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volljährig

A2 adjective #6,000 most common 14 min read

volljährig

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips volljährig in 30 Seconds

Explanation volljährig in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'volljährig' means you are 18 years old and an adult. You will mostly use it in very simple sentences with the verb 'sein' (to be). For example, 'Ich bin volljährig' (I am of age). It is helpful to know this word when you travel to Germany and see signs at cinemas or shops. You might see 'Nur für Volljährige', which means 'Only for adults'. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet. Just remember that it describes the age of 18. You can think of it as 'full years'. If you have 'full years', you are an adult. This is a very common word to hear on your 18th birthday. Friends might say 'Endlich volljährig!' which means 'Finally an adult!'. Learning this word early helps you understand basic rules about where you can go and what you can buy. It is a 'status' word. You are either volljährig or you are a child. In Germany, this is very important for things like buying a SIM card or renting a bike. Most of the time, you will just hear 'Bist du 18?' but 'Bist du volljährig?' is the more 'official' way to ask. Practice saying 'Ich bin volljährig' so you can use it if someone asks for your ID. It is a long word, but you can break it into 'voll' and 'jährig'.

At the A2 level, you start to use 'volljährig' in more varied sentences. You can talk about your family and friends. For example, 'Mein Sohn ist noch nicht volljährig' (My son is not yet of age). You will also learn to use it with the verb 'werden' (to become). 'Nächstes Jahr werde ich volljährig' (Next year I will become of age). This level focuses on everyday life, so you might use the word when talking about birthdays or driving licenses. You should also start to notice the opposite word: 'minderjährig' (underage). At A2, you are expected to understand simple signs and rules. If you see a sign that says 'Zutritt ab 18 Jahren / Volljährig', you know you can enter if you are an adult. You might also see it on websites. When you create an account, you often have to click a box that says 'Ich bin volljährig'. It's important to recognize the word in these contexts. You will also see it used with 'mit'. 'Mit 18 Jahren ist man volljährig.' This is a standard sentence pattern. You can also use it to describe people: 'Ein volljähriger Freund' (A friend who is of age). Remember that the ending of the word changes if it comes before a noun. But don't worry too much about perfect endings yet; the most important thing is that people understand you are talking about being 18.

By B1, you should be able to use 'volljährig' in discussions about rights and duties. You can explain the legal situation in your home country compared to Germany. For example, 'In meinem Land ist man erst mit 21 volljährig.' You will also encounter the word in more formal letters or news articles. You might read about 'volljährige Staatsbürger' (citizens of age) who are allowed to vote. At this level, you should be comfortable with the declension of the adjective. You can say 'Die Rechte volljähriger Personen' (the rights of persons of age) using the genitive case. You will also learn related terms like 'die Volljährigkeit' (the state of being of age). You can discuss the advantages and disadvantages of being volljährig, such as having to pay your own bills or being able to travel alone. You might also hear it in the context of 'Jugendschutz' (youth protection). In a B1 exam, you might have to read a text about a young person moving out of their parents' house because they are now volljährig. It's a key word for themes like 'Growing Up' and 'Independence'. You should also know that 'volljährig' is the legal term, while 'erwachsen' is the more general term for being grown up. A B1 student knows when to use which one.

At the B2 level, you use 'volljährig' in complex legal and social contexts. you might discuss the 'Eintritt der Volljährigkeit' (the attainment of the age of majority) and its impact on 'Unterhaltsansprüche' (claims for child support). You will understand more nuanced phrases like 'für volljährig erklären' (to declare someone of age). This is a legal process where a court gives a minor the rights of an adult. You will also see the word in employment contracts and insurance documents. For example, 'Volljährige Auszubildende' (apprentices of age) have different working hour regulations than minors. You can participate in debates about whether the voting age should be lowered to 16, which would mean you are 'wahlberechtigt' (eligible to vote) before you are 'volljährig'. At B2, you should also be aware of the historical context, such as the change in 1975 from 21 to 18. You can use the word in the context of 'Geschäftsfähigkeit' (legal capacity). A person who is volljährig has 'unbeschränkte Geschäftsfähigkeit'. This level requires a precise use of vocabulary, so you should never confuse 'volljährig' with 'erwachsen' in a formal essay. You might also use it in more abstract ways, like discussing the 'Volljährigkeit einer Gesellschaft' (the maturity of a society), though this is more metaphorical.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the legal and philosophical implications of 'volljährig'. You can read the 'Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch' (BGB) and understand § 2, which simply states: 'Die Volljährigkeit tritt mit der Vollendung des 18. Lebensjahres ein.' You can discuss how 'Volljährigkeit' relates to 'Mündigkeit' in the Kantian sense—the ability to use one's own understanding without guidance from another. You will encounter the word in academic texts about sociology, law, and history. You can analyze how the definition of being volljährig has changed over centuries and how it differs across cultures (e.g., the concept of 'coming of age' ceremonies). You should be able to use the word in highly formal contexts, such as legal correspondence or academic papers. You might explore the 'Strafmündigkeit' vs 'Volljährigkeit' debate in criminal law, specifically how 'Heranwachsende' are treated. Your vocabulary should include related high-level terms like 'Volljährigkeitserklärung' or 'Großjährigkeit' (in historical contexts). You can also use the word in complex sentence structures, like 'In Anbetracht der Tatsache, dass er bereits volljährig ist, muss er die Konsequenzen seines Handelns selbst tragen.' At C1, your use of the word is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker in both precision and register.

At the C2 level, you master 'volljährig' in all its legal, historical, and literary nuances. You can interpret legal precedents where 'Volljährigkeit' was a central issue. You understand the subtle differences between the 'Volljährigkeit' in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (where the age is the same but the legal frameworks differ slightly). You can discuss the term in the context of international private law (IPR), where the 'Personalstatut' determines which country's laws apply to a person's age of majority. You are comfortable using the word in literary analysis, perhaps discussing a character's 'Eintritt in die Volljährigkeit' as a metaphor for a loss of innocence or the acquisition of power. You can write sophisticated legal or sociological critiques of the current age limits. You understand the implications of 'Volljährigkeit' for 'Sorgerecht' (custody) and 'Betreuungsrecht' (guardianship). Your command of the word extends to its rarest forms and most specific legal applications. You can effortlessly switch between the dry, technical language of the law and the more fluid, metaphorical language of philosophy or literature when using this term. You are also aware of the historical development from the 'Venia aetatis' (the Roman law concept of granting adult rights early) to the modern 'Volljährigkeitserklärung'. For a C2 learner, 'volljährig' is not just a word for '18', but a complex legal and social construct.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

volljährig in 30 Seconds

Volljährig means being legally of age, which in Germany is 18 years old.
It grants full legal rights, such as voting and signing contracts.
It is the legal term, distinct from the more general term 'erwachsen'.
The direct opposite is 'minderjährig' (underage/minor).

The German adjective volljährig is a cornerstone of legal and social transition in German-speaking cultures. At its simplest level, it translates to being 'of age' or 'legally an adult.' In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, this status is almost universally attained at the age of 18. The word itself is a compound formed from 'voll' (full or complete) and 'jährig' (related to years or age), literally suggesting that one has completed the necessary number of years to be considered a full member of society with all attendant rights and responsibilities. This isn't just a biological marker; it is a profound legal shift that changes a person's relationship with the state, their parents, and the law. When a young person becomes volljährig, they transition from being under 'elterliche Sorge' (parental care/custody) to having 'unbeschränkte Geschäftsfähigkeit' (unrestricted legal capacity). This means they can sign contracts for apartments, take out loans, get married without parental consent, and participate in all levels of political elections. The term is used in formal legal documents, news reporting, and everyday conversation to distinguish between those who are still minors (minderjährig) and those who have crossed the threshold into adulthood.

Legal Status: Refers to the moment a person reaches the age of 18 and gains full legal rights in Germany.

Sobald du volljährig bist, darfst du ohne Erlaubnis deiner Eltern verreisen.

Historically, the age of majority in Germany was 21 until it was lowered to 18 on January 1, 1975. This change reflected a societal shift toward recognizing the independence of young adults earlier. In a social context, being volljährig is often celebrated with a large party, as it signifies the 'freedom' to go to clubs without a 'Muttizettel' (a parental permission slip) and the right to buy high-proof spirits or tobacco. However, it also brings the weight of the 'Erwachsenenstrafrecht' (adult criminal law), although in Germany, individuals between 18 and 21 can still be tried under juvenile law if their personality development is deemed to be still that of a teenager. This nuance makes the term volljährig specifically legalistic compared to the more general term 'erwachsen,' which describes physical or emotional maturity. You might be 'erwachsen' in your behavior at 16, but you are only 'volljährig' at 18.

In den USA ist man mit 18 volljährig, darf aber oft erst mit 21 Alkohol trinken.

Social Milestone: The 18th birthday is the most significant birthday in Germany because it marks the 'Eintritt der Volljährigkeit'.

Herzlichen Glückwunsch! Du bist jetzt endlich volljährig.

In professional environments, such as HR or banking, the term is essential. Banks cannot offer full credit services to those who are not volljährig without a legal guardian's signature. Similarly, in the workplace, certain labor protection laws (Jugendarbeitsschutzgesetz) cease to apply once an apprentice becomes volljährig. This transition is a binary state; there is no 'partially volljährig' in the eyes of the German Civil Code (BGB). You are either a minor or you are of age. This clarity helps in defining the boundaries of responsibility and autonomy in a highly structured legal system like Germany's.

Der Mietvertrag kann nur von einer volljährigen Person unterschrieben werden.

Administrative Usage: Often seen on forms where you must check a box confirming you are over 18.

Sind Sie bereits volljährig? Bitte bestätigen Sie Ihr Alter.

Using volljährig correctly requires understanding its role as an adjective. It can be used predicatively (after a verb like 'sein' or 'werden') or attributively (before a noun). When used predicatively, it does not change its ending. For example: 'Ich bin volljährig.' However, when placed before a noun, it must decline according to the gender, case, and number of the noun it describes. For instance: 'Ein volljähriger Schüler' (a male student of age), 'Eine volljährige Tochter' (a daughter of age), or 'Die volljährigen Zeugen' (the witnesses of age). Because it is a state of being rather than a quality that can be increased, it is rarely used in comparative or superlative forms. You cannot really be 'more of age' than someone else, although in poetic or metaphorical speech, one might say someone is 'reifer' (more mature).

Predicative Construction: Subject + sein/werden + volljährig.

Mein Bruder wird nächsten Monat endlich volljährig.

One of the most common sentence patterns involves the preposition 'mit'. For example, 'Mit 18 Jahren ist man in Deutschland volljährig.' This structure is used to define the age at which the status is achieved. Another common usage is in the negative: 'Noch nicht volljährig' (not yet of age). This is a polite and formal way to say someone is a minor. In legal contexts, you will often find the phrase 'Eintritt der Volljährigkeit' (the onset/attainment of the age of majority). This noun-heavy style is typical for bureaucratic German. For example: 'Mit dem Eintritt der Volljährigkeit erlischt die elterliche Sorge.'

Nur volljährige Personen haben Zutritt zu diesem Bereich des Casinos.

Attributive Adjective Endings: Remember to add -er, -e, -es, or -en depending on the noun's gender and case.

Wir brauchen die Unterschrift eines volljährigen Bürgen.

In conditional sentences, 'volljährig' often appears to set boundaries for actions. 'Falls Sie nicht volljährig sind, benötigen Sie ein Formular Ihrer Eltern.' This is frequently seen on websites with age-restricted content. You can also use it to describe a group: 'Die Gruppe besteht ausschließlich aus volljährigen Teilnehmern.' When talking about the past, you use the simple past or present perfect: 'Als er volljährig wurde, kaufte er sich sein erstes Auto.' Or 'Sie ist schon seit zwei Jahren volljährig.' Note that in German, we say 'seit zwei Jahren' (for two years) with the present tense to indicate a state that started in the past and continues today.

Seit ich volljährig bin, fühle ich mich viel verantwortungsbewusster.

Phrasal Usage: Commonly paired with 'erklären': 'Jemanden für volljährig erklären' (to declare someone of age, usually by a court).

Das Gericht kann einen Minderjährigen unter bestimmten Umständen für volljährig erklären.

The word volljährig is ubiquitous in German life, appearing in contexts ranging from the highly formal to the celebratory. One of the first places a young person encounters it is in school or during vocational training. Teachers and employers will often mention it when discussing liability or the ability to sign one's own excuse notes for absences. 'Sobald ihr volljährig seid, müsst ihr eure Entschuldigungen selbst unterschreiben,' is a standard phrase heard in German gymnasiums. It marks a transition from parental supervision to self-responsibility. In the banking sector, you will hear it the moment you try to open a 'Girokonto' (checking account) or apply for a credit card. The bank clerk will ask for your ID to verify if you are already volljährig, as minors require a 'gesetzlicher Vertreter' (legal representative) to co-sign.

At the Club/Bar: Bouncers and bartenders use it to enforce the 'Jugendschutzgesetz'.

Tut mir leid, dieser Film ist nur für Volljährige freigegeben.

In the media, the term is frequently used in reports about elections. 'Wahlberechtigt sind alle volljährigen Staatsbürger' is a standard line in news broadcasts before a 'Bundestagswahl' (federal election). It defines the democratic community. You will also hear it in legal dramas or real-life court reporting, particularly regarding the 'Eintritt der Volljährigkeit' in inheritance cases or child support disputes. When a child becomes volljährig, the nature of child support (Unterhalt) changes, often requiring the child to claim it directly from the parents rather than through one parent representing them. This legal reality makes the word a frequent topic in family law discussions.

Bist du schon volljährig? Ich brauche deinen Ausweis für den Mietwagen.

Online Shopping: Age verification prompts on websites selling alcohol, games, or tobacco.

Mit dem Klick auf 'Kaufen' bestätigen Sie, dass Sie volljährig sind.

Finally, in everyday social life, parents often use the word with a mix of pride and melancholy. 'Jetzt ist mein kleiner Junge volljährig,' a mother might say at a graduation party. It signals the end of an era of protection and the beginning of a relationship between two adults. In contrast, friends might use it as a challenge or a joke: 'Du bist jetzt volljährig, du musst die Rechnung bezahlen!' (You're of age now, you have to pay the bill!). Whether it's the cold language of a contract or the warm sentiment of a family gathering, volljährig is the word that marks the boundary of childhood in the German-speaking world.

Es ist schwer zu glauben, dass alle meine Kinder mittlerweile volljährig sind.

Political Discourse: Discussions about lowering the voting age often use the phrase 'Volljährigkeit ab 16'.

Manche Politiker fordern, dass man schon vor der Volljährigkeit wählen darf.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing volljährig with the general word 'erwachsen'. While both can translate to 'adult' in English, their usage in German is distinct. 'Erwachsen' describes someone who is physically or mentally grown up. You can call a 17-year-old 'sehr erwachsen' (very mature), but you cannot call them 'volljährig' until their 18th birthday. Conversely, a 40-year-old who acts like a child is 'volljährig' (legally an adult) but perhaps not 'erwachsen' (mature). Using 'erwachsen' in a legal context where 'volljährig' is required can make a sentence sound imprecise or amateurish. For example, a contract shouldn't say 'nur für Erwachsene' if it specifically refers to the legal age of 18; it should say 'nur für Volljährige'.

Confusion with 'Mündig': 'Mündig' refers to the capacity to make one's own decisions, which is related but not identical to 'volljährig'.

Mistake: Er ist 18, er ist jetzt großjährig.
Correction: Er ist 18, er ist jetzt volljährig.

Another mistake is the literal translation of 'of age'. Some learners try to say 'von Alter', which is incorrect. In German, you are either 'volljährig' or you 'haben das Alter der Volljährigkeit erreicht'. Another pitfall is the spelling of the suffix '-jährig'. Remember that it comes from 'Jahr' (year) and always has an 'ä' because of the umlaut shift in the adjective form. Some learners also forget to decline the adjective when it's used before a noun. Saying 'ein volljährig Mann' is wrong; it must be 'ein volljähriger Mann'. Furthermore, learners often confuse 'volljährig' with 'mündig'. While 'volljährig' is strictly about age, 'mündig' is about the intellectual and legal ability to act (like 'religionsmündig' at 14, where you can choose your own religion).

Mistake: Ich bin volljährig seit drei Jahren.
Correction: Ich bin seit drei Jahren volljährig.

Word Order: In German, the 'seit' phrase usually comes before the adjective in a predicative sentence.

Mistake: Bist du volljährig von 18?
Correction: Bist du mit 18 volljährig?

Finally, there is a rare word 'großjährig' which was used historically but is now obsolete in modern German. Using it might make you sound like you've been reading 19th-century novels. Stick to 'volljährig' for all modern legal and social contexts. Also, be careful with the word 'minderjährig' (minor). It is the direct opposite. Some learners try to invent words like 'unvolljährig', which exists but is much less common than 'minderjährig'. In official documents, 'minderjährig' is the standard term. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate German bureaucracy and social life with much more confidence.

Der Ausweis zeigt, dass er noch minderjährig ist, nicht 'unvolljährig'.

False Friend Warning: Don't use 'alt' (old) when you mean 'volljährig' in a legal sense. 'Ich bin alt' just means 'I am old'.

Exploring the synonyms and related terms for volljährig helps to fine-tune your German communication. The most common alternative is erwachsen. As discussed, 'erwachsen' is broader and refers to physical, emotional, and social maturity. You would use 'erwachsen' when talking about someone's behavior ('Er verhält sich sehr erwachsen') or their life stage in a non-legal sense. Another important term is mündig. This word specifically refers to the capacity to act and make decisions. In legal terms, 'Geschäftsfähigkeit' (legal capacity to conduct business) is the technical result of being volljährig. A person who is 'mündig' is seen as capable of exercising their rights. Historically, 'mündig' and 'volljährig' were used almost interchangeably, but today 'mündig' often carries a more philosophical or political connotation, as in 'der mündige Bürger' (the responsible/informed citizen).

Volljährig vs. Erwachsen: Volljährig is about the law (18+); Erwachsen is about the state of being (grown up).

Obwohl er volljährig ist, benimmt er sich überhaupt nicht erwachsen.

Then there is the term strafmündig. This is a specific legal age (14 in Germany) at which a person can be held responsible for crimes. It is different from being volljährig. Another related concept is religionsmündig (also at 14), which allows a child to decide their religious affiliation. In very formal or archaic German, you might encounter großjährig, but it is effectively dead in modern parlance. If you want to describe someone who is 'nearly' of age, you might use fast volljährig or heranwachsend. In German criminal law, 'Heranwachsende' are those between 18 and 21, a specific category that sits between 'Jugendliche' (under 18) and 'Erwachsene' (over 21 in the context of certain sentencing guidelines).

Der mündige Wähler informiert sich vor der Wahl gründlich.

Antonyms: The direct legal opposite is 'minderjährig'. Social opposites include 'kindisch' (childish) or 'unreif' (immature).

Für Minderjährige gelten strengere Arbeitszeiten als für Volljährige.

Finally, consider phrases like alt genug (old enough). While simple, it's very common in everyday speech. 'Du bist jetzt alt genug, um deine eigenen Entscheidungen zu treffen.' This is less formal than saying 'Du bist jetzt volljährig.' In business, you might see zeichnungsberechtigt (authorized to sign), which implies being volljährig but adds the specific power to represent a company. Understanding these layers of meaning—from the biological 'erwachsen' to the legal 'volljährig' and the intellectual 'mündig'—will allow you to express yourself with the precision that German is famous for. Choosing the right word demonstrates not just vocabulary knowledge, but an understanding of German culture and law.

Ab heute bist du alt genug, um Auto zu fahren!

Register Summary: Volljährig: Formal/Legal. Erwachsen: Neutral/Biological. Mündig: Formal/Intellectual. Alt genug: Informal.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the Middle Ages, the age of majority varied wildly, often depending on when a boy could carry a sword or a girl could manage a household. The fixed age of 18 is a modern legal standard.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈfɔljɛːʁɪç/

US /ˈfɔljɛːrɪk/

The primary stress is on the first syllable: VOLL-jäh-rig.

Rhymes With

dreijährig vierjährig langjährig diesjährig alljährig mehrjährig minderjährig achtzehnjährig

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'v' like an English 'v' (it should be 'f').
Missing the umlaut sound 'ä' (should be like 'e' in 'bed').
Pronouncing 'ig' as 'ig' instead of the softer 'ich' sound.
Stressing the second syllable.
Forgetting the 'j' sound after 'voll'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts, especially on forms.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct adjective endings.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation of 'v' and 'j' needs practice.

Listening 2/5

Clearly articulated in formal contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

voll Jahr alt Kind sein

Learn Next

minderjährig mündig Geschäftsfähigkeit Wahlrecht Unterschrift

Advanced

Venia aetatis Heranwachsender Jugendstrafrecht Sorgerecht

Grammar to Know

Adjective Declension

Ein volljähriger (masc) Zeuge, eine volljährige (fem) Zeugin.

Substantivized Adjectives

Der Volljährige (the male adult), die Volljährigen (the adults).

Preposition 'mit' + Age

Mit 18 Jahren ist man volljährig.

Verbs with Adjectives

Volljährig sein vs. volljährig werden.

Word Formation with -jährig

achtzehnjährig, langjährig, mehrjährig.

Examples by Level

Ich bin 18, ich bin volljährig.

I am 18, I am of age.

Simple predicative use of the adjective.

Bist du schon volljährig?

Are you already of age?

Question form with 'sein'.

Er ist noch nicht volljährig.

He is not yet of age.

Negative with 'noch nicht'.

Endlich volljährig!

Finally of age!

Exclamation, common on birthdays.

Meine Schwester ist volljährig.

My sister is of age.

Subject-verb-adjective.

Sind Sie volljährig?

Are you (formal) of age?

Formal 'Sie' form.

Wir sind alle volljährig.

We are all of age.

Plural form.

Hier dürfen nur Volljährige rein.

Only people of age are allowed in here.

Substantivized adjective (noun).

Mit 18 Jahren wird man volljährig.

One becomes of age at 18.

Use with 'werden' to show transition.

Ich brauche eine volljährige Person als Zeugen.

I need a person of age as a witness.

Attributive use with feminine ending -e.

Mein Bruder ist seit gestern volljährig.

My brother has been of age since yesterday.

Use with 'seit' and present tense.

Darf man das, wenn man volljährig ist?

Is one allowed to do that if one is of age?

Subordinate clause with 'wenn'.

Alle volljährigen Schüler dürfen mitkommen.

All students of age are allowed to come along.

Attributive plural with -en ending.

Sie ist die einzige volljährige Tochter.

She is the only daughter of age.

Attributive use with 'die'.

Wann bist du volljährig geworden?

When did you become of age?

Perfect tense with 'werden'.

Er ist volljährig, aber er wohnt noch bei den Eltern.

He is of age, but he still lives with his parents.

Contrast with 'aber'.

Volljährige Bürger dürfen in Deutschland wählen.

Citizens of age are allowed to vote in Germany.

Attributive plural adjective.

Die Volljährigkeit bringt viele neue Pflichten mit sich.

The state of being of age brings many new duties.

Noun form: die Volljährigkeit.

Man gilt gesetzlich als volljährig, sobald man 18 ist.

One is legally considered of age as soon as one is 18.

Use of 'gelten als'.

Hast du schon deine Volljährigkeit gefeiert?

Have you already celebrated your 18th birthday/coming of age?

Noun used as an object.

Er ist zwar volljährig, aber noch nicht sehr reif.

He is indeed of age, but not very mature yet.

Contrast between legal and mental state.

Nur volljährige Personen können diesen Vertrag unterschreiben.

Only persons of age can sign this contract.

Modal verb with attributive adjective.

Seit dem Eintritt der Volljährigkeit ist er für sich selbst verantwortlich.

Since attaining the age of majority, he is responsible for himself.

Formal phrase 'Eintritt der Volljährigkeit'.

In den meisten europäischen Ländern ist man mit 18 volljährig.

In most European countries, one is of age at 18.

Prepositional phrase 'mit 18'.

Mit Erreichen der Volljährigkeit erlischt das Sorgerecht der Eltern.

Upon reaching the age of majority, the parents' custody ends.

Formal legal terminology.

Volljährige Auszubildende unterliegen nicht mehr dem Jugendarbeitsschutzgesetz.

Apprentices of age are no longer subject to the Youth Labor Protection Act.

Specific legal context.

Das Gericht kann einen Minderjährigen unter Umständen für volljährig erklären.

The court can, under certain circumstances, declare a minor of age.

Phrase 'für volljährig erklären'.

Die Unterschrift eines volljährigen Bürgen ist erforderlich.

The signature of a guarantor of age is required.

Genitive case: eines volljährigen Bürgen.

Es gibt eine Debatte darüber, ob man schon vor der Volljährigkeit wählen sollte.

There is a debate about whether one should vote before reaching the age of majority.

Preposition 'vor' with dative.

Sobald die Kinder volljährig sind, ändert sich der Unterhaltsanspruch.

As soon as the children are of age, the claim for support changes.

Conjunction 'sobald'.

In einigen Kulturen gibt es spezielle Rituale zur Volljährigkeit.

In some cultures, there are special rituals for coming of age.

Cultural context.

Die Volljährigkeit wurde in Deutschland 1975 von 21 auf 18 Jahre gesenkt.

The age of majority was lowered in Germany in 1975 from 21 to 18 years.

Passive voice with historical facts.

Die Volljährigkeit markiert den Übergang zur uneingeschränkten Geschäftsfähigkeit.

The age of majority marks the transition to unrestricted legal capacity.

High-level legal vocabulary.

Trotz seiner Volljährigkeit wird er oft noch wie ein Kind behandelt.

Despite his being of age, he is often still treated like a child.

Preposition 'trotz' with genitive.

Die Rechtsfolgen der Volljährigkeit sind weitreichend und vielfältig.

The legal consequences of being of age are extensive and diverse.

Formal academic style.

Er strebt die vorzeitige Volljährigkeitserklärung durch das Familiengericht an.

He is seeking an early declaration of majority through the family court.

Compound noun: Volljährigkeitserklärung.

Das Gesetz knüpft bestimmte Rechte an das Erreichen der Volljährigkeit.

The law links certain rights to reaching the age of majority.

Verb 'knüpfen an'.

Die Volljährigkeit ist eine notwendige, aber keine hinreichende Bedingung für Reife.

Being of age is a necessary but not sufficient condition for maturity.

Logical/philosophical phrasing.

Viele junge Erwachsene empfinden den Tag ihrer Volljährigkeit als Befreiungsschlag.

Many young adults perceive the day of their coming of age as a liberating blow.

Reflexive verb 'empfinden als'.

Die Volljährigkeit entlässt den Jugendlichen aus der elterlichen Gewalt.

The age of majority releases the youth from parental authority.

Metaphorical use of 'entlassen'.

Die Divergenz zwischen biologischer Reife und juristischer Volljährigkeit ist ein zentrales Thema der Jugendsoziologie.

The divergence between biological maturity and legal majority is a central theme of youth sociology.

Academic terminology: Divergenz, juristisch.

Mit dem Schlag der Mitternachtsstunde trat sie in die Volljährigkeit ein.

With the stroke of midnight, she entered into the age of majority.

Literary/dramatic style.

Das IPR bestimmt, welches Heimatrecht für die Beurteilung der Volljährigkeit maßgeblich ist.

Private International Law determines which national law is decisive for the assessment of majority.

Specialized legal acronym (IPR).

Die Volljährigkeit ist das rechtliche Korrelat zur individuellen Autonomie.

The age of majority is the legal correlate to individual autonomy.

Sophisticated vocabulary: Korrelat, Autonomie.

In der Literatur wird die Volljährigkeit oft als das Ende der unschuldigen Kindheit stilisiert.

In literature, the coming of age is often stylized as the end of innocent childhood.

Passive voice with 'stilisiert als'.

Die Herabsetzung des Volljährigkeitsalters war eine Zäsur in der bundesdeutschen Rechtsgeschichte.

The lowering of the age of majority was a turning point in West German legal history.

Historical term: Zäsur.

Die Volljährigkeit fungiert als Zäsur zwischen Schutzbedürftigkeit und Eigenverantwortung.

The age of majority functions as a turning point between the need for protection and personal responsibility.

Verb 'fungieren als'.

Das Erreichen der Volljährigkeit impliziert die vollumfängliche Teilhabe am demokratischen Prozess.

Reaching the age of majority implies full participation in the democratic process.

Formal verb 'implizieren'.

Common Collocations

volljährig werden

gesetzlich volljährig

für volljährig erklären

endlich volljährig

noch nicht volljährig

seit kurzem volljährig

volljähriger Sohn

Eintritt der Volljährigkeit

volljährige Person

fast volljährig

Common Phrases

Ab 18 ist man volljährig.

— At 18, one is of age. A basic rule of German law.

In Deutschland gilt: Ab 18 ist man volljährig.

Ich bin schon volljährig.

— I am already of age. Used to claim rights or access.

Ich darf das kaufen, ich bin schon volljährig.

Wenn du volljährig bist...

— When you are of age... Used by parents to set future conditions.

Wenn du volljährig bist, kannst du machen, was du willst.

Nur für Volljährige.

— Only for adults. Seen on restricted content or events.

Dieser Club ist nur für Volljährige.

Bist du überhaupt volljährig?

— Are you even of age? Often used skeptically.

Du siehst so jung aus, bist du überhaupt volljährig?

Seit er volljährig ist...

— Since he has been of age... Explaining a change in behavior.

Seit er volljährig ist, reist er viel.

Sobald man volljährig wird...

— As soon as one becomes of age... Discussing legal changes.

Sobald man volljährig wird, darf man wählen.

Er ist zwar volljährig, aber...

— He is indeed of age, but... Adding a qualification about maturity.

Er ist zwar volljährig, aber er braucht noch Hilfe.

Die Volljährigkeit erreichen.

— To reach the age of majority. Formal expression.

Er hat die Volljährigkeit gestern erreicht.

Für die Volljährigkeit unterschreiben.

— To sign for adulthood (metaphorical/informal).

Er hat endlich für seine Volljährigkeit unterschrieben.

Often Confused With

volljährig vs erwachsen

Erwachsen is biological/mental; volljährig is strictly legal.

volljährig vs mündig

Mündig is about the ability to judge and act, not just age.

volljährig vs strafmündig

Strafmündig is the age of 14, not 18.

Idioms & Expressions

"Auf eigenen Beinen stehen"

— To stand on one's own feet. To be independent, often starting when one is volljährig.

Jetzt bist du volljährig und musst auf eigenen Beinen stehen.

neutral

"Den Kinderschuhen entwachsen sein"

— To have outgrown one's baby shoes. To no longer be a child.

Er ist den Kinderschuhen längst entwachsen.

figurative

"Seines Glückes Schmied sein"

— To be the smith of one's own fortune. Being responsible for one's life as an adult.

Als Volljähriger bist du nun deines Glückes Schmied.

literary

"Die Flügel ausbreiten"

— To spread one's wings. To leave home and start an independent life.

Mit der Volljährigkeit ist es Zeit, die Flügel auszubreiten.

poetic

"Voll im Leben stehen"

— To be fully in life. To be an active, mature adult.

Sie ist volljährig und steht schon voll im Leben.

neutral

"Den Ernst des Lebens kennenlernen"

— To get to know the serious side of life. Often said when childhood ends.

Willkommen in der Volljährigkeit, jetzt lernst du den Ernst des Lebens kennen.

colloquial

"Alt genug sein"

— To be old enough. Often used as a justification for actions.

Ich bin alt genug, um das selbst zu entscheiden.

neutral

"Kein unbeschriebenes Blatt mehr sein"

— To no longer be a blank sheet. To have experience (or a record) as an adult.

Er ist zwar gerade erst volljährig, aber kein unbeschriebenes Blatt mehr.

neutral

"Sich die Hörner abstoßen"

— To knock off one's horns. To sow one's wild oats as a young adult.

Er ist jetzt volljährig und muss sich erst mal die Hörner abstoßen.

informal

"Herr seiner selbst sein"

— To be master of oneself. To have full autonomy.

Endlich volljährig, endlich Herr seiner selbst.

formal

Easily Confused

volljährig vs minderjährig

It's the opposite.

Minderjährig means under 18; volljährig means 18 or older.

Kinder sind minderjährig, Erwachsene sind volljährig.

volljährig vs großjährig

Similar meaning.

Großjährig is an outdated synonym for volljährig.

Heutzutage sagt niemand mehr großjährig.

volljährig vs religionsmündig

Both involve the suffix -mündig/age.

Religionsmündig is at 14 and only for religion.

Mit 14 ist man religionsmündig, aber noch nicht volljährig.

volljährig vs vollwertig

Starts with 'voll'.

Vollwertig means 'full-value' or 'complete' (e.g., food).

Das ist eine vollwertige Mahlzeit, hat nichts mit Alter zu tun.

volljährig vs langjährig

Ends with -jährig.

Langjährig means 'for many years'.

Er ist ein langjähriger Freund.

Sentence Patterns

Ich bin [volljährig].

Ich bin volljährig.

Er wird bald [volljährig].

Er wird bald volljährig.

Seit ich [volljährig] bin, [verb] ich.

Seit ich volljährig bin, wähle ich.

Mit 18 ist man [volljährig].

Mit 18 ist man volljährig.

Nur [volljährige] Personen dürfen [verb].

Nur volljährige Personen dürfen eintreten.

Der Eintritt der [Volljährigkeit].

Der Eintritt der Volljährigkeit ist wichtig.

Trotz seiner [Volljährigkeit]...

Trotz seiner Volljährigkeit ist er unreif.

Die juristische [Volljährigkeit] vs. biologische Reife.

Die juristische Volljährigkeit ist ein Fixpunkt.

Word Family

Nouns

die Volljährigkeit

der/die Volljährige

Verbs

für volljährig erklären

Adjectives

volljährig

minderjährig

großjährig

das Alter

die Mündigkeit

das Gesetz

der Erwachsene

die Reife

How to Use It

frequency

High in legal, administrative, and milestone-related contexts.

Common Mistakes

Ich bin volljährig von 18. → Ich bin mit 18 volljährig.
We use 'mit' to indicate the age at which something happens.
Er ist ein volljährig Mann. → Er ist ein volljähriger Mann.
Adjectives before nouns need endings.
Bist du erwachsen? (when asking for ID) → Bist du volljährig?
In a legal/age-check context, 'volljährig' is the correct term.
Volljährig seit 2020. → Seit 2020 volljährig.
In German, the time phrase usually precedes the adjective.
Die Volljährigkeit ist 18. → Das Volljährigkeitsalter ist 18.
Volljährigkeit is the state, not the number itself.

Tips

Adjective Endings

Don't forget to add -er, -e, or -es when using 'volljährig' before a noun. Example: 'Ein volljährigER Mann'.

Opposites

Learn 'minderjährig' at the same time. They are the two sides of the legal coin.

Legal Use

Use 'volljährig' in any context involving contracts, banking, or official documents.

18th Birthday

In Germany, 18 is the big one. 'Volljährigkeit' is the word for this milestone.

The V sound

Always pronounce the 'V' as an 'F'. It's one of the most common mistakes for English speakers.

Noun Form

Use 'die Volljährigkeit' (the majority) to sound more advanced in your writing.

Full Years

Remember the word as 'Full-Year-y'. You have the full number of years.

Maturity

If you want to say someone is mature, use 'reif'. If you mean their age, use 'volljährig'.

B1/B2 Exams

This word often appears in reading sections about youth and society. Make sure you can recognize it quickly.

History

Remember that before 1975, you had to wait until 21 to be volljährig in Germany!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think: 'Full of years'. If you are 'voll' (full) of 'Jahr' (years), you are an adult.

Visual Association

Imagine a glass that is 'voll' (full) with 18 candles.

Word Web

18 BGB Wählen Vertrag Auto Ausweis Erwachsen Mündig

Challenge

Try to find three things in your house that you can only do or own because you are volljährig (like a lease, a credit card, or certain media).

Word Origin

Derived from Middle High German 'vol' (full) and 'jār' (year). The suffix '-ig' creates the adjective.

Original meaning: Having completed the full number of years required by law.

Germanic.

Cultural Context

Be aware that 'volljährig' is a legal term; avoid using it to judge someone's mental health or maturity level, which is better described by 'reif' or 'unreif'.

In the US, you are 'of age' at 18 for most things, but 21 for alcohol. In Germany, 'volljährig' covers almost everything at 18.

The German Civil Code (BGB) § 2 Songs about 'Endlich 18' Coming-of-age films like 'Crazy'

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Banking

Konto eröffnen
Kreditwürdigkeit
Unterschrift
Ausweis vorlegen

Nightlife

Ausweiskontrolle
Zutritt erst ab 18
Alkohol kaufen
Türsteher

Law

Vertrag abschließen
Wahlrecht
Eherecht
Haftung

Family

Auszug von zu Hause
Unterhalt
Selbstständigkeit
Geburtstag

Education

Entschuldigung selbst schreiben
Ausbildungsvertrag
Studienbeginn
Haftung bei Unfällen

Conversation Starters

"Was hast du an dem Tag gemacht, als du volljährig wurdest?"

"Findest du, dass 18 das richtige Alter ist, um volljährig zu sein?"

"Was ist das Wichtigste, das man darf, wenn man volljährig ist?"

"Sollte man schon mit 16 volljährig sein dürfen?"

"Fühlst du dich erwachsen, seit du volljährig bist?"

Journal Prompts

Schreibe über deine Erwartungen an die Volljährigkeit, bevor du 18 wurdest.

Beschreibe die rechtlichen Unterschiede zwischen einem Minderjährigen und einem Volljährigen in deinem Land.

Reflektiere über einen Moment, in dem du froh warst, volljährig zu sein.

Diskutiere, ob die Volljährigkeit heute noch die gleiche Bedeutung hat wie früher.

Erzähle eine Geschichte über jemanden, der volljährig ist, sich aber wie ein Kind benimmt.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

In Deutschland ist man mit der Vollendung des 18. Lebensjahres volljährig. Das bedeutet an seinem 18. Geburtstag.

Man darf wählen, Verträge ohne Eltern unterschreiben, heiraten, und hochprozentigen Alkohol kaufen.

Nein, mit 16 ist man noch minderjährig, auch wenn man in manchen Bundesländern schon bei Kommunalwahlen wählen darf.

Volljährig ist ein juristischer Status (18+). Erwachsen beschreibt meistens die körperliche oder geistige Reife.

Ja, in einigen Ländern ist man früher oder später volljährig, aber in Europa ist 18 der Standard.

Früher gab es die 'Volljährigkeitserklärung', heute ist das in Deutschland fast nicht mehr möglich, da die Grenze schon bei 18 liegt.

Man erhält alle bürgerlichen Rechte und Pflichten und die elterliche Sorge endet automatisch.

In Deutschland kann man mit 17 den Führerschein machen (begleitetes Fahren), aber allein fahren darf man erst, wenn man volljährig ist.

Nein, aber das Jugendstrafrecht kann bis 21 angewendet werden, danach gilt immer das Erwachsenenstrafrecht.

Man sagt 'minderjährig' oder 'noch nicht volljährig'.