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Unwohlsein

B1 noun #5,000 most common 8 min read

Unwohlsein

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips Unwohlsein in 30 Seconds

Explanation Unwohlsein in your Level:

At the A1 level, you usually learn simple ways to say you are sick, like 'Ich bin krank' or 'Mir ist schlecht.' The word 'Unwohlsein' is a bit more advanced because it is a long noun. However, it is good to know that 'un-' means 'not' and 'wohl' means 'well.' So, 'Unwohlsein' is the feeling of 'not being well.' If you see this word, think of someone who feels a little bit sick, maybe in their stomach or their head. You don't need to use this word in your own speaking yet, but if a doctor says it, you should understand it means 'discomfort.' A1 students can remember it by looking at the word 'Wohl' (well) inside it. In German, we often make nouns out of verbs. 'Sein' means 'to be,' so 'Wohlsein' is 'being well' and 'Unwohlsein' is the opposite. It is a polite word. Instead of saying something gross about being sick, you use this word to be nice. You might see it on a sign in a pharmacy or in a simple story about someone who ate too much chocolate. It is always 'das Unwohlsein.' Practice saying it slowly: Un-wohl-sein. It sounds like three words together. If you go to a German doctor, and they ask 'Haben Sie Schmerzen?' (Do you have pain?), you can say 'Nein, nur ein Unwohlsein.' This is a great way to show you are learning more than just the basics.

At the A2 level, you are starting to build a larger vocabulary for daily life. 'Unwohlsein' is a useful word for describing how you feel in a more nuanced way. While 'schlecht' (bad) is very general, 'Unwohlsein' sounds more like a medical condition or a formal description. You might encounter this word when reading a news report or a formal email. For example, if a colleague is missing from work, the boss might say, 'Er fehlt wegen Unwohlseins.' This is the genitive form, which you start to learn at A2/B1. It is important to recognize that 'Unwohlsein' is a noun. In A2, you already know the adjective 'unwohl.' You can say 'Mir ist unwohl,' which means 'I feel unwell.' The noun 'Unwohlsein' is just the name for that feeling. You should also learn that this word is often used with 'verspüren' (to feel/perceive). It’s a bit more formal than 'haben' (to have). If you are writing a note to your teacher to explain why you were absent, using 'Unwohlsein' makes your German sound much more natural and mature. It shows that you understand how to use prefixes like 'un-' to change the meaning of a word. It also helps you understand other words like 'Gesundheit' (health) or 'Krankheit' (illness) by giving you a middle ground between them.

As a B1 learner, you are expected to handle more complex social and professional situations. 'Unwohlsein' is a key word for this level because it allows you to be discreet. At B1, you move beyond 'Ich habe Kopfschmerzen' and start using more abstract nouns. 'Unwohlsein' can describe both physical symptoms and a general sense of being 'off.' For example, if you are in a meeting and the atmosphere is very tense, you could say, 'Es herrscht ein gewisses Unwohlsein im Raum.' This refers to a psychological atmosphere. In medical contexts, you will hear doctors use it to describe vague symptoms. You should be comfortable using it in the accusative ('Ich verspüre ein Unwohlsein') and the genitive ('Wegen meines Unwohlseins'). You should also know common adjectives that go with it, such as 'leicht' (slight), 'plötzlich' (sudden), or 'anhaltend' (persistent). This word is very common in written German, so you will see it in newspapers and books. It is also a good word for 'softening' your language. Instead of saying 'The food was terrible and I feel sick,' you can say 'Das Essen hat bei mir ein leichtes Unwohlsein ausgelöst.' This is more polite and professional. B1 is the level where you really start to use 'Unwohlsein' as a tool for better communication.

At the B2 level, you should be able to discuss 'Unwohlsein' in various registers and contexts. You understand that this word is often used in formal announcements to protect someone's privacy. For instance, 'Die Veranstaltung wurde wegen eines Unwohlseins des Redners abgesagt.' Here, the word acts as a euphemism for illness. You should also be aware of its psychological dimensions. In B2, you might read texts about 'das Unbehagen' (discomfort/unease) and compare it with 'Unwohlsein.' While 'Unbehagen' is more about a feeling of being 'ill at ease' or 'uncomfortable' with a situation, 'Unwohlsein' often has a more somatic (physical) component, even if that component is vague. You should be able to use the word in complex sentences with prepositions like 'trotz' (despite) or 'infolge' (as a result of). For example: 'Trotz seines offensichtlichen Unwohlseins beendete er seinen Vortrag.' You should also be familiar with the verb 'klagen über' (to complain about), which is frequently paired with this noun: 'Die Patienten klagten über allgemeines Unwohlsein.' At this level, you should also recognize the word in literary contexts, where it might describe a character's internal state or their reaction to a stressful environment. It is a word that adds depth to your descriptions of human experience.

For C1 learners, 'Unwohlsein' is a word that can be analyzed for its stylistic impact. You recognize that it is a 'gehobener' (elevated) term. Using it instead of 'Übelkeit' or 'Krankheit' changes the tone of a sentence to be more objective, clinical, or discreet. You should be able to use it to describe complex social phenomena. For example, 'Das gesellschaftliche Unwohlsein angesichts der wirtschaftlichen Veränderungen ist spürbar.' Here, the word is used metaphorically to describe a collective anxiety or malaise. You should also be aware of its usage in legal or official documents—for instance, in a police report describing a person found in a state of 'physischem Unwohlsein.' At the C1 level, you should be able to distinguish between 'diffusem Unwohlsein' (a vague, hard-to-define discomfort) and 'akutem Unwohlsein' (a sudden, sharp feeling of being unwell). You might also encounter the word in philosophical or psychological essays where it describes the 'Condition Humaine'—the general unease of human existence. Your ability to use 'Unwohlsein' in these abstract ways shows a high level of linguistic competence. You can also use it to discuss the nuances of health and wellness, perhaps in a debate about medical ethics or public health, where 'Unwohlsein' is treated as a subjective experience that doctors must interpret.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'Unwohlsein.' You understand its etymological roots and its place in the history of the German language. You can use it with precision in any context, from a medical dissertation to a poetic description. You might use it to discuss the 'Unwohlsein' of a nation or an era, similar to the French 'mal du siècle.' You are sensitive to the subtle difference between 'Unwohlsein' and 'Unbehagen,' 'Missbefinden,' or 'Indisposition.' You can use the word to create specific atmospheres in creative writing—for example, describing a character who feels a 'schleichendes Unwohlsein' (a creeping unease) that foreshadows a tragic event. You are also comfortable with the word's grammatical flexibility, using it in complex genitive constructions or as part of compound nouns. You might analyze how the word is used in modern healthcare to move away from purely biological definitions of health toward a more holistic view that includes subjective 'Wohlsein' and 'Unwohlsein.' Your use of the word is not just about communication, but about nuance, tone, and cultural resonance. You could explain to a lower-level learner why 'Unwohlsein' is the perfect word to describe the feeling of a 'hangover' (Kater) in a formal medical setting, or why it is used in diplomatic circles to describe a 'slight tension' between countries.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

Unwohlsein in 30 Seconds

Unwohlsein is a formal German noun for 'unease' or 'discomfort.'
It can describe physical sickness (nausea) or psychological tension.
It is always neuter: 'das Unwohlsein.'
Commonly used in medical, professional, and literary contexts.

The German word Unwohlsein is a sophisticated and versatile noun that English speakers often translate as 'unease,' 'discomfort,' or 'a general feeling of being unwell.' At its core, it is a compound noun formed from the prefix 'un-' (negation), the root 'wohl' (well/good), and the suffix '-sein' (being). Thus, it literally translates to 'not-well-being.' Unlike specific medical terms that point to a clear diagnosis, Unwohlsein describes a subjective state where something is 'off' but perhaps not yet identifiable as a specific illness. It is the perfect word for that murky middle ground between perfect health and a full-blown fever.

Physical Context: In a medical or physical sense, it refers to nausea, dizziness, or a vague sense of sickness. If you feel like you might throw up or if your head is spinning slightly, you are experiencing Unwohlsein.
Psychological Context: It also extends to mental or emotional states. If a situation makes you feel awkward, anxious, or socially 'slimy,' you can describe this as a 'Gefühl des Unwohlseins.' It is common in literary contexts to describe a character's reaction to an eerie environment.

Nach dem schweren Essen verspürte er ein leichtes Unwohlsein in der Magengegend.

This word is highly frequent in formal reports, medical histories, and polite conversation. Because it is less graphic than saying 'I feel like vomiting,' it is the preferred choice in professional settings. For instance, if you need to leave a meeting because you feel sick, saying 'Ich verspüre ein gewisses Unwohlsein' is more elegant than being specific about your digestive tract.

Das soziale Unwohlsein in der Gruppe war fast greifbar.

Historically, the word has been used in German philosophy and literature to describe 'malaise'—a general dissatisfaction with the state of the world or one's life. It is a word that bridges the gap between the body and the soul.

Formal Usage: Commonly used in news reports regarding public figures: 'Der Politiker musste seinen Auftritt wegen eines plötzlichen Unwohlseins absagen.'

Ein diffuses Unwohlsein begleitete sie den ganzen Tag.

Trotz ihres Unwohlseins ging sie zur Arbeit.

Das Unwohlsein verschwand so schnell, wie es gekommen war.

In summary, use this word when you want to sound precise yet discreet about feelings of physical or mental discomfort.

Using Unwohlsein correctly requires an understanding of German noun cases and common verb pairings. As a neuter noun, it follows the standard declension patterns for 'das.' One of the most common ways to use it is as the object of the verb 'verspüren' (to feel) or 'haben' (to have).

Accusative Case: When you are currently feeling the discomfort: 'Ich verspüre ein plötzliches Unwohlsein.' Here, 'ein plötzliches Unwohlsein' is the direct object.
Genitive Case: Often used to describe the cause of something: 'Wegen seines Unwohlseins blieb er im Bett.' Note the '-s' ending added to the noun in the genitive.

Das Unwohlsein nach der Achterbahnfahrt war unvermeidlich.

You will frequently see it paired with adjectives like 'leicht' (slight), 'stark' (strong), 'plötzlich' (sudden), or 'diffus' (vague). A 'diffuses Unwohlsein' is a very common expression in German literature and psychology, describing a feeling that one cannot quite put their finger on.

Sie klagte über anhaltendes Unwohlsein.

Another important structure is 'Gefühl von Unwohlsein' (feeling of unease). This is particularly useful when discussing social atmospheres. For example, 'In dem alten Haus beschlich ihn ein Gefühl von Unwohlsein.' Here, the verb 'beschleichen' (to creep up on) adds a dramatic, atmospheric tone.

Dative Case: Used with prepositions like 'bei' or 'mit': 'Bei diesem Unwohlsein solltest du einen Arzt aufsuchen.'

Können Sie Ihr Unwohlsein näher beschreiben?

Es gibt viele Gründe für körperliches Unwohlsein.

Das Unwohlsein trat meistens nach dem Frühstück auf.

Ein kurzes Unwohlsein zwang ihn zur Pause.

Remember that 'Unwohlsein' is more formal than simply saying 'mir ist schlecht' (I feel sick). It implies a certain level of distance and objective description, making it the standard term in medical reports and formal news.

In Germany, you are most likely to encounter Unwohlsein in three primary environments: the doctor's office, the workplace, and the media. In a medical context, a doctor might ask, 'Haben Sie dieses Unwohlsein schon länger?' (Have you had this discomfort for a while?). It serves as a catch-all term for symptoms that are not yet diagnosed.

In the Media: News anchors use it when a celebrity or politician has to cancel an event. It is a polite way to say they are sick without revealing private health details. 'Die Kanzlerin musste die Sitzung wegen eines leichten Unwohlseins vorzeitig verlassen.'
In Literature: German writers like Franz Kafka or Thomas Mann often used 'Unwohlsein' to describe the existential angst or the physical manifestation of psychological stress in their characters.

Wegen eines akuten Unwohlseins wurde das Konzert abgebrochen.

Das Unwohlsein breitete sich in der Magengegend aus.

Ein Gefühl des Unwohlseins überkam ihn während der Rede.

You might also hear it in social commentary. For example, when discussing modern society, a sociologist might speak of the 'Unwohlsein in der Kultur' (malaise in culture), echoing Sigmund Freud's famous work 'Das Unbehagen in der Kultur'. While 'Unbehagen' is more common for psychological unease, 'Unwohlsein' is frequently substituted to emphasize a more somatic or physical reaction to social pressure.

Viele Passagiere klagten über Unwohlsein wegen des Wellengangs.

Das Unwohlsein war die erste Warnung seines Körpers.

Ein leichtes Unwohlsein ist nach der Impfung normal.

Lastly, in pharmaceutical advertisements, you will often hear: 'Bei Schmerzen oder Unwohlsein fragen Sie Ihren Arzt oder Apotheker.' This reinforces its status as a standard medical term.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using Unwohlsein is confusing it with other similar-sounding words or using it in contexts where a more specific word is required.

Confusion with 'Krankheit': 'Krankheit' refers to a diagnosed disease or a state of being sick (like the flu). 'Unwohlsein' is just the feeling of being unwell. You wouldn't say 'Meine Grippe ist ein Unwohlsein.' You would say 'Die Grippe verursacht Unwohlsein.'
Misusing 'Unbehagen': While often interchangeable, 'Unbehagen' is strictly psychological discomfort or awkwardness. 'Unwohlsein' is more often physical. If you feel awkward at a party, use 'Unbehagen.' If you feel like you might faint, use 'Unwohlsein.'

Falsch: Ich habe ein Unwohlsein in meinem Bein (wenn man Schmerz meint).

Another mistake is the grammatical gender. Since it ends in '-sein' (the nominalized form of the verb 'to be'), it is always neuter. Students often mistakenly use 'der' or 'die'.

Richtig: Das Unwohlsein legte sich nach einer Stunde.

Vermeiden Sie: 'Ich fühle Unwohlsein' (Besser: 'Ich verspüre ein Unwohlsein' oder 'Mir ist unwohl').

Das Unwohlsein ist kein Symptom, sondern ein Zustand.

Ein häufiger Fehler ist die Verwechslung mit 'Übelkeit' (Nausea). 'Unwohlsein' ist breiter.

Finally, don't use it for intense pain. If you have a broken leg, 'Unwohlsein' is a massive understatement. It is reserved for 'mild' or 'vague' sensations. Using it for severe trauma would sound sarcastic or extremely stoic in German.

To truly master German, you need to know when to use Unwohlsein versus its synonyms. Each word carries a slightly different 'flavor' or register.

Übelkeit: This is specifically 'nausea.' Use this if you feel like you need to vomit. 'Unwohlsein' is the umbrella term; 'Übelkeit' is a specific symptom.
Unbehagen: As mentioned, this is more 'discomfort' in a social or psychological sense. It is the feeling of being ill-at-ease in a situation.
Indisposition: A very formal, somewhat old-fashioned term for being 'under the weather.' You might see this in 19th-century novels or very stiff formal letters.

Statt Unwohlsein kann man auch 'Mattigkeit' sagen, wenn man sich schwach fühlt.

Das Unwohlsein ist weniger spezifisch als 'Schwindel' (dizziness).

In medizinischen Texten wird oft von 'allgemeinem Unwohlsein' gesprochen.

Ein Synonym für psychisches Unwohlsein ist 'Beklemmung'.

'Malaise' ist ein bildungssprachliches Wort für Unwohlsein.

Knowing these alternatives allows you to be more precise. If you tell a doctor you have 'Unwohlsein', they will ask for more details. If you say 'Übelkeit', they know exactly where the problem is. 'Unwohlsein' is the starting point of the conversation.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The suffix '-sein' turns verbs into abstract nouns that describe a state of existence. This is a very powerful feature of the German language, allowing for words like 'Menschsein' (being human).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈʊnvoːlzaɪ̯n/

US /ˈʊnvoʊlzaɪn/

Primary stress on the first syllable 'Un-', secondary stress on '-sein'.

Rhymes With

Bewusstsein (consciousness) Dasein (existence) Alleinsein (being alone) Zusammensein (being together) Anderssein (being different) Sonnenschein (sunshine) Edelstein (gemstone) Verein (club)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'v' like an English 'v' (it should be like a 'v' sound, but softer).
Shortening the long 'o' in 'wohl'.
Pronouncing '-sein' like 'seen' instead of 'zayn'.
Putting stress on the second syllable.
Missing the 'h' in 'wohl' (it makes the 'o' long, it's not a breathy sound).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is long but logically structured with common components (Un-wohl-sein).

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of neuter declension and formal verb pairings like 'verspüren'.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward if broken into syllables.

Listening 3/5

Easily recognizable in formal announcements and medical contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

wohl sein krank schlecht fühlen

Learn Next

Unbehagen Befindlichkeit Übelkeit Indisposition Symptom

Advanced

Weltschmerz Existenzialismus Symptomatik Psychosomatik Rekonvaleszenz

Grammar to Know

Nominalization of Infinitives

Das Sein, das Essen, das Unwohlsein (all are neuter).

Genitive with 'wegen'

Wegen des Unwohlseins (the -s ending is mandatory).

Prefix 'un-' for Negation

Glück -> Unglück, Wohl -> Unwohlsein.

Adjective Endings with Neuter Nouns

Ein leichtes Unwohlsein (Strong ending -es in nominative/accusative).

Verbs with 'über' + Accusative

Klagen über das Unwohlsein.

Examples by Level

Ich habe ein Unwohlsein im Bauch.

I have a discomfort in my belly.

Unwohlsein is the noun here.

Das Unwohlsein ist nicht gut.

The discomfort is not good.

Subject of the sentence.

Hast du ein Unwohlsein?

Do you have a feeling of being unwell?

Question form with 'haben'.

Ein kleines Unwohlsein ist okay.

A little discomfort is okay.

Adjective 'kleines' matches neuter 'Unwohlsein'.

Das Unwohlsein kommt vom Essen.

The discomfort comes from the food.

Preposition 'von' + Dative.

Ich fühle ein Unwohlsein.

I feel a discomfort.

Direct object in accusative.

Das Unwohlsein geht weg.

The discomfort goes away.

Simple present tense.

Mein Unwohlsein ist weg.

My discomfort is gone.

Possessive pronoun 'mein'.

Wegen des Unwohlseins bleibe ich zu Hause.

Because of the discomfort, I am staying at home.

Genitive case after 'wegen'.

Sie verspürt ein leichtes Unwohlsein.

She feels a slight discomfort.

Verb 'verspüren' is more formal than 'haben'.

Das Unwohlsein dauerte den ganzen Tag.

The discomfort lasted the whole day.

Präteritum (simple past) of 'dauern'.

Trinken Sie Tee gegen das Unwohlsein.

Drink tea against the discomfort.

Preposition 'gegen' + Accusative.

Sein Unwohlsein war nach dem Schlaf weg.

His discomfort was gone after sleep.

Possessive pronoun 'sein'.

Haben Sie oft dieses Unwohlsein?

Do you often have this discomfort?

Demonstrative pronoun 'dieses'.

Das Unwohlsein begann am Morgen.

The discomfort began in the morning.

Past tense 'begann'.

Ich schreibe eine Notiz über mein Unwohlsein.

I am writing a note about my discomfort.

Preposition 'über' + Accusative.

Ein plötzliches Unwohlsein zwang ihn zur Pause.

A sudden discomfort forced him to take a break.

Adjective 'plötzliches' provides detail.

Das allgemeine Unwohlsein der Passagiere war deutlich.

The general discomfort of the passengers was clear.

Genitive 'der Passagiere'.

Können Sie Ihr Unwohlsein genauer beschreiben?

Can you describe your discomfort more precisely?

Modal verb 'können'.

Nach der Impfung ist ein gewisses Unwohlsein normal.

After the vaccination, a certain discomfort is normal.

Adjective 'gewisses' (certain).

Das Unwohlsein verschwand nach einer Stunde wieder.

The discomfort disappeared again after an hour.

Verb 'verschwinden' in past tense.

Es gibt viele Ursachen für körperliches Unwohlsein.

There are many causes for physical discomfort.

Preposition 'für' + Accusative.

Trotz seines Unwohlseins ging er zur Arbeit.

Despite his discomfort, he went to work.

Preposition 'trotz' + Genitive.

Das Unwohlsein trat meistens nach fettigem Essen auf.

The discomfort mostly occurred after fatty food.

Separable verb 'auftreten'.

Ein diffuses Unwohlsein begleitete sie während der ganzen Reise.

A vague unease accompanied her during the whole journey.

Adjective 'diffuses' is typical for B2 level.

Der Redner musste seinen Vortrag wegen eines akuten Unwohlseins abbrechen.

The speaker had to stop his lecture due to sudden illness.

Genitive construction 'wegen eines akuten Unwohlseins'.

Das soziale Unwohlsein in der Gruppe war fast greifbar.

The social unease in the group was almost palpable.

Metaphorical use of 'Unwohlsein'.

Sie klagte über ein anhaltendes Unwohlsein in der Magengegend.

She complained of persistent discomfort in the stomach area.

Verb 'klagen über' + Accusative.

Das Unwohlsein könnte ein Symptom für Stress sein.

The discomfort could be a symptom of stress.

Subjunctive 'könnte' for possibility.

Es ist wichtig, das Unwohlsein ernst zu nehmen.

It is important to take the discomfort seriously.

Infinitive with 'zu'.

Das Unwohlsein legte sich, sobald sie an der frischen Luft war.

The discomfort subsided as soon as she was in the fresh air.

Reflexive verb 'sich legen' (to subside).

Ein Gefühl von Unwohlsein überkam ihn in dem dunklen Keller.

A feeling of unease overcame him in the dark cellar.

Verb 'überkommen' (to overcome).

Das Unwohlsein der Bevölkerung resultiert aus der politischen Instabilität.

The malaise of the population results from political instability.

Abstract use of the noun.

Medizinisch lässt sich dieses Unwohlsein oft schwer lokalisieren.

Medically, this discomfort is often difficult to localize.

Passive-like construction with 'lässt sich'.

Sein Unwohlsein äußerte sich in Form von kalten Schweißausbrüchen.

His discomfort manifested in the form of cold sweats.

Reflexive verb 'sich äußern in'.

Das Unwohlsein in der Kultur ist ein zentrales Thema der modernen Literatur.

The malaise in culture is a central theme of modern literature.

Cultural/literary context.

Ein schleichendes Unwohlsein deutete auf die herannahende Grippe hin.

A creeping unease pointed to the approaching flu.

Verb 'hindeuten auf' + Accusative.

Das Unwohlsein wurde durch die stickige Luft im Raum verstärkt.

The discomfort was intensified by the stuffy air in the room.

Passive voice with 'wurde... verstärkt'.

Oft ist psychisches Unwohlsein die Ursache für physische Schmerzen.

Often, psychological unease is the cause of physical pain.

Adjective 'psychisches' vs 'physische'.

Das Unwohlsein war so intensiv, dass er die Orientierung verlor.

The discomfort was so intense that he lost his orientation.

Consecutive clause with 'so... dass'.

Das existenzielle Unwohlsein ist ein Motiv, das sich durch Kafkas Werk zieht.

Existential malaise is a motif that runs through Kafka's work.

High-level literary analysis.

In der medizinischen Anamnese wird das Unwohlsein oft als unspezifisches Symptom geführt.

In medical history, discomfort is often listed as a non-specific symptom.

Technical vocabulary like 'Anamnese'.

Das Unwohlsein angesichts der ökologischen Krise nimmt weltweit zu.

The unease in the face of the ecological crisis is increasing worldwide.

Preposition 'angesichts' + Genitive.

Ein tief sitzendes Unwohlsein begleitete die gesellschaftlichen Umbrüche.

A deep-seated malaise accompanied the social upheavals.

Compound adjective 'tief sitzendes'.

Die Subjektivität des Unwohlseins erschwert eine objektive Diagnose.

The subjectivity of discomfort complicates an objective diagnosis.

Abstract noun 'Subjektivität'.

Man sprach von einer kollektiven Indisposition, einem allgemeinen Unwohlsein.

They spoke of a collective indisposition, a general malaise.

Apposition (re-naming the noun).

Das Unwohlsein war nur der Vorbote einer weitaus schwereren Erkrankung.

The discomfort was only the harbinger of a much more serious illness.

Metaphor 'Vorbote'.

Trotz medikamentöser Behandlung hielt das Unwohlsein hartnäckig an.

Despite medicinal treatment, the discomfort persisted stubbornly.

Adverb 'hartnäckig' (stubbornly).

Common Collocations

leichtes Unwohlsein

plötzliches Unwohlsein

allgemeines Unwohlsein

körperliches Unwohlsein

psychisches Unwohlsein

diffuses Unwohlsein

Unwohlsein verspüren

Gefühl von Unwohlsein

wegen Unwohlseins

akutes Unwohlsein

Common Phrases

Über Unwohlsein klagen

— To complain about feeling unwell. Common in medical reports.

Der Patient klagt über anhaltendes Unwohlsein.

Ein gewisses Unwohlsein

— A certain unease. Used when the feeling is hard to describe.

Es herrschte ein gewisses Unwohlsein während der Debatte.

Anzeichen von Unwohlsein

— Signs of discomfort or illness.

Er zeigte erste Anzeichen von Unwohlsein.

Das Unwohlsein bekämpfen

— To fight or treat the discomfort.

Hausmittel können helfen, das Unwohlsein zu bekämpfen.

Unwohlsein auslösen

— To trigger or cause discomfort.

Bestimmte Medikamente können Unwohlsein auslösen.

Unwohlsein ignorieren

— To ignore the feeling of being unwell.

Man sollte ein ständiges Unwohlsein nicht ignorieren.

Ein diffuses Unwohlsein

— A vague, non-specific unease.

Sie hatte ein diffuses Unwohlsein im Magen.

Unwohlsein nach dem Essen

— Discomfort after eating (indigestion/nausea).

Haben Sie oft Unwohlsein nach dem Essen?

Ein tiefes Unwohlsein

— A deep, significant unease.

Ein tiefes Unwohlsein begleitete seine Entscheidung.

Unwohlsein am Morgen

— Morning sickness or discomfort.

Unwohlsein am Morgen kann auf eine Schwangerschaft hindeuten.

Often Confused With

Unwohlsein vs Übelkeit

Übelkeit is specifically nausea (wanting to vomit), while Unwohlsein is a general feeling of being unwell.

Unwohlsein vs Unbehagen

Unbehagen is mostly psychological (feeling uncomfortable in a situation), while Unwohlsein is often physical.

Unwohlsein vs Krankheit

Krankheit is a specific illness (like the flu), while Unwohlsein is just the subjective feeling of malaise.

Idioms & Expressions

"Ein mulmiges Gefühl haben"

— To have a queasy or uneasy feeling in the stomach/gut.

Ich habe ein mulmiges Gefühl bei dieser Sache.

Informal

"Nicht ganz auf dem Damm sein"

— To not be quite 'on the dike' (to be under the weather).

Ich bin heute nicht ganz auf dem Damm.

Informal

"Sich unpässlich fühlen"

— To feel indisposed or slightly ill.

Sie fühlte sich heute unpässlich.

Formal

"Etwas liegt einem im Magen"

— Something is lying in one's stomach (bothering someone).

Das Problem liegt mir schwer im Magen.

Informal

"Bleich um die Nase sein"

— To be pale around the nose (to look sick/unwell).

Du bist ganz bleich um die Nase, ist dir unwohl?

Informal

"Neben der Kappe sein"

— To be 'beside the cap' (to feel dazed or unwell).

Nach der langen Reise war er völlig neben der Kappe.

Informal

"Einen flauen Magen haben"

— To have a queasy or empty-feeling stomach.

Vor der Prüfung hatte sie einen flauen Magen.

Informal

"Das Unbehagen im Nacken spüren"

— To feel discomfort/unease in the back of one's neck (fear).

Er spürte das Unbehagen im Nacken.

Literary

"Nicht in seiner Haut stecken wollen"

— To not want to be in someone else's skin (due to their discomfort).

Ich möchte jetzt nicht in seiner Haut stecken.

Informal

"Sich wie erschlagen fühlen"

— To feel as if one has been struck down (extremely unwell/tired).

Nach der Krankheit fühlte ich mich wie erschlagen.

Informal

Easily Confused

Unwohlsein vs Unwille

Starts with 'Un-' and looks similar.

Unwille means 'reluctance' or 'unwillingness,' not physical discomfort.

Er zeigte seinen Unwillen, die Aufgabe zu erledigen.

Unwohlsein vs Unruhe

Both describe a negative state of 'being'.

Unruhe is 'restlessness' or 'agitation,' focusing on movement and nerves.

Die innere Unruhe ließ ihn nicht schlafen.

Unwohlsein vs Unwesen

Nouns ending in '-wesen' can be confused with '-sein'.

Unwesen refers to 'nuisance' or 'mischief,' often related to ghosts or bad behavior.

Ein Gespenst trieb sein Unwesen im Schloss.

Unwohlsein vs Unmut

Describes a negative feeling.

Unmut is 'displeasure' or 'resentment,' an emotional reaction to something external.

Die Entscheidung löste allgemeinen Unmut aus.

Unwohlsein vs Unheil

Similar 'Un-' prefix and health-related root.

Unheil means 'calamity' or 'disaster,' something much more serious than discomfort.

Das Unheil nahm seinen Lauf.

Sentence Patterns

Ich habe [Noun].

Ich habe Unwohlsein.

Mir ist [Adjective].

Mir ist unwohl.

Ich verspüre ein [Adjective] Unwohlsein.

Ich verspüre ein leichtes Unwohlsein.

Wegen [Genitive Noun] ...

Wegen meines Unwohlseins bleibe ich hier.

Das [Adjective] Unwohlsein deutet auf [Accusative] hin.

Das diffuse Unwohlsein deutet auf Stress hin.

Die [Noun] des Unwohlseins ...

Die Phänomenologie des Unwohlseins ist komplex.

Er klagt über [Accusative].

Er klagt über starkes Unwohlsein.

Ein Gefühl von [Noun] ...

Ein Gefühl von Unwohlsein überkam sie.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in written and formal spoken German; less common in casual street slang.

Common Mistakes

Using 'der Unwohlsein' or 'die Unwohlsein'. → das Unwohlsein
All nouns ending in '-sein' are neuter without exception.
Saying 'Ich habe ein Unwohlsein' for a broken arm. → Ich habe eine Verletzung / Ich habe Schmerzen.
Unwohlsein is only for vague feelings of being unwell, not specific injuries.
Using 'Unwohlsein' to mean 'unwillingness'. → Unwille
Unwohlsein is about health/comfort; Unwille is about desire/volition.
Confusing 'Unwohlsein' with 'Übelkeit' in a specific medical context. → Übelkeit (if you want to vomit).
Übelkeit is a specific symptom; Unwohlsein is a general state.
Forgetting the '-s' in the genitive form 'wegen des Unwohlseins'. → wegen des Unwohlseins
Neuter and masculine nouns must take an -s in the genitive case.

Tips

Always Neuter

Remember that 'das Unwohlsein' is neuter. This is a rule for all nominalized verbs. If you remember 'das Sein' (being), you will never forget the gender of 'Unwohlsein'.

Doctor's Visits

When at a German doctor, use 'Unwohlsein' to describe symptoms that are hard to define. It is a professional way to start a medical consultation.

Spot the Root

Break the word down: Un (not) + Wohl (well). This makes it much easier to remember than trying to memorize it as a single 10-letter block.

Discretion

Use 'Unwohlsein' as a euphemism. If you don't want to tell your boss you have a stomach bug, 'Unwohlsein' is the perfect polite alternative.

German Angst

Understand that 'Unwohlsein' can be existential. In German literature, it often describes a character's reaction to a world they don't understand.

Pronunciation Pause

There is a very slight glottal stop between 'Un' and 'wohl'. Practice saying them as two distinct parts before merging them into one word.

Formal Contexts

You will hear this on the radio or TV news when events are canceled. It is the standard 'official' word for being sick.

Formal Emails

If you are writing an 'Entschuldigung' (excuse note), use 'wegen Unwohlseins'. It sounds much more educated than 'weil ich krank bin'.

Opposites

Associate it with 'Wohlbefinden'. They are two sides of the same coin. One is feeling great, the other is feeling 'off'.

Food Reactions

It is the most common word for the feeling you get after eating something that doesn't agree with you.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'UN-WHOLE-SIGN'. When you feel Unwohlsein, your health is 'UN-WHOLE' (not whole) and your body is giving you a 'SIGN' that something is wrong.

Visual Association

Imagine a person looking at a beautiful 'Wohl' (well) garden, but they are standing outside a fence marked 'UN-'. They are in the 'Unwohl' zone.

Word Web

Krankheit Übelkeit Schwindel Stress Magen Arzt Pause Gefühl

Challenge

Try to use 'Unwohlsein' in a sentence today instead of 'mir ist schlecht'. Tell someone: 'Ich habe ein leichtes Unwohlsein verspürt, als ich die Nachrichten sah.'

Word Origin

Derived from Middle High German 'un-wola-sîn'. It is a combination of the prefix 'un-' (negation), the adverb 'wohl' (from Old High German 'wola'), and the nominalized infinitive 'sein' (to be).

Original meaning: The state of not being well or not being in a good condition.

Germanic (Indo-European).

Cultural Context

It is a very safe, polite word. It does not carry any negative stigma and is appropriate for all age groups and social settings.

English speakers might just say 'I feel sick' or 'I feel off.' 'Unwohlsein' is more formal and sounds more like 'malaise.'

Sigmund Freud's 'Das Unbehagen in der Kultur' (often discussed alongside Unwohlsein). Thomas Mann's 'Der Zauberberg' (The Magic Mountain), where physical and mental Unwohlsein are explored. Franz Kafka's 'Die Verwandlung' (The Metamorphosis), where the protagonist's initial state is described as a vague Unwohlsein.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Doctor

Ich klage über Unwohlsein.
Wann hat das Unwohlsein begonnen?
Ist das Unwohlsein ständig da?
Haben Sie Medikamente gegen das Unwohlsein?

At Work

Ich muss mich wegen Unwohlseins abmelden.
Ein plötzliches Unwohlsein hat mich erwischt.
Kann ich wegen meines Unwohlseins früher gehen?
Das Unwohlsein macht das Arbeiten schwer.

In a Restaurant

Ich habe ein Unwohlsein nach der Vorspeise.
Das Essen hat Unwohlsein verursacht.
Haben Sie etwas gegen leichtes Unwohlsein?
Mir ist unwohl, ich möchte zahlen.

Traveling

Ich leide unter Reiseunwohlsein.
Das Unwohlsein kommt vom Wellengang.
Gibt es Tabletten gegen das Unwohlsein?
Das Unwohlsein vergeht an Land.

Social Situations

In dieser Menge verspüre ich Unwohlsein.
Ein Gefühl von Unwohlsein kam auf.
Das Unwohlsein war deutlich zu spüren.
Wir sollten über dieses Unwohlsein sprechen.

Conversation Starters

"Hatten Sie schon einmal ein Unwohlsein, für das es keinen Grund gab?"

"Was machen Sie normalerweise gegen ein plötzliches Unwohlsein?"

"Glauben Sie, dass Unwohlsein oft psychische Ursachen hat?"

"Wie beschreiben Sie einem Arzt Ihr Unwohlsein am besten?"

"Haben Sie Tipps gegen Unwohlsein während einer langen Reise?"

Journal Prompts

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du ein starkes Unwohlsein verspürt hast. Was war die Ursache?

Wie unterscheidet sich körperliches Unwohlsein von psychischem Unwohlsein in deiner Erfahrung?

Schreibe über einen Tag, an dem du trotz Unwohlseins etwas Wichtiges erledigt hast.

Reflektiere über den Begriff 'gesellschaftliches Unwohlsein'. Was bedeutet das für dich?

Welche Hausmittel helfen dir am besten, wenn du ein leichtes Unwohlsein hast?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, while it is very common for physical symptoms like nausea or dizziness, it can also describe a psychological feeling of unease or social discomfort. For example, you can feel 'Unwohlsein' in a room full of strangers.

Technically, the plural is 'die Unwohlsein', but it is almost never used. Germans prefer to use the singular form even if they are talking about multiple instances of discomfort.

No, that would be a major understatement. If you have a broken leg or a deep cut, use words like 'Verletzung' (injury) or 'Schmerz' (pain). 'Unwohlsein' is for vague, milder feelings.

Yes, the meaning is the same. 'Mir ist unwohl' uses the adjective and is more common in speech. 'Ich habe ein Unwohlsein' uses the noun and is slightly more formal.

In formal German, 'wegen' takes the genitive case: 'wegen des Unwohlseins'. In colloquial speech, you might hear the dative 'wegen dem Unwohlsein', but the genitive is preferred for correct grammar.

You can say 'Morgenübelkeit' or, more formally, 'morgendliches Unwohlsein'. Both are common.

It is the German word for motion sickness (sea sickness, car sickness). It literally means 'travel-not-well-being'.

Yes, 'gesellschaftliches Unwohlsein' or 'betriebliches Unwohlsein' can describe a general feeling of dissatisfaction or tension in a group.

Exactly. All German nouns that are formed from the infinitive of a verb (like 'das Sein', 'das Essen', 'das Leben') are neuter.

No, there is no single verb. You use the phrase 'sich unwohl fühlen' (to feel unwell).