or a series of random employment opportunities; rather, it is a deliberate, structured, and often challenging path that one navigates over the course of a lifetime.

Core Meaning: The progression and development of one's professional life, often implying upward mobility and success.

In contemporary German society, the pursuit of a 'Karriere' is often associated with ambition, dedication, and a strategic approach to professional development. The dual education system in Germany, known as the 'Duales System', plays a significant role in shaping these career paths from an early age. Young adults often choose between academic studies at a university and vocational training, both of which can lead to a highly successful and fulfilling professional life.

Sie hat eine steile Karriere in der IT-Branche gemacht.

It is important to note that the word is exclusively feminine, meaning it is always preceded by the definite article 'die' in the nominative and accusative cases. When discussing one's professional trajectory, you will frequently encounter this term in various contexts, ranging from casual conversations among friends to formal performance reviews in corporate environments. The concept of 'Karriere machen' (to make a career) is a common collocation that signifies climbing the corporate ladder or achieving significant success in one's chosen field. However, the modern interpretation of this concept is also evolving rapidly. With the rise of the gig economy, remote work, and a growing emphasis on work-life balance, the traditional linear career path is being redefined.

Modern Context: Today, a career can be non-linear, focusing on personal growth and flexibility rather than just climbing the corporate ladder.

Many professionals now seek a path that offers flexibility, purpose, and personal fulfillment, rather than just financial reward or status. This shift in mindset is reflected in the language, with terms like 'Mosaikkarriere' (mosaic career) or 'Patchwork-Karriere' emerging to describe non-traditional professional journeys.

Für ihn ist die Familie wichtiger als die Karriere.

Furthermore, the discussion around professional advancement often intersects with broader societal issues, such as gender equality and diversity in the workplace. The 'gläserne Decke' (glass ceiling) remains a pertinent topic when analyzing the progression of women and minority groups in Germany. Despite these challenges, the pursuit of professional success remains a central pillar of adult life, shaping identities, routines, and aspirations. Understanding the nuances of this word is therefore essential for anyone looking to integrate into the German labor market or simply engage in meaningful conversations about work and ambition.

Societal Impact: Career choices heavily influence social standing, financial stability, and personal identity in DACH regions.

By mastering the usage of 'die Karriere', learners of German can articulate their professional goals, discuss their past experiences, and navigate the complex landscape of the modern workplace with confidence and precision.

Er plant seine Karriere sehr sorgfältig.

Whether you are aiming for a leadership position in a multinational corporation, starting your own business, or pursuing a creative endeavor, your professional journey is a unique and deeply personal narrative that unfolds over time.

Eine internationale Karriere erfordert oft viele Umzüge.

Nach der Babypause startete sie ihre Karriere neu.

In conclusion, the word is much more than a simple translation of 'career'; it is a cultural touchstone that reflects the values, structures, and evolving dynamics of the German-speaking working world.

Understanding how to use 'die Karriere' correctly involves mastering its grammatical properties, common collocations, and the specific verbs and prepositions that accompany it. Grammatically, it is a feminine noun, which means it takes the articles 'die' (nominative/accusative), 'der' (dative/genitive), and 'eine' (indefinite). The plural form is 'die Karrieren', which is formed by adding an '-n' to the singular form.

Grammar Basics: Feminine noun: die Karriere. Plural: die Karrieren. Genitive: der Karriere.

When constructing sentences, the most frequent and important verb to pair with this noun is 'machen' (to make/do). The phrase 'Karriere machen' is the standard way to express 'to have a career' or 'to climb the career ladder' in German. It implies active effort and success.

Viele junge Menschen wollen schnell Karriere machen.

However, 'machen' is not the only verb used. You can also 'eine Karriere anstreben' (to strive for a career), 'eine Karriere aufbauen' (to build a career), or 'eine Karriere beenden' (to end a career). Prepositions also play a crucial role in how the word is deployed in sentences. If you want to talk about someone's career in a specific field, you use the preposition 'in' followed by the dative case. For example, 'eine Karriere in der Politik' (a career in politics) or 'eine Karriere im Management' (a career in management).

Prepositional Usage: Use 'in + dative' to specify the field: in der Wissenschaft, in der Kunst, im Sport.

When discussing the sacrifices or actions taken for the sake of one's professional advancement, the preposition 'für' (for) is used with the accusative case: 'Er hat alles für seine Karriere geopfert' (He sacrificed everything for his career).

Sie hat viel Zeit in ihre Karriere investiert.

Another common construction involves the preposition 'als' (as) to denote the specific role or profession: 'Ihre Karriere als Ärztin begann früh' (Her career as a doctor began early). It is also highly common to form compound nouns with 'Karriere'. German is famous for its compound words, and this noun is a highly productive element. Words like 'Karriereleiter' (career ladder), 'Karrierechance' (career opportunity), 'Karrieresprung' (career leap), and 'Karriereplanung' (career planning) are ubiquitous in business German.

Compound Nouns: Combine 'Karriere' with other nouns to create specific business terms, e.g., Karrieremesse (career fair).

Understanding these compounds will significantly boost your comprehension of job advertisements and professional literature.

Der nächste Schritt auf der Karriereleiter ist die Abteilungsleitung.

In spoken German, the pronunciation places the stress on the second syllable: [kaˈʁi̯eːʁə]. The 'r' sounds are typically pronounced as a uvular fricative or trill, depending on the regional dialect, and the final 'e' is a schwa sound. When writing formal emails or cover letters (Bewerbungsschreiben), using the word correctly demonstrates a high level of proficiency. Instead of simply saying 'Ich suche einen Job' (I am looking for a job), a more sophisticated applicant might write 'Ich suche eine neue Herausforderung für meine berufliche Karriere' (I am looking for a new challenge for my professional career).

Ihre akademische Karriere ist beeindruckend.

Er musste seine sportliche Karriere wegen einer Verletzung beenden.

By integrating these grammatical structures, collocations, and compounds into your active vocabulary, you will be well-equipped to discuss professional ambitions, evaluate job opportunities, and navigate the German-speaking business world with fluency and confidence.

The word 'die Karriere' is omnipresent in modern German society, echoing through various spheres of public and private life. You will most frequently encounter it in professional environments, educational institutions, and media discussions regarding the economy and labor market. In the corporate world, it is a staple of HR (Personalabteilung) vocabulary. During job interviews (Vorstellungsgespräche), candidates are routinely asked about their 'Karriereziele' (career goals) or how a particular position aligns with their long-term 'Karriereplanung' (career planning).

Corporate Settings: Used in performance reviews, job interviews, and networking events to discuss professional trajectories.

Managers and employees discuss 'Karrierechancen' (career opportunities) during annual performance reviews (Mitarbeitergespräche).

Wir bieten hervorragende Karrierechancen für Absolventen.

Beyond the office walls, the term is highly visible on professional networking platforms. In the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), platforms like LinkedIn and Xing are central hubs for 'Karrierenetzwerke' (career networking). Users update their profiles to showcase their 'Karrierestationen' (career milestones) and connect with headhunters offering new 'Karrieresprünge' (career leaps). Educational institutions are another primary domain where the word is frequently used. Universities host 'Karrieremessen' (career fairs) where students can meet potential employers. Career centers (Karrierezentren) at universities offer counseling to help students transition from academia to the workforce.

Education: Universities and vocational schools use the term to guide students toward their future professions.

Even in secondary schools, students receive 'Berufs- und Karriereberatung' (vocational and career counseling) to help them decide whether to pursue an apprenticeship (Ausbildung) or a university degree (Studium).

Die Universität veranstaltet morgen eine große Karrieremesse.

In the media, 'die Karriere' is a frequent topic in business sections of newspapers like the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung or Handelsblatt. Articles analyze the 'Karrieren' of successful CEOs, politicians, or athletes. Talk shows often debate the balance between 'Karriere und Familie' (career and family), reflecting ongoing societal discussions about childcare, parental leave (Elternzeit), and gender equality.

Media & Society: Frequently discussed in the context of work-life balance, gender equality, and economic success.

The term is also prevalent in pop culture, appearing in song lyrics, movie dialogues, and literature, often symbolizing ambition, sacrifice, or the pursuit of the 'German Dream'.

Der Film erzählt die Geschichte ihrer musikalischen Karriere.

Furthermore, in everyday conversations among friends and family, asking 'Wie läuft die Karriere?' (How is the career going?) is a common, albeit slightly formal, way to inquire about someone's professional life.

Er hat seine Karriere für seine Kinder auf Eis gelegt.

Sie träumt von einer Karriere in Hollywood.

Whether you are reading a job posting, attending a networking event, or simply chatting over coffee, 'die Karriere' is a word that continuously shapes the narrative of modern adult life in German-speaking countries.

When learning and using the word 'die Karriere', non-native speakers often encounter several pitfalls that can lead to misunderstandings or sound unnatural to native ears. One of the most frequent mistakes is confusing 'Karriere' with 'Beruf' (profession) or 'Job' (job). While these words are related, they are not interchangeable. 'Der Job' refers to a specific position or task you do to earn money, often without long-term progression in mind. 'Der Beruf' is your learned profession or vocation, such as being a teacher or a carpenter. 'Die Karriere', on the other hand, refers to the overarching trajectory and advancement within your professional life.

Vocabulary Confusion: Do not use 'Karriere' when you simply mean 'Job' (a single employment position) or 'Beruf' (your trained profession).

Saying 'Ich habe eine neue Karriere' when you mean 'I have a new job' is incorrect; you should say 'Ich habe einen neuen Job' or 'Ich habe eine neue Stelle'.

Falsch: Ich suche eine neue Karriere als Kellner. Richtig: Ich suche einen neuen Job als Kellner.

Another major stumbling block is the choice of verbs. English speakers often translate 'to have a career' literally as 'eine Karriere haben'. While grammatically possible, it sounds passive and slightly awkward in German. The idiomatic and highly preferred expression is 'Karriere machen' (literally: to make career). Similarly, learners sometimes use 'Karriere tun', which is entirely incorrect, as 'tun' is rarely used in such abstract collocations.

Verb Collocations: The golden rule: Karriere + machen. Never Karriere + tun.

Prepositional errors are also common. When specifying the field of a career, learners might use 'auf' or 'an' instead of the correct preposition 'in' with the dative case. For instance, 'eine Karriere auf der Medizin' is wrong; it must be 'eine Karriere in der Medizin'.

Er strebt eine Karriere in der Wirtschaft an.

Furthermore, pronunciation can be tricky. English speakers might pronounce the 'r' sounds too softly or stress the first syllable ('KARR-ie-re'). The correct German pronunciation stresses the second syllable (Ka-RRIE-re), and the 'ie' is pronounced as a long 'e' sound, not like the English 'ie' in 'pie'. Lastly, learners sometimes overuse the word in casual contexts. While it is perfectly normal to ask a friend about their 'Job', asking about their 'Karriere' can sound overly formal or intense unless you are specifically discussing long-term professional ambitions.

Register and Tone: Reserve 'Karriere' for serious discussions about long-term professional paths. Use 'Job' or 'Arbeit' for daily work talk.

Ihre Karriere verlief nicht wie geplant.

Er hat seine Karriere selbst in die Hand genommen.

Eine gute Ausbildung ist das Fundament für eine erfolgreiche Karriere.

By being mindful of these distinctions—especially the difference between Job, Beruf, and Karriere, and the strict adherence to 'Karriere machen'—you can avoid the most common traps and speak German more naturally and accurately.

The German language offers a rich vocabulary for discussing work and professional life, and understanding the nuances between 'die Karriere' and its synonyms is key to achieving fluency. The most direct synonyms are 'die Laufbahn' and 'der Werdegang', but each carries a slightly different connotation. 'Die Laufbahn' (literally: running track) is often used in more formal or structured contexts, particularly within the civil service (Beamtenlaufbahn), the military (militärische Laufbahn), or academia. It implies a predetermined, step-by-step progression through ranks or levels.

Laufbahn vs. Karriere: 'Laufbahn' is more structured and formal, often used for civil service or military paths. 'Karriere' is broader and implies ambition.

'Der Werdegang' (development/background) focuses more on the historical sequence of events in someone's life, encompassing education, training, and professional experience. It is frequently used in the context of a resume (Lebenslauf) to describe one's background.

Können Sie uns etwas über Ihren beruflichen Werdegang erzählen?

While 'Karriere' emphasizes future potential and upward mobility, 'Werdegang' looks back at the path already taken. Another closely related word is 'der Beruf' (profession/vocation). As mentioned earlier, 'Beruf' refers to the specific occupation you have trained for, such as a baker, engineer, or nurse. It is tied to your qualifications and identity. 'Der Job', borrowed from English, is used colloquially to refer to any paid work, regardless of whether it requires specific training or offers advancement opportunities. A student might have a 'Nebenjob' (part-time job) in a café, which is a 'Job' but not a 'Karriere'.

Job vs. Beruf: A 'Job' is just for earning money. A 'Beruf' is a trained profession. A 'Karriere' is the long-term path of success.

'Die Anstellung' (employment/position) is a formal term referring to the state of being employed or the specific job position itself.

Sie hat eine feste Anstellung in einer Bank gefunden.

Finally, 'die Berufung' (calling/vocation) is a profound word that suggests a deep, almost spiritual or passionate connection to one's work. Someone who feels their work is a 'Berufung' does it out of passion, not just for the 'Karriere' or the money.

Berufung: A calling or life's purpose, often contrasted with a purely financially driven career.

Für ihn ist Arzt sein keine Karriere, sondern eine Berufung.

Ihre Laufbahn im öffentlichen Dienst war sehr erfolgreich.

Mein Werdegang ist im Lebenslauf detailliert beschrieben.

By distinguishing between these terms, you can articulate your professional experiences and aspirations with much greater precision, showing a deep understanding of German workplace culture.

How Formal Is It?

격식체

비격식체

속어

난이도

알아야 할 문법

수준별 예문

Ich mache Karriere.

I am making a career.

Subject + verb + object.

Die Karriere ist wichtig.

The career is important.

Definite article 'die' for feminine noun.

Er hat eine gute Karriere.

He has a good career.

Indefinite article 'eine' in accusative.

Sie liebt ihre Karriere.

She loves her career.

Possessive pronoun 'ihre'.

Ist das deine Karriere?

Is that your career?

Question structure with 'ist'.

Wir sprechen über die Karriere.

We are talking about the career.

Preposition 'über' + accusative.

Meine Karriere beginnt jetzt.

My career begins now.

Verb 'beginnen' in present tense.

Er sucht eine Karriere.

He is looking for a career.

Verb 'suchen' + accusative.

Ich möchte in der Firma Karriere machen.

I want to make a career in the company.

Modal verb 'möchte' with infinitive at the end.

Ihre Karriere als Lehrerin ist sehr lang.

Her career as a teacher is very long.

Use of 'als' to specify the profession.

Er hat viel für seine Karriere gelernt.

He learned a lot for his career.

Perfekt tense with 'hat ... gelernt'.

Die Karriereleiter ist manchmal sehr steil.

The career ladder is sometimes very steep.

Compound noun 'Karriereleiter'.

Wir planen unsere Karriere zusammen.

We are planning our careers together.

Verb 'planen' in present tense.

Geld ist nicht alles in einer Karriere.

Money is not everything in a career.

Preposition 'in' + dative 'einer'.

Sie träumt von einer internationalen Karriere.

She dreams of an international career.

Preposition 'von' + dative.

Sein Job ist gut, aber es ist keine Karriere.

His job is good, but it is not a career.

Contrast between Job and Karriere.

Weil sie Karriere machen will, arbeitet sie auch am Wochenende.

Because she wants to make a career, she also works on weekends.

Subordinate clause with 'weil', verb at the end.

Er hat seine Karriere aufgegeben, um sich um die Kinder zu kümmern.

He gave up his career to take care of the children.

Infinitive clause with 'um ... zu'.

Die Karriereaussichten in der IT-Branche sind momentan sehr gut.

The career prospects in the IT industry are currently very good.

Compound noun 'Karriereaussichten'.

Ich bin mir nicht sicher, ob diese Entscheidung gut für meine Karriere ist.

I am not sure if this decision is good for my career.

Indirect question with 'ob'.

Trotz ihrer erfolgreichen Karriere ist sie sehr bescheiden geblieben.

Despite her successful career, she has remained very modest.

Preposition 'trotz' + genitive.

Man muss viele Kompromisse eingehen, wenn man Karriere machen möchte.

One has to make many compromises if one wants to make a career.

Conditional clause with 'wenn'.

Ihre berufliche Karriere verlief bisher völlig reibungslos.

Her professional career has gone completely smoothly so far.

Präteritum of 'verlaufen'.

Er interessiert sich mehr für seine Hobbys als für seine Karriere.

He is more interested in his hobbies than in his career.

Reflexive verb 'sich interessieren für'.

Um auf der Karriereleiter weiter nach oben zu klettern, benötigt sie zusätzliche Qualifikationen.

In order to climb further up the career ladder, she needs additional qualifications.

Extended infinitive clause 'Um ... zu klettern'.

Der plötzliche Karriereknick war für ihn psychisch schwer zu verkraften.

The sudden career slump was psychologically hard for him to cope with.

Compound noun 'Karriereknick' as subject.

Es wird oft behauptet, dass Frauen für die gleiche Karriere härter arbeiten müssen.

It is often claimed that women have to work harder for the same career.

Passive construction 'Es wird behauptet'.

Hätte er das Angebot angenommen, wäre seine Karriere ganz anders verlaufen.

Had he accepted the offer, his career would have gone completely differently.

Konjunktiv II in the past (Irrealis).

Die Vereinbarkeit von Familie und Karriere stellt viele Paare vor große Herausforderungen.

The compatibility of family and career presents many couples with great challenges.

Formal vocabulary 'Vereinbarkeit'.

Sie hat sich bewusst gegen eine steile Karriere und für mehr Freizeit entschieden.

She consciously decided against a steep career and for more free time.

Verb 'sich entscheiden gegen/für'.

Ein gutes Netzwerk ist unerlässlich, wenn man eine erfolgreiche Karriere anstrebt.

A good network is essential if one strives for a successful career.

Verb 'anstreben' in a subordinate clause.

Sein beruflicher Werdegang zeigt, dass eine Karriere nicht immer geradlinig verlaufen muss.

His professional background shows that a career does not always have to be linear.

Use of 'Werdegang' and 'Karriere' in contrast.

Die ständige Fixierung auf die eigene Karriere kann zu einer Entfremdung von den eigentlichen Lebenszielen führen.

The constant fixation on one's own career can lead to an alienation from actual life goals.

Nominal style with complex attributes.

In der heutigen Leistungsgesellschaft wird die Karriere oft als primärer Maßstab für persönlichen Erfolg herangezogen.

In today's meritocracy, the career is often used as the primary benchmark for personal success.

Passive voice in a formal register.

Die sogenannte gläserne Decke verhindert nach wie vor, dass Frauen in bestimmte Karriereebenen vordringen.

The so-called glass ceiling still prevents women from advancing into certain career levels.

Metaphorical language 'gläserne Decke'.

Anstatt einer klassischen Laufbahn bevorzugen viele junge Talente heutzutage eine flexible Mosaikkarriere.

Instead of a classic career path, many young talents nowadays prefer a flexible mosaic career.

Preposition 'Anstatt' + genitive.

Er hat seine Karriere rücksichtslos vorangetrieben, ohne auf die Befindlichkeiten seiner Kollegen Rücksicht zu nehmen.

He ruthlessly advanced his career without considering the feelings of his colleagues.

Extended infinitive clause 'ohne ... zu nehmen'.

Die Diskrepanz zwischen beruflicher Karriere und innerer Berufung ist ein häufiges Motiv in der modernen Literatur.

The discrepancy between professional career and inner calling is a common motif in modern literature.

Academic vocabulary 'Diskrepanz'.

Ein abrupter Karriereabbruch zwingt das Individuum oft zu einer tiefgreifenden Neuorientierung.

An abrupt career termination often forces the individual into a profound reorientation.

Compound noun 'Karriereabbruch'.

Es bedarf enormer Resilienz, um nach einem solchen Rückschlag die Karriere wieder in Schwung zu bringen.

It requires enormous resilience to get the career going again after such a setback.

Idiomatic expression 'in Schwung bringen'.

Die semantische Evolution des Begriffs 'Karriere' spiegelt den Wandel von einer ständischen zu einer leistungsorientierten Gesellschaft wider.

The semantic evolution of the term 'career' reflects the shift from a class-based to a performance-oriented society.

Highly academic vocabulary and structure.

Ihre beispiellose Karriere in der Diplomatie zeugt von einem bemerkenswerten diplomatischen Geschick und strategischer Weitsicht.

Her unprecedented career in diplomacy is a testament to remarkable diplomatic skill and strategic foresight.

Sophisticated adjectives 'beispiellos', 'bemerkenswert'.

Der Begriff der Karriere wird in der zeitgenössischen Soziologie zunehmend dekonstruiert und seiner inhärenten kapitalistischen Logik entkleidet.

The concept of the career is increasingly deconstructed in contemporary sociology and stripped of its inherent capitalist logic.

Passive voice with complex verbs 'dekonstruiert', 'entkleidet'.

Sich dem Diktat der Karriereplanung zu entziehen, gilt in bestimmten Milieus mittlerweile als ultimativer Akt der Selbstermächtigung.

Escaping the dictate of career planning is now considered the ultimate act of self-empowerment in certain milieus.

Infinitive clause as the subject of the sentence.

Die Karriere dieses spezifischen Narrativs in den Medien lässt tief blicken, was die kollektiven Ängste der Gesellschaft betrifft.

The career of this specific narrative in the media provides deep insight into the collective fears of society.

Metaphorical use of 'Karriere' for a non-human subject.

Ungeachtet der widrigen Umstände vermochte er es, seiner Karriere eine völlig neue, unerwartete Wendung zu geben.

Regardless of the adverse circumstances, he was able to give his career a completely new, unexpected turn.

Preposition 'Ungeachtet' + genitive, elevated verb 'vermochte'.

Die Obsession mit der eigenen Karriere kulminiert nicht selten in einem existenziellen Vakuum, sobald die beruflichen Ziele erreicht sind.

The obsession with one's own career not infrequently culminates in an existential vacuum as soon as the professional goals are achieved.

Elevated vocabulary 'kulminiert', 'existenzielles Vakuum'.

Es entbehrt nicht einer gewissen Ironie, dass gerade die schärfsten Kritiker des Karrierismus oft selbst beachtliche Karrieren vorweisen können.

It is not without a certain irony that precisely the sharpest critics of careerism can often point to considerable careers themselves.

Complex construction 'Es entbehrt nicht einer gewissen Ironie'.

자주 쓰는 조합

Karriere machen

eine Karriere anstreben

die Karriereleiter hinaufklettern

eine steile Karriere

eine erfolgreiche Karriere

die Karriere beenden

Karriere und Familie

für die Karriere opfern

eine internationale Karriere

die Karriere fördern

자주 쓰는 구문

Karriere machen

auf der Karriereleiter stehen

Karriere und Familie vereinbaren

einen Karriereknick erleben

der Karriere einen Schub geben

seine Karriere planen

die Karriere vorantreiben

eine beispiellose Karriere hinlegen

die Karriere an den Nagel hängen

Karriere auf Kosten anderer machen

자주 혼동되는 단어

die Karriere vs der Beruf

die Karriere vs der Job

die Karriere vs die Arbeit

관용어 및 표현

혼동하기 쉬운

die Karriere vs

문장 패턴

사용법

nuances

Implies upward mobility. A lateral move is rarely described as a 'Karrieresprung'.

formality

Appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, but implies a level of seriousness about work.

regional differences

Universally understood in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. No major regional variations in meaning.

자주 하는 실수

Translating 'I have a career' as 'Ich habe eine Karriere' instead of 'Ich mache Karriere'.
Using 'Karriere' when referring to a simple, temporary 'Job'.
Pronouncing the word with the stress on the first syllable (KARR-ie-re) instead of the second (ka-RRIE-re).
Forgetting to capitalize the 'K' in written German.
Using the wrong preposition, such as 'Karriere auf der Medizin' instead of 'Karriere in der Medizin'.

팁

Always use 'machen'

The most important verb collocation to remember is 'Karriere machen'. Do not try to directly translate 'to have a career' or 'to build a career' until you are at an advanced level. Stick to 'machen' for safety.

Compound Nouns are your friend

German loves compound nouns. Once you know 'Karriere', you can easily understand 'Karrierechance' (chance), 'Karriereplan' (plan), and 'Karriereziel' (goal). Look for these in job ads.

Stress the 'ie'

English speakers often stress the first syllable. In German, the stress is heavily on the second syllable: ka-RRIE-re. The 'ie' sounds like a long 'e'.

Work-Life-Balance

When discussing careers in Germany, it is very common to also discuss 'Work-Life-Balance' (used as an English loanword). Showing you understand this balance is good for cultural fluency.

Capitalization is key

Never write 'karriere' with a lowercase 'k' unless it is part of an adjective like 'karriereorientiert'. Nouns are always capitalized in German.

Don't use it for part-time gigs

If you are working a summer job at an ice cream parlor, do not call it your 'Karriere'. Use 'Job' or 'Nebenjob'. 'Karriere' implies long-term professional ambition.

Preposition 'in' takes Dative here

When saying 'a career in [field]', the field is usually feminine (die IT, die Wirtschaft, die Politik). Therefore, use 'in der': 'eine Karriere in der Politik'.

Learn 'Werdegang' for resumes

If you are writing a CV (Lebenslauf) or a cover letter, the word 'Werdegang' (background/development) is often more appropriate than 'Karriere' to describe your past experience.

Use 'steil' for fast success

A great native-sounding adjective to use with Karriere is 'steil' (steep). 'Er hat eine steile Karriere gemacht' means he had a meteoric rise to success.

The 'Duales System'

Understand that a 'Karriere' in Germany doesn't always require a university degree. The 'Duales System' (apprenticeships) produces highly respected professionals who have excellent 'Karrieren'.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a CAR driving fast on the REAR road to success. CAR-REAR-e = Karriere.

어원

Borrowed in the 17th century from French 'carrière' (racecourse, career), which stems from Old Occitan 'carriera' (street, road for vehicles), ultimately from Late Latin 'carraria' (carriage road).

문화적 맥락

The 'Frauenquote' (women's quota) in boardrooms is a major political topic aimed at helping women make 'Karriere' in top management.

Punctuality, direct communication, and formal qualifications (certificates, degrees) are highly valued and essential for a successful 'Karriere' in DACH regions.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

대화 시작하기

"Ist dir deine Karriere wichtiger als Freizeit?"

"Wie stellst du dir deine Karriere in fünf Jahren vor?"

"Glaubst du, dass man heute noch eine klassische Karriere machen kann?"

"Was war bisher dein größter Karrieresprung?"

"Wie vereinbarst du Familie und Karriere?"

일기 주제

Beschreibe deine Traumkarriere. Was machst du in 10 Jahren?

Welche Hindernisse gibt es auf deiner Karriereleiter?

Ist der Begriff 'Karriere' für dich positiv oder negativ besetzt? Warum?

Schreibe über eine Person, deren Karriere du bewunderst.

Wie wichtig ist Geld für deine Karriereplanung?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

While grammatically correct, it sounds unnatural to native German speakers. The idiomatic expression is 'Ich mache Karriere' (I am making a career) or 'Ich habe eine gute Karriere gemacht' (I had a good career). Avoid translating 'to have a career' literally.

'Beruf' is your learned profession or occupation, like being a teacher or a mechanic. 'Karriere' is the path of advancement and success within that profession or across multiple jobs. You learn a Beruf, but you build a Karriere.

No, 'Karriere' can be used for any field where there is progression or notable success. You can have a 'Karriere' in sports (Sportkarriere), music (Musikkariere), or politics (politische Karriere). It is not limited to corporate environments.

The first 'r' is typically pronounced as a standard German 'r' (often a uvular fricative in the back of the throat), but the 'ie' is the stressed part. The final 're' is pronounced with a soft schwa sound, almost like 'ruh' but very short. Stress the middle: ka-RRIE-re.

'Karriereleiter' literally translates to 'career ladder'. It is a very common metaphor used to describe the hierarchical steps one takes to reach higher positions in a company. Climbing it is called 'die Karriereleiter hinaufklettern'.

Yes, 'karrieregeil' is a pejorative slang term. It means someone is overly obsessed with their career, ruthless, and willing to do anything to get ahead, often at the expense of others or their own morals. Use it with caution.

A career change is often called a 'Berufswechsel' or 'Karrierewechsel'. Someone who changes careers completely is often referred to as a 'Quereinsteiger' (lateral entrant), which is a very common and useful term in the German job market.

If you are talking about the field, use 'in' + dative (e.g., in der IT, in der Politik). If you are talking about the role, use 'als' (e.g., Karriere als Manager). If you are talking about doing something for your career, use 'für' + accusative (e.g., für die Karriere).

Yes, absolutely. Like all nouns in the German language, 'Karriere' must always be capitalized, regardless of where it appears in the sentence. Failing to capitalize nouns is a common spelling mistake for learners.

A 'Mosaikkarriere' is a modern term for a non-linear career path. Instead of climbing a single ladder in one company, a person might switch industries, take sabbaticals, or work as a freelancer. It reflects the changing nature of work in the 21st century.