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der Kinderwunsch

B1 noun #7,000 most common 9 min read

der Kinderwunsch

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips der Kinderwunsch in 30 Seconds

Explanation der Kinderwunsch in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that Kinderwunsch means 'wanting kids.' It is a combination of two words you already know: 'Kinder' (children) and 'Wunsch' (wish). You will mostly use it with the verb 'haben.' For example, 'Ich habe einen Kinderwunsch' (I want to have children). In simple German, it is like saying 'Ich möchte Kinder haben.' It is a masculine noun, so we say 'der Kinderwunsch.' If you are talking to a doctor or a friend, this is a very important word to express your future plans for a family. You don't need to worry about the complex medical meanings yet; just remember it as a 'wish for kids.'

At the A2 level, you can start using Kinderwunsch in slightly more complex sentences. You might use adjectives like 'groß' (big) or 'stark' (strong) to describe the feeling. For example, 'Mein Kinderwunsch ist sehr groß.' You will also see this word in brochures about health or family. It is helpful to know that 'kein Kinderwunsch' means you do not want children. You can also use it to talk about other people: 'Meine Schwester hat einen Kinderwunsch.' This level is about connecting the noun to your daily life and basic future plans. You should also recognize that it's a compound noun, which is very common in German.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use Kinderwunsch in discussions about life choices, work-life balance, and social issues. You will learn more verbs that go with it, such as 'verwirklichen' (to realize) or 'erfüllen' (to fulfill). You will also encounter the very common phrase 'unerfüllter Kinderwunsch' (unfulfilled desire for children), which is important for understanding more serious conversations or articles about health. At this level, you can explain why someone might have a Kinderwunsch or why they might wait. You should also be comfortable with the accusative case: 'Sie hat einen starken Kinderwunsch.'

At the B2 level, Kinderwunsch appears in more abstract and professional contexts. You will read about 'demografische Trends' (demographic trends) and how the 'Kinderwunsch' of the population affects the economy. You should be able to discuss the ethical and social aspects of 'Kinderwunschbehandlungen' (fertility treatments). You will also understand more nuanced verbs like 'hegen' (to harbor) or 'aufschieben' (to postpone). You can use the word in more complex grammatical structures, including the genitive case: 'Die Realisierung des Kinderwunsches.' This level requires you to understand the word not just as a personal feeling, but as a societal topic.

At the C1 level, you should have a sophisticated understanding of Kinderwunsch. You will encounter it in legal, psychological, and philosophical texts. You might discuss the 'Recht auf einen Kinderwunsch' (the right to a desire for children) or the psychological pressure that a 'fixierter Kinderwunsch' (a fixed/obsessive desire) can cause. You will recognize the word in academic papers about sociology or medicine. You should be able to use the word with precision in high-level debates, distinguishing it from 'Nachwuchsplanung' or 'Fortpflanzungsmedizin.' Your vocabulary should include compound words like 'Kinderwunschzentrum' or 'Kinderwunschberatung' without hesitation.

At the C2 level, you master the full range of Kinderwunsch, including its use in literature and high-level political discourse. You can analyze how the concept of 'Kinderwunsch' has changed throughout German history, from a traditional expectation to a modern, individual choice. You understand the nuances of the word in different registers—from the clinical precision of medical journals to the poetic longing in a novel. You can debate complex topics like the 'Kostenübernahme bei Kinderwunschbehandlungen' or the 'gesellschaftliche Akzeptanz des späten Kinderwunsches' with the fluency and nuance of a native speaker. The word becomes a tool for deep cultural analysis.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

der Kinderwunsch in 30 Seconds

A masculine noun meaning the desire to have children.
Commonly used with verbs like 'haben', 'erfüllen', and 'hegen'.
Essential for medical, personal, and demographic discussions in Germany.
Often found in the compound 'unerfüllter Kinderwunsch' (infertility).

The German noun der Kinderwunsch is a compound word formed from 'Kinder' (children) and 'Wunsch' (wish, desire, or longing). In its most literal sense, it translates to 'the desire to have children.' However, in the German linguistic and cultural landscape, it carries a weight that often exceeds its simple English translation. It is not merely a passing thought or a casual preference; rather, it describes a profound, often life-defining aspiration to become a parent. This term is ubiquitous in discussions regarding family planning, reproductive health, and personal life goals.

Emotional Depth: The word implies a deep psychological state. When someone says they have a 'Kinderwunsch,' they are expressing a readiness or a yearning to change their life course toward parenthood.

Seit Jahren besteht bei dem Ehepaar ein unerfüllter Kinderwunsch, weshalb sie nun eine Klinik aufsuchen.

Beyond personal conversations, the term is a technical staple in medical and psychological fields. Germany has a highly developed network of 'Kinderwunschzentren' (fertility centers) dedicated specifically to helping individuals and couples realize this desire. The word is used neutrally and respectfully, acknowledging the sensitivity of the topic.

Die Beratung zum Thema Kinderwunsch ist in Deutschland sehr umfassend.

Societal Context: In demographic studies, the 'Kinderwunsch' of the population is analyzed to predict future birth rates and social needs.

Viele junge Menschen verschieben ihren Kinderwunsch aufgrund beruflicher Unsicherheit.

Finally, the term is often paired with verbs like 'hegen' (to harbor/cherish) or 'verspüren' (to feel/sense), which adds a layer of poetic or internal focus to the desire. It is a word that bridges the gap between the most private human emotions and the most clinical medical procedures.

Sie hegt schon lange einen geheimen Kinderwunsch.

Grammatical Note: As a masculine noun (der), it takes the accusative 'einen Kinderwunsch' when used as an object of a verb like 'haben'.

Haben Sie einen Kinderwunsch?

Using der Kinderwunsch correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that often acts as the direct object of a sentence. It most frequently appears with the verb 'haben' (to have), 'verspüren' (to feel), or 'erfüllen' (to fulfill). When discussing the timing of parenthood, Germans often talk about 'den Kinderwunsch aufschieben' (to postpone the desire for children) or 'den Kinderwunsch realisieren' (to realize/make real the desire for children).

Common Verb Pairings: - Einen Kinderwunsch haben (To have a desire for kids) - Einen Kinderwunsch äußern (To express a desire for kids) - Einem Kinderwunsch nachgehen (To pursue a desire for kids)

Wir haben uns entschieden, unseren Kinderwunsch erst nach dem Studium zu verwirklichen.

In more formal or medical contexts, the noun often appears in the genitive or as part of a compound. For instance, 'die Erfüllung des Kinderwunsches' (the fulfillment of the desire for children). It is also important to note the negative construction: 'keinen Kinderwunsch haben' (to have no desire for children), which is a clear and direct way to state one's preference for a child-free life.

Trotz des starken Kinderwunsches blieb das Paar kinderlos.

The Genitive Case: In formal writing, 'des Kinderwunsches' is used. Example: 'Die psychologischen Aspekte des Kinderwunsches sind vielfältig.'

Er verspürte plötzlich einen intensiven Kinderwunsch, als er seinen Neffen sah.

When discussing societal trends, you might see 'der aufgeschobene Kinderwunsch' (the postponed desire for children) or 'der späte Kinderwunsch' (the late desire for children), referring to people starting families in their 30s or 40s. Understanding these collocations helps you sound more natural and precise.

In der heutigen Gesellschaft wird der Kinderwunsch oft hintenangestellt.

Compound Nouns: Kinderwunschklinik (Fertility clinic), Kinderwunschbehandlung (Fertility treatment), Kinderwunschzeit (The time spent trying to conceive).

Die Krankenkasse übernimmt die Kosten für die Kinderwunschbehandlung nur unter bestimmten Bedingungen.

You will encounter Kinderwunsch in a wide variety of settings, ranging from intimate kitchen-table discussions to professional medical consultations and national political debates. In a personal setting, it is the standard way to talk about wanting a family. Friends might ask each other, 'Habt ihr eigentlich einen Kinderwunsch?' (Do you guys actually want to have kids?). It is a direct but respectful way to address the topic.

At the Gynecologist: Doctors frequently ask patients about their 'Kinderwunsch' to provide appropriate health advice, such as recommending folic acid or discussing contraception.

Bei bestehendem Kinderwunsch sollten Sie auf Alkohol verzichten.

In the workplace, although it's a sensitive subject, it might come up in discussions about career planning or parental leave (Elternzeit). However, employers are generally legally restricted from asking about a 'Kinderwunsch' during job interviews. In the news, you'll hear it in the context of 'Demografischer Wandel' (demographic change). Politicians often debate how to make it easier for citizens to fulfill their 'Kinderwunsch' by providing better childcare or financial incentives.

Die Politik muss Rahmenbedingungen schaffen, die den Kinderwunsch unterstützen.

Podcasts and Blogs: There are numerous German podcasts dedicated solely to the 'Kinderwunschreise' (the journey of wanting a child), sharing stories of success and struggle.

In unserem Podcast sprechen wir offen über den unerfüllten Kinderwunsch.

Whether it is an advertisement for vitamins, a serious documentary about reproductive technology, or a heart-to-heart with a best friend, the word 'Kinderwunsch' is the central term for the human impulse to create a new generation.

Das Thema Kinderwunsch ist für viele Paare sehr emotional besetzt.

Online Forums: Websites like 'urbia.de' have massive sections titled 'Kinderwunsch' where users exchange tips and support.

Ich habe mich im Kinderwunsch-Forum angemeldet, um Gleichgesinnte zu finden.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using Kinderwunsch is trying to translate the English phrase 'wanting children' literally into a verb-heavy structure like 'Kinder-Wollen.' While 'Kinder wollen' is grammatically possible as a verb phrase, it lacks the noun-based precision and cultural weight of 'Kinderwunsch.' In German, using the noun makes the concept feel more like a state of being or a specific life project.

Mistake: Kindheitswunsch: Do not confuse 'Kinderwunsch' (desire for children) with 'Kindheitswunsch' (a wish you had when you were a child, like becoming an astronaut).

Falsch: Mein Kinderwunsch war es, Feuerwehrmann zu werden. (Correct: Mein Kindheitswunsch...)

Another mistake is using the plural 'Kinderwünsche' when referring to a single couple's desire. In English, we might say 'their desires for children,' but in German, even for a couple, it's usually singular: 'ihr gemeinsamer Kinderwunsch.' The plural 'Kinderwünsche' is reserved for referring to multiple different wishes or the wishes of many different people in a general sense.

Richtig: Das Paar hat einen gemeinsamen Kinderwunsch.

Confusion with 'Wunschkind': 'Kinderwunsch' is the desire itself. 'Wunschkind' is the child that results from that desire (a 'wanted child').

Sie ist ein echtes Wunschkind, da der Kinderwunsch so groß war.

Lastly, don't forget the 'n' in 'Kinder.' Some beginners might say 'Kindwunsch,' but the plural 'Kinder' is mandatory in this compound noun because the desire is generally for the concept of children, not just one specific child in the abstract.

Falsch: Ich habe einen Kindwunsch. (Correct: Kinderwunsch)

Preposition Pitfall: Avoid saying 'Kinderwunsch für...' Instead, use 'Kinderwunsch bei...' or simply 'haben'. Example: 'Kinderwunsch bei Frauen über 40.'

While Kinderwunsch is the most common and precise term, there are several alternatives depending on the context. Understanding these will help you navigate different registers of German. For a more biological or demographic tone, you might hear 'Fortpflanzungswunsch' (desire to reproduce), though this is much colder and more scientific. In casual conversation, people often talk about 'Nachwuchs' (offspring).

Nachwuchs vs. Kinderwunsch: 'Nachwuchs' refers to the children themselves. You might say 'Wir planen Nachwuchs,' which is a slightly more playful way of saying you have a 'Kinderwunsch.'

Ist bei euch schon Nachwuchs in Planung?

Another related term is 'Elternschaft' (parenthood). While 'Kinderwunsch' focuses on the desire, 'Elternschaft' focuses on the state of being a parent. If you are reading academic or psychological texts, you might encounter 'generative Motivation,' which is the scientific term for the drive to care for and lead the next generation.

Die Familienplanung ist heute flexibler als früher.

Babywunsch: A more informal, modern, and perhaps slightly more 'cute' version is 'Babywunsch.' This is very common in lifestyle blogs and social media.

Hast du auch so einen starken Babywunsch, wenn du kleine Schuhe siehst?

In legal or administrative contexts, you might see 'der Wille zur Elternschaft.' This is much more formal and usually restricted to legal documents or court rulings. For everyday use, stick to 'Kinderwunsch' as it is the perfect balance of clarity, emotion, and social acceptability.

Der Kinderwunsch bleibt das zentrale Thema der Beratung.

Comparison Table: - Kinderwunsch: Standard, emotional yet clear. - Nachwuchs: Casual, refers to the kids. - Familienplanung: Professional, refers to the process. - Babywunsch: Informal, focus on the infant stage.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Die Patientin äußert einen dringenden Kinderwunsch."

Neutral

"Haben Sie einen Kinderwunsch?"

Informal

"Habt ihr eigentlich einen Kinderwunsch?"

Child friendly

"Mama und Papa haben sich ein Baby gewünscht."

Slang

"Bock auf Kids?"

Fun Fact

The word 'Wunsch' is related to 'win' and 'Venus', all tracing back to a root meaning 'to strive for' or 'to love'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkɪndəˌvʊnʃ/

US /ˈkɪndərˌvʊnʃ/

Primary stress is on the first syllable: KIN-der-wunsch.

Rhymes With

Mutterwunsch Vaterwunsch Punsch Flunsch Lebenswunsch Herzenswunsch Glückwunsch Sonderwunsch

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'Wunsch' with a long 'u' like in 'moon'. It should be short.
Missing the 'n' in 'Kinder', saying 'Kiderwunsch'.
Pronouncing the 'sch' as 's' or 'z'.
Stress on the second word 'Wunsch'.
Swallowing the 'd' in Kinder.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize if you know 'Kind' and 'Wunsch'.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct gender and compound spelling.

Speaking 4/5

Pronunciation of 'sch' and 'u' needs care.

Listening 3/5

Clear word, often used in specific contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

das Kind der Wunsch haben groß stark

Learn Next

die Schwangerschaft die Geburt die Erziehung die Familienplanung die Fruchtbarkeit

Advanced

die In-vitro-Fertilisation die Reproduktionsmedizin der demografische Wandel die Geburtenrate die Elternzeit

Grammar to Know

Compound Nouns (Komposita)

Kinder + Wunsch = Kinderwunsch. The gender is determined by the last word (der Wunsch).

Accusative Object

Ich habe einen (masculine accusative) Kinderwunsch.

Genitive Case

Die Erfüllung des (masculine genitive) Kinderwunsches.

Plural Formation

Der Wunsch -> die Wünsche. Thus: Kinderwünsche.

Adjective Ending

Ein starker (masculine nominative) Kinderwunsch.

Examples by Level

Ich habe einen Kinderwunsch.

I have a desire for children.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object (Accusative).

Hast du einen Kinderwunsch?

Do you have a desire for children?

Question form with 'haben'.

Mein Kinderwunsch ist groß.

My desire for children is big.

Subject + Verb + Adjective.

Wir haben keinen Kinderwunsch.

We have no desire for children.

Negative 'keinen' in the accusative.

Der Kinderwunsch ist wichtig.

The desire for children is important.

Nominative masculine noun.

Sie hat einen Kinderwunsch.

She has a desire for children.

Third person singular 'hat'.

Ist der Kinderwunsch neu?

Is the desire for children new?

Adjective 'neu' modifying the noun.

Sein Kinderwunsch ist stark.

His desire for children is strong.

Possessive pronoun 'sein'.

Mein Mann und ich haben einen gemeinsamen Kinderwunsch.

My husband and I have a shared desire for children.

Adjective 'gemeinsam' (shared/common).

Sie sprechen oft über ihren Kinderwunsch.

They often talk about their desire for children.

Preposition 'über' + Accusative.

Warum hast du einen Kinderwunsch?

Why do you have a desire for children?

Interrogative 'Warum'.

Viele Paare haben einen Kinderwunsch.

Many couples have a desire for children.

Plural subject 'Viele Paare'.

Er möchte seinen Kinderwunsch bald erfüllen.

He wants to fulfill his desire for children soon.

Modal verb 'möchte' + infinitive 'erfüllen'.

Der Kinderwunsch kommt oft später im Leben.

The desire for children often comes later in life.

Adverb 'später'.

Haben Sie Fragen zum Kinderwunsch?

Do you have questions about the desire for children?

Contraction 'zu + dem = zum'.

Ein Kinderwunsch kann sich ändern.

A desire for children can change.

Reflexive verb 'sich ändern'.

Ein unerfüllter Kinderwunsch kann sehr belastend sein.

An unfulfilled desire for children can be very stressful.

Adjective 'unerfüllt' (unfulfilled).

Sie haben ihren Kinderwunsch wegen der Karriere aufgeschoben.

They postponed their desire for children because of their career.

Preposition 'wegen' + Genitive (or Dative in spoken German).

In der Beratung geht es um den Kinderwunsch.

The counseling is about the desire for children.

Phrase 'es geht um' + Accusative.

Trotz des Kinderwunsches wollen sie noch reisen.

Despite the desire for children, they still want to travel.

Preposition 'trotz' + Genitive.

Wie geht man mit einem Kinderwunsch um?

How do you handle a desire for children?

Separable verb 'umgehen mit'.

Der Arzt fragte nach ihrem Kinderwunsch.

The doctor asked about her desire for children.

Verb 'fragen nach' + Dative.

Es gibt viele Möglichkeiten, einen Kinderwunsch zu realisieren.

There are many ways to realize a desire for children.

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

Ein plötzlicher Kinderwunsch hat sie überrascht.

A sudden desire for children surprised her.

Adjective 'plötzlich' (sudden).

Die Realisierung des Kinderwunsches erfordert oft Geduld.

The realization of the desire for children often requires patience.

Genitive construction 'des Kinderwunsches'.

Der Kinderwunsch wird in der modernen Gesellschaft oft spät thematisiert.

The desire for children is often addressed late in modern society.

Passive voice 'wird thematisiert'.

Ein ausgeprägter Kinderwunsch beeinflusst die Lebensplanung massiv.

A pronounced desire for children significantly influences life planning.

Adjective 'ausgeprägt' (pronounced/distinct).

Viele Frauen verspüren erst mit Ende dreißig einen Kinderwunsch.

Many women only feel a desire for children in their late thirties.

Verb 'verspüren' (to feel/sense).

Die psychologischen Folgen eines unerfüllten Kinderwunsches sind enorm.

The psychological consequences of an unfulfilled desire for children are enormous.

Genitive plural/singular nuances.

Sie hegt schon seit ihrer Jugend einen Kinderwunsch.

She has harbored a desire for children since her youth.

Verb 'hegen' (to harbor/cherish).

Der Kinderwunsch steht oft im Konflikt mit beruflichen Zielen.

The desire for children is often in conflict with professional goals.

Phrase 'im Konflikt stehen mit'.

Es ist wichtig, den Kinderwunsch offen mit dem Partner zu besprechen.

It is important to discuss the desire for children openly with one's partner.

Infinitive construction with 'zu'.

Die gesellschaftliche Akzeptanz für den späten Kinderwunsch wächst.

Societal acceptance for the late desire for children is growing.

Noun-preposition combination 'Akzeptanz für'.

Ein fixierter Kinderwunsch kann die Paarbeziehung belasten.

A fixed/obsessive desire for children can strain the couple's relationship.

Adjective 'fixiert' (obsessive/fixed).

Die Politik debattiert über die Förderung des Kinderwunsches.

Politics is debating the promotion of the desire for children.

Verb 'debattieren über' + Accusative.

Inwieweit ist der Kinderwunsch biologisch oder sozial determiniert?

To what extent is the desire for children biologically or socially determined?

Interrogative 'Inwieweit'.

Die ethischen Grenzen der Erfüllung eines Kinderwunsches sind umstritten.

The ethical limits of fulfilling a desire for children are controversial.

Genitive attribute 'eines Kinderwunsches'.

Der Kinderwunsch als Ausdruck individueller Selbstverwirklichung.

The desire for children as an expression of individual self-fulfillment.

Prepositional phrase with 'als'.

Studien untersuchen die Korrelation zwischen Einkommen und Kinderwunsch.

Studies examine the correlation between income and the desire for children.

Noun 'Korrelation' + 'zwischen' + Dative.

Ein ambivalenter Kinderwunsch erschwert die Entscheidungsfindung.

An ambivalent desire for children makes decision-making difficult.

Adjective 'ambivalent' (conflicting).

Die Sublimierung des Kinderwunsches in kreative Arbeit ist ein bekanntes Phänomen.

The sublimation of the desire for children into creative work is a well-known phenomenon.

Advanced psychological terminology 'Sublimierung'.

Der Kinderwunsch wird hier als existenzielle Sehnsucht porträtiert.

The desire for children is portrayed here as an existential longing.

Passive voice with 'als' + adjective phrase.

Inwiefern korrespondiert der Kinderwunsch mit demografischen Notwendigkeiten?

To what extent does the desire for children correspond with demographic necessities?

Verb 'korrespondieren mit' + Dative.

Die Dekonstruktion des traditionellen Kinderwunsches in der Literatur.

The deconstruction of the traditional desire for children in literature.

Abstract noun 'Dekonstruktion'.

Ein pathologisierter Kinderwunsch bedarf psychotherapeutischer Begleitung.

A pathologized desire for children requires psychotherapeutic support.

Verb 'bedürfen' + Genitive.

Das Spannungsfeld zwischen individuellem Kinderwunsch und ökologischem Fußabdruck.

The tension between individual desire for children and ecological footprint.

Noun 'Spannungsfeld' (tension/conflict area).

Die Instrumentalisierung des Kinderwunsches für ideologische Zwecke.

The instrumentalization of the desire for children for ideological purposes.

Abstract noun 'Instrumentalisierung'.

Der Kinderwunsch als Motor gesellschaftlicher Transformation.

The desire for children as an engine of social transformation.

Metaphorical use of 'Motor'.

Common Collocations

unerfüllter Kinderwunsch

einen Kinderwunsch hegen

einen Kinderwunsch realisieren

den Kinderwunsch aufschieben

starker Kinderwunsch

gemeinsamer Kinderwunsch

plötzlicher Kinderwunsch

später Kinderwunsch

Kinderwunsch äußern

Beratung bei Kinderwunsch

Common Phrases

Ist ein Kinderwunsch vorhanden?

— A polite way to ask if someone wants children. Commonly used by doctors.

Der Gynäkologe fragte: 'Ist ein Kinderwunsch vorhanden?'

Den Kinderwunsch hintenanstellen

— To put the desire for children on the back burner. Often due to career.

Sie musste ihren Kinderwunsch wegen der Promotion hintenanstellen.

Dem Kinderwunsch nachhelfen

— To use medical or natural aids to help conceive. A soft way to talk about fertility aid.

Manchmal muss man dem Kinderwunsch etwas nachhelfen.

Ein Herzenswunsch nach Kindern

— A very deep, emotional desire for children. 'Herzenswunsch' means 'heart's desire'.

Es war ihr absoluter Herzenswunsch nach Kindern.

Kinderwunsch und Karriere

— The classic topic of balancing family and work life.

In der Talkshow ging es um Kinderwunsch und Karriere.

Den Kinderwunsch begraben

— To give up on the hope of having children. A very sad idiom.

Nach vielen Versuchen mussten sie ihren Kinderwunsch begraben.

Einseitiger Kinderwunsch

— When only one partner in a relationship wants children.

Ein einseitiger Kinderwunsch kann eine Beziehung zerstören.

Kinderwunsch im Alter

— Discussing parenthood later in life (e.g., over 40).

Kinderwunsch im Alter ist ein kontroverses Thema.

Vom Kinderwunsch zur Familie

— The journey from wanting kids to actually having them.

Das Buch beschreibt den Weg vom Kinderwunsch zur Familie.

Kinderwunsch-Zeit

— The period during which a couple is trying to conceive.

Die Kinderwunsch-Zeit kann sehr anstrengend sein.

Often Confused With

der Kinderwunsch vs Kindheitswunsch

A wish from one's childhood, not the wish for children.

der Kinderwunsch vs Wunschkind

The child who was wished for, not the desire itself.

der Kinderwunsch vs Kinderwille

Less common, implies a more forceful 'will' rather than a 'wish'.

Idioms & Expressions

"In freudiger Erwartung sein"

— To be expecting a baby (pregnant). While not using the word 'Kinderwunsch', it is the next step.

Sie sind in freudiger Erwartung.

old-fashioned/polite

"Nachwuchs im Anmarsch"

— A baby is on the way. Informal way to announce a successful Kinderwunsch.

Bei den Müllers ist Nachwuchs im Anmarsch!

informal

"Das Nest bauen"

— The 'nesting' instinct that often accompanies a realized Kinderwunsch.

Sie fangen schon an, das Nest zu bauen.

informal

"Unter der Haube sein"

— To be married (historically a prerequisite for a Kinderwunsch in society).

Jetzt ist sie unter der Haube, bald kommt sicher der Kinderwunsch.

idiomatic/dated

"In die Familienplanung einsteigen"

— To start actively trying to have children.

Wir wollen nächstes Jahr in die Familienplanung einsteigen.

neutral

"Den Storch bestellen"

— A humorous way to say one is trying to have a baby.

Habt ihr schon den Storch bestellt?

humorous

"Sich fortpflanzen"

— To reproduce. Can be used humorously or clinically.

Willst du dich etwa fortpflanzen?

neutral/scientific

"Einen Erben zeugen"

— To father an heir. Very formal and traditional.

Er wollte unbedingt einen Erben zeugen.

formal/literary

"Kind und Kegel"

— The whole family (including illegitimate children historically, now just 'everyone').

Sie kamen mit Kind und Kegel.

idiomatic

"Auf den Geschmack kommen"

— To get a taste for something (like wanting kids after seeing someone else's baby).

Beim Anblick des Babys ist er auf den Geschmack gekommen.

informal

Easily Confused

der Kinderwunsch vs Kinderwunsch

Sounds like 'Kindheitswunsch'.

Kinderwunsch is the desire to have children. Kindheitswunsch is a dream you had as a child.

Mein Kinderwunsch ist aktuell, aber mein Kindheitswunsch war Pilot.

der Kinderwunsch vs Wunschkind

Both contain 'Wunsch' and 'Kind'.

Kinderwunsch is the feeling/desire. Wunschkind is the actual person (the baby).

Wegen meines Kinderwunsches habe ich nun ein Wunschkind.

der Kinderwunsch vs Nachwuchs

Both relate to having babies.

Nachwuchs refers to the children themselves. Kinderwunsch refers to the desire for them.

Wir planen Nachwuchs, weil wir einen Kinderwunsch haben.

der Kinderwunsch vs Familienplanung

Overlapping concepts.

Familienplanung is the umbrella term for the whole process/logistics. Kinderwunsch is specifically the desire.

Der Kinderwunsch ist der erste Schritt der Familienplanung.

der Kinderwunsch vs Fortpflanzung

Biological synonyms.

Fortpflanzung is the biological act of reproduction. Kinderwunsch is the human desire for it.

Fortpflanzung ist Natur, Kinderwunsch ist Gefühl.

Sentence Patterns

Ich habe einen [Noun].

Ich habe einen Kinderwunsch.

Wir haben einen gemeinsamen [Noun].

Wir haben einen gemeinsamen Kinderwunsch.

Trotz [Genitive Noun] ...

Trotz des Kinderwunsches warten wir noch.

[Noun] wird oft [Adverb] [Verb-Passive].

Der Kinderwunsch wird oft spät realisiert.

Die [Noun] des [Genitive Noun] ...

Die Realisierung des Kinderwunsches ist teuer.

[Noun] als Ausdruck von [Dative Noun].

Kinderwunsch als Ausdruck von Sehnsucht.

Es geht um den [Noun].

Es geht um den Kinderwunsch.

Einen [Noun] [Verb-Infinitive] zu [Verb].

Einen Kinderwunsch hegen zu können.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in personal and professional life in Germany.

Common Mistakes

Using 'die' Kinderwunsch → der Kinderwunsch
Gender error. The noun 'Wunsch' is masculine.
Saying 'Kindwunsch' → Kinderwunsch
Missing the linking 'er' (plural form) which is standard for this compound.
Confusing with 'Kindheitswunsch' → Kinderwunsch
Kindheitswunsch means childhood dream. Kinderwunsch is the desire for kids.
Using 'für' instead of 'bei' → Beratung bei Kinderwunsch
Preposition error. 'Bei' is used to mean 'in the case of' or 'regarding'.
Pluralizing for one couple → Ihr Kinderwunsch
Even if two people want kids, the desire itself is usually treated as a singular collective concept.

Tips

Remember the Gender

It's always 'der' Kinderwunsch. Even though it's about children (plural), the base word 'Wunsch' is masculine singular.

Use with 'hegen'

To sound more like a native speaker in a literary or deep context, use 'einen Kinderwunsch hegen' (to harbor a desire).

Medical Use

If you see 'Kinderwunsch' on a medical form, it's asking if you are currently trying to get pregnant.

Sensitivity

Be aware that 'unerfüllter Kinderwunsch' is a very sensitive topic in Germany, often discussed with great empathy.

Compound Power

German loves compounds. Use 'Kinderwunschklinik' instead of 'Klinik für Kinderwunsch' to sound more natural.

Short 'U'

Make sure the 'u' in 'Wunsch' is short. If you make it long, it sounds like a different word or simply wrong.

Opposites

Learn 'Kinderwunsch' alongside 'bewusste Kinderlosigkeit' to have both sides of the family planning conversation.

Listen for the 'R'

The 'er' in 'Kinder' is very light. In some dialects, it almost disappears, so listen for 'Kinda-wunsch'.

Adjective Choice

Use 'stark' (strong) or 'ausgeprägt' (pronounced) to describe the intensity of the desire.

Kinder + Wish

Just think: Kinder (the brand) + Wish (the app). A wish for Kinder!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Kinder' egg (which children wish for) + 'Wunsch' (sounds like 'wish'). You wish for the children inside the egg!

Visual Association

Imagine a giant dandelion. You blow on it (making a 'Wunsch') and the seeds turn into little flying 'Kinder' (children).

Word Web

Familie Baby Zukunft Liebe Arzt Hoffnung Planung Eltern

Challenge

Try to use 'Kinderwunsch' in a sentence describing a scene in a movie where a couple is looking at baby clothes.

Word Origin

A compound of the Old High German 'kind' (offspring, child) and 'wunsc' (desire, joy).

Original meaning: The literal combination of 'child' and 'wish'.

Germanic.

Cultural Context

Be sensitive when using this word; 'unerfüllter Kinderwunsch' can be a painful topic for those struggling with infertility.

In English, we usually say 'wanting children' or 'the desire for a family.' German uses the single noun 'Kinderwunsch' much more frequently in formal and medical contexts.

Numerous German TV documentaries titled 'Der große Kinderwunsch'. The book 'Unerfüllter Kinderwunsch' by various psychologists. Political slogans regarding 'Vereinbarkeit von Beruf und Kinderwunsch'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Doctor

Ich habe einen Kinderwunsch.
Gibt es Probleme beim Kinderwunsch?
Was können wir tun?
Folsäure bei Kinderwunsch.

In a Relationship

Wann ist der richtige Zeitpunkt?
Hast du einen Kinderwunsch?
Lass uns darüber sprechen.
Unser gemeinsamer Kinderwunsch.

In the News

Die Geburtenrate sinkt.
Staatliche Förderung für Kinderwunsch.
Später Kinderwunsch im Trend.
Kosten für Behandlungen.

In Online Forums

Wer ist auch im 1. Übungszyklus?
Tipps für den Kinderwunsch.
Unerfüllter Kinderwunsch - Austausch.
Positive Tests.

Psychological Counseling

Druck beim Kinderwunsch.
Wie gehen wir mit Enttäuschung um?
Den Kinderwunsch loslassen.
Psychische Belastung.

Conversation Starters

"Ist das Thema Kinderwunsch für dich gerade aktuell?"

"Was denkst du über den Trend zum späten Kinderwunsch?"

"Sollte der Staat Kinderwunschbehandlungen komplett bezahlen?"

"Wie hat sich dein Kinderwunsch über die Jahre verändert?"

"Glaubst du, man braucht einen Partner für einen Kinderwunsch?"

Journal Prompts

Beschreibe deine Gedanken zum Thema Kinderwunsch. Ist er für dich wichtig?

Wie stellst du dir dein Leben mit oder ohne Kinder vor?

Welche Faktoren beeinflussen deinen persönlichen Kinderwunsch am meisten?

Denkst du, die Gesellschaft übt zu viel Druck auf Menschen mit Kinderwunsch aus?

Was bedeutet 'Familie' für dich im Zusammenhang mit einem Kinderwunsch?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, individuals can also have a 'Kinderwunsch'. In modern German society, the term is used for single parents-to-be and LGBTQ+ individuals as well.

It is a specialized medical clinic (fertility center) that helps people who have an 'unerfüllter Kinderwunsch' to conceive through various treatments.

It is neutral and can be used in almost any context, from a chat with a friend to a meeting with a doctor or a demographic study.

It translates to 'unfulfilled desire for children' and is the standard way to refer to infertility or the struggle to conceive.

Yes, 'Ich will Kinder' is correct and common in casual speech, but 'Ich habe einen Kinderwunsch' sounds more established and serious.

Generally yes, but it can also encompass the desire to have a family through adoption or fostering.

In German, compound nouns often use the plural form of the first noun when referring to a general concept (like 'Kindergarten' or 'Kinderspiel').

There isn't a single verb that means the same thing. You must use the noun with a verb like 'haben' or 'verspüren'.

You would say: 'Ich habe keinen Kinderwunsch' or 'Ich verspüre keinen Kinderwunsch'.

Rarely. You might see 'Kinderwünsche' when a researcher is talking about the different types of desires across a population.