Meaning
Emotional pain and sorrow diminish over time.
Cultural Background
The phrase is often used in 'Sturm und Drang' and Romantic literature to describe the suffering of young protagonists. In a fast-paced world, this proverb is sometimes criticized by younger generations who prefer active therapy over 'just waiting.' The phrase is equally common in Austria and Switzerland with no regional variation in wording.
Use it for empathy
It is the safest thing to say when you don't know how to help someone who is sad.
Don't overdo it
If you say it too often, it can sound like you aren't really listening.
Meaning
Emotional pain and sorrow diminish over time.
Use it for empathy
It is the safest thing to say when you don't know how to help someone who is sad.
Don't overdo it
If you say it too often, it can sound like you aren't really listening.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing verb.
Zeit ______ alle Wunden.
'Heilen' is the specific verb used in this proverb.
Which noun is correct?
Zeit heilt alle ______.
'Wunden' is the plural of 'Wunde'. 'Wunder' means miracles!
In which situation is this phrase most appropriate?
Your friend is crying because they lost their phone.
This phrase is for deep emotional pain, not minor inconveniences like losing a phone.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Ich werde nie wieder glücklich sein. B: Doch, glaub mir. ____.
This is the most comforting response to someone feeling they will never be happy again.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesZeit ______ alle Wunden.
'Heilen' is the specific verb used in this proverb.
Zeit heilt alle ______.
'Wunden' is the plural of 'Wunde'. 'Wunder' means miracles!
Your friend is crying because they lost their phone.
This phrase is for deep emotional pain, not minor inconveniences like losing a phone.
A: Ich werde nie wieder glücklich sein. B: Doch, glaub mir. ____.
This is the most comforting response to someone feeling they will never be happy again.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsBoth are correct, but 'Zeit heilt alle Wunden' (without the article) is the most common proverbial form.
Technically yes, but people will think you are being weirdly poetic. Use 'Gute Besserung' instead.
Related Phrases
Kommt Zeit, kommt Rat.
similarWith time comes a solution.
Gras über eine Sache wachsen lassen.
similarTo let grass grow over something.
Zeit ist Geld.
contrastTime is money.
