Meaning
To be a person who is often sad or prone to melancholy.
Cultural Background
The phrase is widely understood and used across all German-speaking regions. Similar usage, though sometimes people use 'kein Kind von Traurigkeit' to describe someone who is a bit of a 'rascal'. Used identically to Germany, though often in slightly more formal contexts. Often used with a slightly dry, ironic tone.
Negation is Key
Always remember that the negative form is the most common way to use this phrase.
Not for Clinical Use
Do not use this to describe actual depression.
Meaning
To be a person who is often sad or prone to melancholy.
Negation is Key
Always remember that the negative form is the most common way to use this phrase.
Not for Clinical Use
Do not use this to describe actual depression.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the idiom.
Er ist wirklich ______, er lacht den ganzen Tag.
Since he is laughing, he is NOT a sad person.
What does 'Er ist ein Kind von Traurigkeit' mean?
Choose the correct meaning.
The positive form literally means he is a sad person.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Warum ist er so still?' B: 'Er ist heute ____.'
If he is quiet, he is acting sad.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesEr ist wirklich ______, er lacht den ganzen Tag.
Since he is laughing, he is NOT a sad person.
Choose the correct meaning.
The positive form literally means he is a sad person.
A: 'Warum ist er so still?' B: 'Er ist heute ____.'
If he is quiet, he is acting sad.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, but it sounds a bit old-fashioned.
No, it's quite common and friendly.
Related Phrases
Trübsal blasen
synonymTo be sad/depressed.
Den Kopf hängen lassen
similarTo be discouraged.
Lebensfroh sein
contrastTo be full of life.
Ein Partylöwe sein
similarTo be a party animal.
