At the A1 level, the word 'Karriere' is introduced as a basic vocabulary item related to work and jobs. It simply means 'career'. You learn that people work not just for a 'Job' (to get money today), but to build a 'Karriere' (a long-term plan for work). You might learn simple sentences like 'Sie macht Karriere' (She is making a career) or 'Er hat eine gute Karriere' (He has a good career). The focus is on recognizing the word and understanding its general connection to the professional world. You don't need to worry about complex grammar or nuanced meanings yet. Just know that when someone talks about their 'Karriere', they are talking about their work life over a long time. It is a noun, 'die Karriere', and it is very important in Germany because people care a lot about their work and education. You might see it in simple texts about people introducing themselves and talking about what they want to do in the future. For example, a student might say, 'Ich lerne Deutsch für meine Karriere' (I am learning German for my career). This shows that learning a language is a step towards getting a better job. The word is easy to remember because it sounds very similar to the English word 'career'. Just remember to pronounce the 'r' sounds in the German way and stress the second syllable. Practice saying it out loud: ka-RJE-re. As you learn more words for different professions (like Arzt, Lehrer, Ingenieur), you can use 'Karriere' to talk about the path someone takes in those professions. Keep it simple and focus on the basic meaning.
At the A2 level, your understanding of 'Karriere' expands to include more practical usage and basic collocations. You learn the essential phrase 'Karriere machen', which is how Germans express the idea of pursuing or having a successful career. You start to use the word to describe your own plans and the plans of others. For example, 'Ich möchte in der IT-Branche Karriere machen' (I want to make a career in the IT industry). You also begin to understand the difference between 'Beruf' (profession), 'Job' (job), and 'Karriere' (career path). This distinction is important for communicating accurately about work. You might read short articles or listen to dialogues where people discuss their career goals, the importance of education for their career, or the challenges of balancing work and personal life. You learn to use adjectives with 'Karriere', such as 'eine gute Karriere' (a good career) or 'eine schnelle Karriere' (a fast career). You also start to encounter compound words like 'Karriereziele' (career goals) and 'Karrierechancen' (career opportunities). The focus is on using the word in everyday conversations about work, education, and future plans. You should be able to ask someone about their career ('Was sind deine Karrierepläne?') and answer simple questions about your own. Understanding 'Karriere' at this level helps you navigate basic professional and social interactions in a German-speaking environment, showing that you can talk about more than just your current job, but also your long-term aspirations.
At the B1 level, 'Karriere' becomes a central vocabulary word for discussing professional life in more detail. You are expected to understand and use the word in contexts like job interviews, writing a resume (Lebenslauf), and discussing professional development. You learn more sophisticated collocations, such as 'eine steile Karriere hinlegen' (to have a steep/rapid career) or 'seine Karriere planen' (to plan one's career). You can express opinions on the importance of a career versus other life goals, using phrases like 'Karriere ist mir wichtig, aber Familie auch' (Career is important to me, but family is too). You encounter the word in authentic texts, such as job advertisements (Stellenanzeigen) and articles about the workplace. You learn to distinguish 'Karriere' from formal synonyms like 'beruflicher Werdegang' or 'Laufbahn'. You can discuss the steps needed to build a career, such as getting a degree (Studium), doing an internship (Praktikum), or gaining work experience (Berufserfahrung). You also learn vocabulary related to career setbacks, such as 'ein Knick in der Karriere' (a setback in the career). At this level, you should be comfortable discussing the pros and cons of different career paths and understanding the cultural significance of career advancement in German-speaking countries. You can participate in discussions about work-life balance and the changing nature of careers in the modern world. Mastering 'Karriere' at B1 allows you to communicate effectively in most standard professional situations.
At the B2 level, your use of 'Karriere' should be nuanced and precise. You are expected to handle complex discussions about career strategies, corporate hierarchies, and the socio-economic factors that influence professional success. You use advanced vocabulary and idioms related to 'Karriere', such as 'auf der Karriereleiter aufsteigen' (to climb the career ladder) or 'Karriere um jeden Preis' (career at any cost). You can read and understand detailed articles in business magazines or newspapers about career trends, leadership, and human resources. You are comfortable discussing abstract concepts related to career, such as 'Selbstverwirklichung' (self-actualization) through work, or the 'gläserne Decke' (glass ceiling) that some groups face. You can write formal letters or essays discussing career-related topics, using appropriate register and complex sentence structures. You understand the subtle differences between terms like 'Karriere', 'Laufbahn', 'Werdegang', and 'Berufsweg', and can choose the right word for the context. You can actively participate in debates about the future of work, the impact of digitalization on careers, and the evolving expectations of employers and employees. Your understanding of 'Karriere' at this level reflects a deep cultural competence regarding the German professional world. You can navigate networking events, job interviews for higher-level positions, and professional negotiations with confidence, using the vocabulary of career advancement naturally and effectively.
At the C1 level, you have a near-native command of the word 'Karriere' and its extensive semantic field. You can effortlessly understand and use highly specialized terminology related to career management, organizational psychology, and strategic human resources. You can analyze and critique complex texts about career development, such as academic papers, in-depth journalistic features, or corporate policy documents. You use idiomatic expressions and metaphors related to career with ease and precision. You can discuss the philosophical and sociological implications of a career-driven society, exploring topics like burnout, the gig economy, and the redefinition of success. You are capable of giving professional presentations or leading workshops on career planning and professional development in German. You understand the subtle irony or critical undertones that can sometimes accompany the word 'Karriere' in certain contexts (e.g., 'Karrieregeilheit' - excessive career ambition). You can seamlessly adapt your register when discussing careers, switching from highly formal academic language to colloquial office jargon as appropriate. Your mastery of 'Karriere' at this level allows you to function as an equal in any professional or academic setting in a German-speaking country, articulating complex thoughts and arguments about professional life with fluency, accuracy, and cultural sensitivity.
At the C2 level, your understanding and use of 'Karriere' are indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You possess a complete mastery of the word's historical, cultural, and linguistic nuances. You can deconstruct the concept of 'Karriere' in German literature, philosophy, and social commentary, understanding how the idea has evolved over time. You can engage in sophisticated debates about the ethics of careerism, the systemic inequalities that affect career trajectories, and the psychological impact of career success or failure. You use the most obscure or specialized vocabulary related to career with absolute precision. You can write eloquent, persuasive, and stylistically flawless texts on any aspect of professional life, from a nuanced critique of corporate culture to a deeply personal memoir about your own career path. You understand regional variations and subtle shifts in meaning depending on the specific industry or social milieu. You can play with the language, creating your own metaphors or compound words related to 'Karriere' that are both original and perfectly idiomatic. At this level, 'Karriere' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a complex concept that you can manipulate and explore with complete linguistic freedom, reflecting a profound understanding of the German language and the society it represents.

Karriere 30초 만에

  • The German word 'Karriere' refers to a person's professional journey, encompassing their education, jobs, promotions, and overall advancement in their chosen field of work.
  • Unlike simply having a 'Job' (a way to earn money), a 'Karriere' implies long-term goals, strategic planning, and a desire for upward mobility and success.
  • In Germany, a career often starts with a structured 'Ausbildung' (vocational training) or a university degree, providing a solid foundation for future professional development.
  • Common verbs used with 'Karriere' include 'machen' (to make a career), 'anstreben' (to strive for a career), and 'fördern' (to promote or support a career).

The German noun 'Karriere' translates directly to 'career' in English. It refers to a person's professional journey, encompassing their education, jobs, promotions, and overall advancement in their chosen field of work. Understanding this word is crucial for navigating the German professional landscape, which highly values structured career paths, continuous learning, and formal qualifications. In Germany, a career often starts with a structured 'Ausbildung' (vocational training) or a university degree, providing a solid foundation for future professional development. Unlike simply having a 'Job' (a way to earn money), a 'Karriere' implies long-term goals, strategic planning, and a desire for upward mobility and success. The concept of 'Karriere' is deeply embedded in the German work ethic, where dedication, punctuality, and expertise are highly prized. Many Germans spend years planning their career trajectories, carefully selecting internships, further education programs, and networking opportunities to ensure steady progression. The modern understanding of 'Karriere' has also evolved to include concepts like work-life balance, remote work, and non-linear career paths, reflecting broader societal changes. However, the core idea of professional growth and achievement remains central to the meaning of the word.

Core Definition
The professional path and advancement of an individual over their working life.

Sie träumt von einer großen Karriere.

When discussing 'Karriere', it is important to distinguish it from related terms like 'Beruf' (profession) and 'Job' (job). A 'Beruf' is what you are trained to do, a 'Job' is what you do to earn money right now, and a 'Karriere' is the overarching narrative of your professional life. This distinction is vital for accurate communication in professional settings.

Nuance
Implies ambition and upward mobility, not just employment.

Er hat seine Karriere sorgfältig geplant.

The cultural context of 'Karriere' in Germany also involves a strong emphasis on formal qualifications. Certificates, degrees, and letters of recommendation (Arbeitszeugnisse) play a significant role in shaping one's career opportunities. Employers often look for a consistent and logical progression in a candidate's resume (Lebenslauf), which reflects their commitment to their chosen career path.

Cultural Context
Formal qualifications are key to a successful career in Germany.

Ihre Karriere begann mit einem Praktikum.

Für die Karriere muss man oft hart arbeiten.

In recent years, the concept of 'Karriere' has expanded to include alternative paths, such as freelancing, entrepreneurship, and portfolio careers. This shift reflects a growing desire for autonomy, flexibility, and purpose in one's professional life. Despite these changes, the fundamental desire to build a meaningful and successful career remains a powerful motivator for many individuals in Germany and around the world.

Eine steile Karriere ist nicht alles im Leben.

Using the word 'Karriere' correctly in German involves understanding its common collocations and grammatical structures. The most important rule is that you do not 'have' a career in German; you 'make' one. The phrase 'Karriere machen' is ubiquitous and essential for any learner to master. When you want to say someone is having a successful career, you say 'Er macht Karriere' (He is making a career). This active phrasing reflects the German view that a career is something you actively build and shape through your own efforts and decisions. Beyond 'machen', 'Karriere' is often paired with adjectives that describe the trajectory or quality of the career. For example, a 'steile Karriere' (steep career) refers to a rapid and highly successful ascent up the corporate ladder. An 'erfolgreiche Karriere' (successful career) is a more general term for a career that has achieved its goals. Conversely, one might experience a 'Knick in der Karriere' (a dent/setback in the career) if things go wrong. Understanding these nuances allows for more precise and expressive communication about professional life.

Verb Collocation
Karriere machen (to make a career / to have a career).

Mein Bruder möchte in der IT-Branche Karriere machen.

Another common way to use 'Karriere' is in compound nouns. German is famous for its compound words, and 'Karriere' is no exception. Words like 'Karriereleiter' (career ladder), 'Karriereplanung' (career planning), and 'Karrierechancen' (career opportunities) are frequently used in business contexts. These compounds help to concisely express complex ideas related to professional development. When using these compounds, remember that the gender of the compound noun is determined by the last word in the chain (e.g., die Leiter -> die Karriereleiter).

Compound Nouns
Combine 'Karriere' with other nouns to create specific business terms.

Er klettert schnell die Karriereleiter hinauf.

Prepositions are also important when using 'Karriere'. You typically make a career 'in' a specific field or industry. For example, 'Karriere in der Politik' (career in politics) or 'Karriere in der Wissenschaft' (career in science). If you want to talk about the start or end of a career, you can use phrases like 'am Anfang der Karriere' (at the beginning of the career) or 'am Ende der Karriere' (at the end of the career). Mastering these prepositional phrases will make your German sound much more natural and fluent.

Prepositions
Use 'in' + Dative to indicate the field of the career.

Sie steht noch ganz am Anfang ihrer Karriere.

Eine Karriere als Arzt erfordert ein langes Studium.

Finally, consider the register when using 'Karriere'. It is a standard, universally understood word suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal written German, you might encounter synonyms like 'beruflicher Werdegang' or 'Laufbahn', which sound slightly more elevated. Nevertheless, 'Karriere' is never out of place and is the most versatile word for this concept.

Seine Karriere wurde durch den Skandal beendet.

The word 'Karriere' is ubiquitous in German-speaking environments, particularly in contexts related to work, education, and personal development. You will frequently hear it in job interviews, where recruiters might ask about your 'Karriereziele' (career goals) or your plans for 'Karriereentwicklung' (career development). In these situations, demonstrating a clear understanding of your career path is highly valued. You will also encounter the word extensively in educational settings. Universities and vocational schools often host 'Karrieremessen' (career fairs) to connect students with potential employers. Career counseling services (Karriereberatung) are widely available to help individuals navigate their professional choices. In everyday conversations, people often discuss their own careers or the careers of others, comparing trajectories, celebrating promotions, or commiserating over setbacks. The topic of 'Karriere' is a common icebreaker and a significant part of adult social interaction in Germany.

Job Interviews
A standard topic when discussing future plans and ambitions.

Was sind Ihre langfristigen Ziele für Ihre Karriere?

The media is another major domain where 'Karriere' is frequently used. Business news segments regularly report on the careers of prominent CEOs, politicians, and public figures. Articles and podcasts dedicated to career advice are incredibly popular, offering tips on everything from writing a perfect resume to negotiating a salary increase. The concept of 'Karriere' is also a central theme in many movies, television shows, and books, reflecting its importance in modern society. These narratives often explore the sacrifices, challenges, and rewards associated with pursuing a successful career.

Media & News
Used to describe the professional lives of public figures.

Die Zeitung berichtet über seine erstaunliche Karriere.

In the context of human resources (Personalwesen), 'Karriere' is a key concept. Companies develop 'Karrieremodelle' (career models) to outline potential paths for employee advancement. Performance reviews often include discussions about career progression and the steps needed to reach the next level. Understanding the vocabulary surrounding 'Karriere' is essential for anyone navigating the corporate world in a German-speaking country. It allows you to advocate for yourself, understand your options, and communicate effectively with management and HR professionals.

Human Resources
Central to discussions about employee development and promotion.

Wir bieten hervorragende Möglichkeiten für Ihre Karriere.

Ihre Karriere im Unternehmen war beispiellos.

Finally, the topic of balancing 'Karriere und Familie' (career and family) is a major societal discussion in Germany. Policies regarding parental leave (Elternzeit), childcare (Kinderbetreuung), and flexible working hours are frequently debated in relation to their impact on career progression, particularly for women. This intersection of personal and professional life makes 'Karriere' a highly relevant and emotionally charged word in many contexts.

Die Vereinbarkeit von Familie und Karriere ist ein wichtiges Thema.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using the German word 'Karriere' is translating the English phrase 'to have a career' directly into German as 'eine Karriere haben'. While grammatically possible, this sounds unnatural to native speakers. The correct and idiomatic expression is 'Karriere machen' (literally: to make career). This distinction highlights a subtle cultural difference: in German, a career is viewed as an active pursuit, something you build and achieve through effort, rather than something you simply possess. Therefore, instead of saying 'Ich habe eine gute Karriere', you should say 'Ich mache eine gute Karriere' or 'Ich habe eine erfolgreiche Karriere gemacht'. Mastering this verb collocation is essential for sounding fluent and natural in professional contexts.

Verb Choice
Use 'machen', not 'haben', when talking about pursuing a career.

Falsch: Ich habe eine Karriere. Richtig: Ich mache Karriere.

Another common pitfall is confusing 'Karriere' with 'Beruf' or 'Job'. While they are related, they are not interchangeable. A 'Beruf' is your learned profession or occupation (e.g., Lehrer, Arzt, Ingenieur). A 'Job' is a specific position or task you do to earn money, often temporary or casual. 'Karriere', on the other hand, refers to the entire trajectory of your professional life, including your advancement and achievements over time. Using 'Karriere' when you mean 'Job' can make you sound overly ambitious or misunderstand the context. For example, you wouldn't say 'Ich suche eine neue Karriere' if you just want a new job; you would say 'Ich suche einen neuen Job' or 'Ich suche eine neue Stelle'.

Vocabulary Confusion
Do not confuse 'Karriere' (career path) with 'Job' (current employment).

Sein Beruf ist Bäcker, aber er hat keine große Karriere gemacht.

Pronunciation can also be a stumbling block. The word 'Karriere' is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable: [kaˈʁi̯eːʁə]. English speakers often try to pronounce it like the English word 'career', which leads to misunderstandings. The German 'r' sounds, particularly the one in the middle, require practice. It's a guttural 'r' produced in the back of the throat. Additionally, the 'ie' is pronounced as a long 'e' sound, followed by a schwa 'e' at the end. Taking the time to master the pronunciation will significantly improve your comprehensibility.

Pronunciation
Stress the second syllable and practice the German 'r' sounds.

Hör gut zu, wie man Karriere richtig ausspricht.

Die falsche Betonung von Karriere kann verwirrend sein.

Finally, be careful with the plural form. While 'die Karrieren' exists, the word is overwhelmingly used in the singular when discussing the concept generally. You would say 'Sie konzentrieren sich auf ihre Karriere' (They are focusing on their career), using the singular even for multiple people, unless you are specifically emphasizing the distinct, individual career paths of different people.

Wir sprechen über die Karriere von Frauen in der Technik.

When expanding your professional vocabulary in German, it's crucial to understand the nuances between 'Karriere' and its synonyms or related terms. While 'Karriere' is the most direct translation for 'career', several other words capture specific aspects of professional life. Understanding these distinctions allows for more precise and sophisticated communication, especially in formal or academic settings. The most common related words are 'Beruf', 'Job', 'Laufbahn', and 'Werdegang'. Each has a specific context where it is most appropriate. For instance, 'Beruf' focuses on the training and identity associated with work, while 'Job' is more about the immediate employment and income. 'Laufbahn' and 'Werdegang' are closer to 'Karriere' but carry slightly different connotations regarding the structure and documentation of one's professional history.

Karriere vs. Beruf
'Beruf' is your learned profession (e.g., teacher). 'Karriere' is your path of advancement within or across professions.

Sein Beruf ist Ingenieur, aber seine Karriere führte ihn ins Management.

The word 'Laufbahn' is an excellent synonym for 'Karriere', particularly in formal or bureaucratic contexts. It literally translates to 'running track' but is used to describe a structured career path, often within a specific organization or the civil service (Beamtenlaufbahn). It emphasizes the predefined steps and stages of professional advancement. 'Werdegang' (development/background) is another formal term, often used in the context of a resume (Lebenslauf) or a biography. It encompasses not just professional steps but also educational and personal development that contributes to one's current status. When writing a formal cover letter, referring to your 'beruflicher Werdegang' sounds highly professional.

Karriere vs. Laufbahn
'Laufbahn' implies a more structured, often institutionalized path, like in the military or civil service.

Er strebt eine Karriere im diplomatischen Dienst an.

Another term to consider is 'Aufstieg' (rise/promotion). While not a direct synonym for 'Karriere', it is a crucial component of it. 'Aufstieg' refers specifically to the act of moving up the hierarchy, getting promoted, or achieving a higher social or professional status. A successful 'Karriere' is usually characterized by continuous 'Aufstieg'. Understanding these related terms enriches your vocabulary and allows you to describe professional experiences with greater accuracy and depth. It shows a deeper understanding of the German language and its cultural nuances regarding work and success.

Karriere vs. Aufstieg
'Aufstieg' is the specific action of moving up; 'Karriere' is the entire journey.

Der schnelle Aufstieg war gut für seine Karriere.

Ihre Karriere ist ein Vorbild für viele junge Frauen.

By mastering these distinctions, you can navigate German professional environments with confidence and clarity. Choosing the right word demonstrates respect for the language and the professional culture it represents.

Er blickt auf eine lange und erfüllte Karriere zurück.

How Formal Is It?

난이도

알아야 할 문법

Using 'um... zu' clauses to express purpose (e.g., um Karriere zu machen).

Adjective declension after definite articles (die steile Karriere).

Compound nouns and determining their gender (die Karriere + die Leiter = die Karriereleiter).

Prepositions with the dative case (in der Karriere).

Using the verb 'werden' for future plans (Ich werde Karriere machen).

수준별 예문

1

Das ist meine Karriere.

This is my career.

'Karriere' is a feminine noun (die).

2

Sie liebt ihre Karriere.

She loves her career.

Use the possessive pronoun 'ihre' for feminine nouns belonging to 'sie'.

3

Er macht Karriere.

He is making a career.

The verb 'machen' is used with 'Karriere'.

4

Die Karriere ist wichtig.

The career is important.

Simple subject-verb-adjective structure.

5

Ich lerne für die Karriere.

I am learning for the career.

'für' takes the accusative case (die).

6

Wo ist deine Karriere?

Where is your career?

Question word 'Wo' used in a simple sentence.

7

Wir planen die Karriere.

We are planning the career.

Present tense of 'planen'.

8

Eine gute Karriere.

A good career.

Adjective ending 'e' for feminine noun in nominative/accusative.

1

Ich möchte Karriere machen.

I want to make a career.

Modal verb 'möchten' sends 'machen' to the end.

2

Seine Karriere beginnt jetzt.

His career begins now.

Present tense of 'beginnen'.

3

Sie hat eine tolle Karriere.

She has a great career.

Using 'haben' to describe the state of the career.

4

Was sind deine Karrierepläne?

What are your career plans?

Compound noun 'Karrierepläne' (plural).

5

Er arbeitet hart für seine Karriere.

He works hard for his career.

'für' + accusative possessive 'seine'.

6

Die Karriereleiter ist lang.

The career ladder is long.

Compound noun 'Karriereleiter'.

7

Ich suche Chancen für meine Karriere.

I am looking for chances for my career.

Plural noun 'Chancen'.

8

Familie und Karriere sind wichtig.

Family and career are important.

Plural verb 'sind' for compound subject.

1

Nach dem Studium möchte sie schnell Karriere machen.

After her studies, she wants to make a career quickly.

Time phrase 'Nach dem Studium' at the beginning inverts subject and verb.

2

Er hat eine steile Karriere in der Bank hingelegt.

He has had a steep career in the bank.

Idiom 'eine steile Karriere hinlegen' in perfect tense.

3

Für eine erfolgreiche Karriere braucht man viel Erfahrung.

For a successful career, one needs a lot of experience.

Impersonal pronoun 'man'.

4

Sie musste ihre Karriere wegen der Kinder unterbrechen.

She had to interrupt her career because of the children.

Preposition 'wegen' takes the genitive (or dative in spoken German).

5

Ein Auslandspraktikum ist gut für den beruflichen Werdegang und die Karriere.

An internship abroad is good for the professional background and the career.

Combining synonyms for emphasis.

6

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'.

7

Die Firma bietet gute Möglichkeiten für die Karriereentwicklung.

The company offers good opportunities for career development.

Compound noun 'Karriereentwicklung'.

8

Trotz vieler Probleme hat sie ihre Karriere nicht aufgegeben.

Despite many problems, she did not give up her career.

Preposition 'Trotz' takes the genitive.

1

Um auf der Karriereleiter aufzusteigen, ist ständige Weiterbildung unerlässlich.

In order to climb the career ladder, continuous further education is essential.

Infinitive clause with 'um... zu'.

2

Die Vereinbarkeit von Familie und Karriere stellt für viele eine große Herausforderung dar.

The compatibility of family and career represents a great challenge for many.

Formal verb 'darstellen' (separable).

3

Er hat seine Karriere geopfert, um sich um seine kranken Eltern zu kümmern.

He sacrificed his career to take care of his sick parents.

Perfect tense of 'opfern' and infinitive clause.

4

Netzwerken ist ein entscheidender Faktor für eine erfolgreiche Karriere in dieser Branche.

Networking is a crucial factor for a successful career in this industry.

Noun phrase acting as subject.

5

Ein plötzlicher Jobverlust kann einen erheblichen Knick in der Karriere bedeuten.

A sudden job loss can mean a significant setback in the career.

Idiomatic expression 'Knick in der Karriere'.

6

Sie strebt eine Karriere im höheren Management eines internationalen Konzerns an.

She is striving for a career in the upper management of an international corporation.

Separable verb 'anstreben'.

7

Viele junge Menschen legen heute weniger Wert auf eine klassische Karriere als auf Freizeit.

Many young people today place less value on a classic career than on free time.

Phrase 'Wert legen auf'.

8

Die gläserne Decke hindert Frauen oft daran, in ihrer Karriere ganz nach oben zu kommen.

The glass ceiling often prevents women from getting to the very top in their career.

Metaphor 'gläserne Decke' and prepositional adverb 'daran'.

1

Eine strategische Karriereplanung erfordert eine genaue Analyse der eigenen Stärken und Schwächen.

Strategic career planning requires a precise analysis of one's own strengths and weaknesses.

Formal vocabulary and complex noun phrases.

2

Der Begriff der Karriere hat sich im Zuge der Digitalisierung und Flexibilisierung der Arbeitswelt stark gewandelt.

The concept of career has changed significantly in the course of the digitalization and flexibilization of the working world.

Prepositional phrase 'im Zuge' + genitive.

3

Er hat eine beispiellose Karriere hingelegt, die in der Branche ihresgleichen sucht.

He has had an unprecedented career that is unparalleled in the industry.

Relative clause with the fixed expression 'ihresgleichen suchen'.

4

Die Fixierung auf eine steile Karriere kann mitunter zu Burnout und sozialer Isolation führen.

The fixation on a steep career can sometimes lead to burnout and social isolation.

Academic register and abstract nouns.

5

Um den Karriereknick zu überwinden, bedurfte es eines radikalen beruflichen Neuanfangs.

To overcome the career setback, a radical professional fresh start was required.

Verb 'bedürfen' takes the genitive object.

6

In vielen traditionellen Unternehmen ist die Beförderungspolitik und damit die Karriereentwicklung noch stark hierarchisch geprägt.

In many traditional companies, the promotion policy and thus career development is still strongly hierarchically shaped.

Passive-like construction with 'geprägt sein'.

7

Sie hat sich bewusst gegen eine Führungskarriere entschieden, um sich auf ihre Fachexpertise zu konzentrieren.

She consciously decided against a management career in order to focus on her technical expertise.

Compound noun 'Führungskarriere' and reflexive verb.

8

Die Durchlässigkeit des Bildungssystems ist eine Grundvoraussetzung für chancengleiche Karrieren.

The permeability of the education system is a basic prerequisite for careers with equal opportunities.

Highly formal and abstract vocabulary.

1

Die soziologische Betrachtung der Karriere offenbart tiefgreifende strukturelle Ungleichheiten im Zugang zu elitären Positionen.

The sociological examination of the career reveals profound structural inequalities in access to elite positions.

Academic sentence structure with multiple genitive attributes.

2

Es entbehrt nicht einer gewissen Ironie, dass gerade die Verfechter der Entschleunigung oft auf eine überaus erfolgreiche Karriere zurückblicken.

It is not without a certain irony that precisely the advocates of deceleration often look back on an extremely successful career.

Sophisticated phrasing 'Es entbehrt nicht...'.

3

Die narrative Konstruktion der eigenen Karriere im Lebenslauf ist ein Akt der fortlaufenden Selbststilisierung.

The narrative construction of one's own career in the resume is an act of continuous self-stylization.

Abstract philosophical vocabulary.

4

Karrieregeilheit, ein pejorativer Terminus, geißelt das rücksichtslose Streben nach beruflichem Aufstieg unter Inkaufnahme moralischer Kompromisse.

Careerism, a pejorative term, chastises the ruthless striving for professional advancement while accepting moral compromises.

Use of rare verbs ('geißeln') and complex prepositional phrases ('unter Inkaufnahme').

5

Der Paradigmenwechsel in der Arbeitswelt obsoletisiert zunehmend das traditionelle Modell der linearen Lebenszeitkarriere.

The paradigm shift in the working world increasingly obsoletes the traditional model of the linear lifetime career.

Use of foreign words ('obsoletisieren', 'Paradigmenwechsel').

6

Eine stringente Karriereplanung mag zwar Sicherheit suggerieren, verkennt jedoch die Kontingenz biografischer Verläufe.

A stringent career planning may suggest security, but fails to recognize the contingency of biographical courses.

Concessive structure with 'mag zwar... jedoch'.

7

In der Postmoderne wird die Karriere nicht mehr primär als Aufstieg, sondern als kontinuierliche horizontale Erweiterung des Portfolios verstanden.

In postmodernity, the career is no longer understood primarily as an ascent, but as a continuous horizontal expansion of the portfolio.

Passive voice in an academic context.

8

Die Semantik des Wortes Karriere oszilliert zwischen dem Versprechen auf Selbstverwirklichung und der Drohung der totalen Vereinnahmung durch die Erwerbsarbeit.

The semantics of the word career oscillate between the promise of self-actualization and the threat of total appropriation by gainful employment.

Highly literary and analytical phrasing.

자주 쓰는 조합

Karriere machen
steile Karriere
berufliche Karriere
Karriere anstreben
Karriere beenden
Karriere fördern
Karriere planen
erfolgreiche Karriere
Karriere aufbauen
Karriere opfern

자주 혼동되는 단어

Karriere vs Beruf

Karriere vs Job

Karriere vs Arbeit

혼동하기 쉬운

Karriere vs

Karriere vs

Karriere vs

Karriere vs

Karriere vs

문장 패턴

사용법

pragmatics

Used to express ambition or to describe someone's professional success. Can be used neutrally or with admiration. Rarely used negatively unless combined with words like 'geil' (karrieregeil).

colloquialisms

'Karriere machen wie im Bilderbuch' (picture-book career).

semantic field

Work, ambition, success, life planning.

자주 하는 실수
  • Ich habe eine Karriere.

    In German, you 'make' a career, you don't 'have' one.

  • Er sucht eine neue Karriere.

    If you are looking for immediate employment, use 'Job' or 'Stelle'. 'Karriere' is the long-term path.

  • Die Karriere von ihm ist gut.

    Use possessive pronouns (seine, ihre, meine) instead of 'von' + Dative for better style.

  • Ich mache Karriere auf der Bank.

    Use 'in' (+ Dative) to indicate the industry or institution where the career takes place.

  • Das ist ein guter Karriere.

    'Karriere' is a feminine noun, so the article and adjective must be feminine (eine gute).

Use 'machen'

Always pair 'Karriere' with the verb 'machen' when you mean 'to have a career'. This is the most common mistake learners make.

Learn Compound Nouns

German loves compound nouns. Learn words like 'Karriereleiter', 'Karriereplanung', and 'Karrierechance' to instantly boost your business vocabulary.

Stress the Second Syllable

Don't pronounce it like the English word. Stress the 'rie' part: ka-RJE-re. Practice the German 'r' to sound authentic.

Preposition 'in'

When specifying the field, use 'in' + Dative. For example, 'Karriere in der Wirtschaft' (career in business).

Formal Qualifications

Remember that in Germany, a 'Karriere' is heavily dependent on formal qualifications (Ausbildung, Studium). Mentioning these is key in interviews.

Use 'Werdegang' in Resumes

When writing a formal cover letter, use 'beruflicher Werdegang' instead of 'Karriere' to sound more professional and modest.

'Steile Karriere'

Use the adjective 'steil' (steep) to describe a very fast and successful career path. 'Er hat eine steile Karriere hingelegt.'

Feminine Noun

Always remember it's 'die Karriere'. This affects adjective endings: 'eine gute Karriere', 'der erfolgreichen Karriere'.

Not just any job

Reserve the word 'Karriere' for long-term professional paths. If you just mean a temporary way to earn money, use 'Job'.

Listen to Business Podcasts

To get a feel for how the word is used naturally, listen to German business podcasts or watch news segments about the economy.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a CAR driving fast on a REAR track to reach the top. CAR-REAR-e = Karriere.

어원

Borrowed from French 'carrière' in the 17th century, which originally meant 'racecourse' or 'running track'.

문화적 맥락

Academic and professional titles (Dr., Prof., Dipl.-Ing.) are highly respected and often essential for top careers.

Germans value efficiency and expertise. A career is built on solid qualifications.

While career is important, Germans also highly value their 'Feierabend' (time after work) and vacation time (Urlaub).

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

대화 시작하기

"Was sind deine langfristigen Karriereziele?"

"Wie wichtig ist dir eine steile Karriere?"

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

"Wie vereinbarst du Familie und Karriere?"

"Was war dein bisher größter Karrieresprung?"

일기 주제

Describe your ideal career path in 10 years.

Write about a person whose career you admire and why.

Discuss the biggest challenge you face in your career right now.

How does the concept of 'Karriere' differ in your home country compared to Germany?

Write a short cover letter explaining your career goals.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

'Beruf' is your profession or trade, what you are trained to do (e.g., a baker, an engineer). 'Karriere' is the path of advancement and success you have over your working life. You can have the same 'Beruf' your whole life but experience a steep 'Karriere' by moving up to management.

While people will understand you, it sounds unnatural in German. The idiomatic expression is 'Ich mache Karriere' (I make a career). Always use the verb 'machen' when talking about pursuing or having a career.

Generally, yes, it implies success and advancement. However, if someone is described as 'karrieregeil' (career-obsessed), it becomes negative, implying they would do anything, even unethical things, to get ahead.

The stress is on the second syllable: ka-RJE-re. The 'ie' is pronounced like a long English 'e'. The 'r' sounds are pronounced in the back of the throat, typical of German.

It literally means 'career ladder'. It's a very common metaphor used to describe the hierarchical steps one takes to advance in a company or industry. 'Die Karriereleiter hochklettern' means to climb the corporate ladder.

Usually, 'Karriere' implies jobs with potential for upward mobility, often in corporate, academic, or political settings. It is less commonly used for jobs that don't have a clear hierarchical structure, though anyone can have a 'successful career' in their chosen field.

A 'Karriereknick' is a setback or a dent in one's career. It refers to a period where career progression stalls or goes backward, perhaps due to a bad decision, illness, or economic downturn.

You can say 'berufliche Neuorientierung' (professional reorientation) or 'Karrierewechsel'. Someone who changes careers completely is often called a 'Quereinsteiger'.

The plural is 'die Karrieren'. However, it is mostly used in the singular, even when referring to the careers of multiple people collectively, e.g., 'Sie planen ihre Karriere' (They are planning their career).

Like many words ending in '-iere' borrowed from French (e.g., die Barriere, die Misere), 'Karriere' takes the feminine article 'die'.

셀프 테스트 200 질문

writing

Write 2 sentences about what career you want.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using 'Karriere machen'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe your career plans in 3 sentences.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write about why a career is important to you.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a short paragraph about the difference between a job and a career.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe a successful career path in your country.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write an essay on the challenges of balancing family and career.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Discuss the concept of the 'glass ceiling' in the modern workplace.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Analyze the impact of digitalization on traditional career paths.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a formal cover letter highlighting your 'beruflicher Werdegang'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Critique the societal pressure to achieve a 'steile Karriere'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Explore the philosophical meaning of 'Selbstverwirklichung' through work.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to German: I am making a career.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to German: She is climbing the career ladder.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write an email asking for career advice.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Summarize an article about career trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Draft a corporate policy on career development.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a satirical piece on 'Karrieregeilheit'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe your biggest career goal.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Argue for or against the necessity of a university degree for a successful career.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
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Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is the person doing?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

How are the career plans?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What kind of career did he have?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is difficult?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is essential?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is complex?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Does she like her career?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is he climbing?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What was it?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is important for promotion?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is impressive?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is a problem?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is the person looking for?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is she?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

When does the career begin?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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