Esta página no seu idioma

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

中文

हिन्दी

A2 noun #4,500 mais comum 10 min de leitura

der Ehemann

Top 4,500

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas der Ehemann em 30 segundos

Explicação der Ehemann in your Level:

At the A1 level, you learn 'der Ehemann' as a basic family member word. You should know that it means 'husband' and that the plural is 'die Ehemänner'. At this stage, you mostly use it with possessive pronouns like 'mein' (my) or 'dein' (your). For example: 'Mein Ehemann heißt Thomas.' You should also recognize it in simple family trees. The focus is on identifying the person and their relationship to you or others. You might confuse it with 'Mann', which is okay at this level, but try to remember that 'Ehemann' is the more specific word for someone you are married to. You will also learn the feminine version, 'die Ehefrau'. Understanding the gender is key because it determines the article 'der'. Practice saying the word clearly, paying attention to the 'h' which is silent, making the 'E' sound long: [ˈeːəman].

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'der Ehemann' in more varied contexts, such as describing daily routines or talking about past events. You should be able to decline the word in the accusative and dative cases. For example, 'Ich habe meinem Ehemann ein Buch gekauft' (Dative) or 'Ich suche meinen Ehemann' (Accusative). You will also encounter the word in more formal contexts, such as short texts about famous couples or in basic administrative forms. You should start to distinguish between 'mein Mann' (informal/common) and 'mein Ehemann' (formal). You might also learn compound words like 'Ehering' (wedding ring) or 'Ehepaar' (married couple). You should be comfortable answering questions about your family status using the word 'verheiratet' (married) and then identifying your 'Ehemann'.

At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more complex social and professional situations. You will use 'der Ehemann' when discussing legal rights, social responsibilities, or more detailed personal stories. You should be able to use the genitive case correctly: 'Die Hobbys meines Ehemanns sind Wandern und Lesen.' You will also learn about the cultural role of the husband in German-speaking societies, including topics like 'Elternzeit' (parental leave) for husbands. You should be able to participate in discussions about marriage and family life, using synonyms like 'Lebensgefährte' or 'Partner' to add variety to your speech. Your vocabulary will expand to include related terms like 'Eheschließung' (marriage ceremony) and 'Ehescheidung' (divorce), where 'Ehemann' remains the central figure for the male party.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

At the B2 level, you should be able to understand and use 'der Ehemann' in abstract and technical discussions. This includes legal texts, sociological studies, and complex literature. You will encounter the word in debates about gender roles, equality in marriage, and the legal definition of a spouse. You should be aware of the nuances between 'Ehemann', 'Gatte', and 'Ehegatte'. For instance, you should know that 'Ehegatte' is the preferred term in legal codes. You can express detailed opinions about the expectations society has for an 'Ehemann' today versus fifty years ago. Your grammar should be near-perfect when declining the word, even in complex sentences with multiple clauses. You will also recognize the word in idiomatic expressions or more sophisticated literary descriptions.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the word's historical and stylistic connotations. You can analyze how the portrayal of the 'Ehemann' has changed in German literature from the Romantic era to the present day. You understand the subtle shift in tone when a speaker chooses 'Gemahl' over 'Ehemann' and can use these variations to achieve a specific rhetorical effect. You are comfortable with the legal intricacies involving 'Ehemänner' in the German Civil Code (BGB) and can discuss topics like 'Erbrecht' (inheritance law) or 'Unterhaltszahlungen' (alimony) with precision. Your use of the word is natural, and you can pick up on irony, sarcasm, or extreme formality when the word is used in media or conversation. You can also handle complex word formations and rare synonyms.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of the word 'Ehemann' and its entire semantic field. You can interpret the word within the context of high-level academic discourse, legal precedents, and classical philosophy. You are aware of the etymological roots of 'Ehe' (originally meaning 'law' or 'eternity') and how this informs the concept of the 'Ehemann'. You can write sophisticated essays or give presentations on the evolution of the 'Ehemann' as a legal and social construct. You navigate the most formal registers with ease and can appreciate and use the word in poetry or high-style prose. There are no nuances of the word—whether legal, emotional, or social—that you do not grasp. You can also identify regional variations in how the term might be perceived across different German-speaking countries.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

der Ehemann em 30 segundos

A formal noun for 'husband' in German.
Used in legal, official, and respectful contexts.
The plural is 'die Ehemänner' (irregular).
Commonly replaced by 'mein Mann' in casual daily speech.

The German noun der Ehemann is a composite word formed from die Ehe (marriage) and der Mann (man). While the word Mann can refer to any male adult or simply a husband in a possessive context (e.g., 'mein Mann'), Ehemann specifically denotes the legal and formal status of a man in a marriage. It is the precise term used in legal documents, formal introductions, and sociological discussions to distinguish a spouse from a boyfriend or a generic male person.

Formal Context: In official settings, such as tax forms, census data, or legal contracts, 'Ehemann' is the standard designation. It carries a weight of permanence and legal obligation that the casual 'Mann' might omit in certain linguistic nuances.
Social Introduction: When introducing someone at a formal gala or a professional event, using 'Ehemann' signals a level of respect and clarity regarding the relationship. For example, 'Darf ich Ihnen meinen Ehemann vorstellen?' sounds more distinguished than the shorter version.

Ein loyaler Ehemann unterstützt seine Partnerin in allen Lebenslagen.

Historically, the term has evolved alongside social changes. In modern Germany, while the traditional role of the 'Ehemann' as the sole provider has shifted toward more egalitarian structures, the word itself remains the primary legal identifier. It is important to note that for same-sex marriages (Ehe für alle), the term is used identically for a male spouse. The term encapsulates both the emotional bond and the civil contract recognized by the state.

Der Ehemann hat das Recht, Auskunft über die gemeinsamen Finanzen zu erhalten.

Legal Standing: Under the German Civil Code (BGB), the 'Ehemann' has specific rights and duties, including mutual support and maintenance (Unterhalt).

Culturally, the concept of the 'Ehemann' appears frequently in literature and film, often exploring themes of fidelity, responsibility, and domestic life. In the 19th century, the 'Ehemann' was legally the head of the household, but today, German law emphasizes 'partnerschaftliche Lebensführung,' meaning both spouses are equal. Despite these legal shifts, the linguistic core of 'Ehemann' remains a cornerstone of family-related vocabulary.

In seinem neuen Roman beschreibt der Autor die Sorgen eines jungen Ehemanns.

In summary, 'der Ehemann' is more than just 'a husband'; it is a title that carries historical, legal, and formal significance. Whether you are filling out a form at the 'Standesamt' (registry office) or describing a character in a story, this word provides the necessary precision to define a man's role within the institution of marriage.

Using der Ehemann correctly requires attention to German's four grammatical cases. As a masculine noun, it follows standard declension patterns. In the singular, it is 'der Ehemann' (nominative), 'des Ehemanns' or 'des Ehemannes' (genitive), 'dem Ehemann' (dative), and 'den Ehemann' (accusative). The plural is die Ehemänner, which is an important irregularity to memorize, as it involves an umlaut and an '-er' ending.

Nominative Case: Used when the husband is the subject of the sentence. Example: 'Der Ehemann kocht das Abendessen.' (The husband is cooking dinner.)
Accusative Case: Used when the husband is the direct object. Example: 'Sie liebt ihren Ehemann sehr.' (She loves her husband very much.) Note the ending on 'ihren'.

Das Geschenk ist für meinen Ehemann.

When discussing multiple husbands, perhaps in a sociological or historical context, the plural 'Ehemänner' is used. For example, 'Die Ehemänner der Soldatinnen warteten am Bahnhof.' (The husbands of the female soldiers waited at the station.) The genitive plural is 'der Ehemänner,' and the dative plural is 'den Ehemännern.' Pay close attention to that extra 'n' in the dative plural!

Ich habe dem Ehemann meiner Schwester zum Geburtstag gratuliert.

In subordinate clauses, the placement of 'Ehemann' follows standard word order rules. For instance, 'Sie weiß, dass ihr Ehemann später kommt.' (She knows that her husband is coming later.) Here, 'ihr Ehemann' is the subject of the secondary clause. It is also frequently found in prepositional phrases: 'mit meinem Ehemann' (with my husband - dative), 'ohne ihren Ehemann' (without her husband - accusative).

Seit zehn Jahren ist er ein vorbildlicher Ehemann.

Advanced learners should also look out for 'Ehemann' in compound nouns. For example, 'Ehemannspflichten' (husband's duties) or 'Ex-Ehemann' (ex-husband). While 'Ex-Mann' is more common in speech, 'Ex-Ehemann' is found in legal discussions regarding alimony or custody. Mastering the usage of 'Ehemann' allows for greater precision in describing family dynamics and legal relationships in German-speaking cultures.

In daily life in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, you will encounter der Ehemann in several specific environments. The most common place is within the bureaucratic machine. Germany loves its paperwork, and any form relating to family status (Familienstand) will use this term. Whether it's applying for a visa, registering a change of address at the 'Bürgeramt', or filing taxes ('Zusammenveranlagung von Eheleuten'), 'Ehemann' is the official designation.

News and Media: In news reports, journalists use 'Ehemann' to provide clear facts. 'Der Ehemann der Kanzlerin' (The Chancellor's husband) is a frequent phrase in political reporting when referring to the spouse of a high-ranking official.
Legal and Medical Settings: In a hospital, a doctor might ask, 'Ist Ihr Ehemann heute erreichbar?' (Is your husband reachable today?). In a courtroom, a witness might be asked about the 'Ehemann' of the defendant.

Das Standesamt erklärte ihn offiziell zum Ehemann.

You will also hear it in formal social gatherings. At a wedding reception, the 'Brautvater' (father of the bride) might give a speech addressing the 'frischgebackenen Ehemann' (the newly-minted husband). In church ceremonies, the priest or minister will use the word during the vows and the final pronouncement. It carries a sense of ceremony and solemnity that the word 'Partner' lacks.

Der Ehemann der Verstorbenen erbte das gesamte Anwesen.

Literature and classical music (Lieder) also utilize 'Ehemann' to define roles within the narrative or lyrics. In older texts, it might be used to emphasize the patriarchal structure of the time, whereas in modern literature, it might be used ironically or to highlight the contrast between a public 'Ehemann' persona and a private reality. Even in pop culture, gossip magazines ('Regenbogenpresse') obsess over the 'Ehemänner' of celebrities, analyzing their every move in public.

Sie stellte ihren Ehemann stolz ihren neuen Kollegen vor.

Finally, in the workplace, if there is an emergency or a need for 'Lohnsteuerbescheinigungen' (tax certificates), the HR department (Personalabteilung) will ask for the details of the 'Ehemann'. While friends might ask about your 'Mann', the system always wants to know about the 'Ehemann'. Understanding this distinction helps you navigate German society with the correct level of formality.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make when learning German is overusing Ehemann in casual conversation. In English, 'husband' is the standard word for almost all situations. In German, however, calling your spouse 'mein Ehemann' in a coffee shop with friends can sound overly stiff or even clinical. Most Germans will simply say 'mein Mann' (my man/my husband). The mistake is not grammatical, but rather a matter of 'Register' (level of formality).

Confusion with 'Mann': Learners often forget that 'Mann' without the 'Ehe-' prefix is perfectly acceptable to mean 'husband' when preceded by a possessive pronoun. Using 'der Ehemann' as a general term for 'the man' is a common A1/A2 error.
Pluralization Errors: Many learners try to pluralize it as 'Ehemanns' or 'Ehemännern' (in the nominative). The correct plural is 'Ehemänner'. The umlaut on the 'ä' is crucial for both spelling and pronunciation.

Falsch: Meine Ehemanns sind hier. Richtig: Meine Ehemänner (though unlikely in context!) or 'Die Ehemänner warten.'

Another tricky area is the genitive case. Because 'Ehemann' is a masculine noun ending in a consonant, it takes an '-s' or '-es' in the genitive singular. Learners often say 'das Auto von der Ehemann' (using 'von' + dative, which is common in speech) but fail to use the proper genitive 'das Auto des Ehemanns' in written German. While 'von' is okay in slang, 'des Ehemanns' is expected in formal writing.

Falsch: Er ist ein guter Ehefrau. Richtig: Er ist ein guter Ehemann.

Gender confusion is less common with this word since 'Mann' is so clearly masculine, but learners sometimes struggle with the possessive adjectives. For example, if a woman is talking about her husband, she must use 'mein' (my), but if someone else is talking about her husband, they must use 'ihr' (her). 'Sie liebt ihr Ehemann' is wrong; it must be 'Sie liebt ihren Ehemann' (accusative masculine).

Achtung: 'Ihr Ehemann' can mean 'Her husband' or 'Their husband' or 'Your (formal) husband' depending on context and capitalization.

Finally, avoid using 'Ehemann' for a man you are just living with. In Germany, the distinction between 'Lebensgefährte' (life partner) and 'Ehemann' is legally significant. Calling a boyfriend an 'Ehemann' before the wedding might lead to confusion regarding your legal status, especially in insurance or tax matters. Stick to 'Freund' or 'Partner' until the 'Ja-Wort' is spoken!

German offers a variety of words to describe a male partner, each with its own nuance and level of formality. Understanding these alternatives will help you sound more like a native speaker and choose the right word for the right occasion. The most common alternative, as previously mentioned, is Mann. In the context of 'mein Mann,' it is the direct equivalent of 'my husband' in 90% of daily interactions.

Gatte / Gemahl: These are very formal, almost old-fashioned terms. You might see 'Gatte' in a high-society magazine or a very formal invitation. 'Gemahl' is even more elevated, often used for royalty (e.g., 'Prinzgemahl' - Prince Consort).
Lebensgefährte: Literally 'life companion.' This is used for long-term partners who are not married. It sounds more serious and committed than 'Freund' (boyfriend).

Ihr Gatte begleitete sie zur Operngala.

Then there is Partner. This is very common in modern German and is gender-neutral (though the masculine form is 'der Partner'). It is often used in professional contexts or when the speaker doesn't want to specify the marital status. Another specific term is Angetrauter, which is a poetic or slightly archaic way of saying 'the one to whom I am wed.'

Mein Lebensgefährte und ich wohnen seit fünf Jahren zusammen.

In a legal sense, you might also hear Ehegatte. This is a gender-neutral legal term in German law that refers to either the husband or the wife. If you see a law that applies to 'Ehegatten,' it applies to both. Contrast this with 'Ehemann,' which is gender-specific. If a man is widowed, he becomes a Witwer, and if he is divorced, he is a Geschiedener or an Ex-Ehemann.

Das Gesetz schützt beide Ehegatten gleichermaßen.

Finally, in very informal slang, you might hear 'mein Alter' (my old man), though this can be perceived as disrespectful depending on the tone and relationship. 'Mein Göga' is a funny, modern acronym used in online forums (short for 'Göttergatte' - god-like husband), often used with a wink or a bit of sarcasm. Choosing the right word depends entirely on who you are talking to and what image of your relationship you want to project.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

In Old High German, 'ewa' could also mean 'eternity'. This reflects the historical view of marriage as a permanent, eternal bond before God.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ˈeːəman/

US /ˈeɪəmɑːn/

The primary stress is on the first syllable: 'EHE-mann'.

Rima com

Schneemann Nebenmann Hauptmann Seemann Fachmann Vordermann Hintermann Jedermann

Erros comuns

Pronouncing the 'h' (it should be silent).
Making the 'e' too short (it should be a long German 'e').
Pronouncing 'mann' like the English word 'man' (it should have a shorter, crisper 'a' sound).
Incorrectly stressing the second syllable.
Forgetting to umlaut the plural 'Ehemänner'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

Easy to recognize as it contains 'Mann'. The context usually makes it very clear.

Escrita 3/5

Requires correct pluralization (Ehemänner) and genitive endings.

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but requires a silent 'h'.

Audição 2/5

Clear phonetic structure, easily distinguishable from 'Ehefrau'.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

Mann Frau Ehe verheiratet mein

Aprenda a seguir

Ehefrau Ehepaar Schwiegermutter Schwiegervater Hochzeit

Avançado

Ehegatte Lebensgefährte Unterhalt Zugewinngemeinschaft Ehevertrag

Gramática essencial

Masculine Noun Declension

der Ehemann, des Ehemanns, dem Ehemann, den Ehemann

Plural formation with Umlaut + -er

Mann -> Männer, Ehemann -> Ehemänner

Possessive Adjective Agreement

mein Ehemann (nom), meinen Ehemann (acc)

Compound Noun Gender

The gender of 'Ehemann' is determined by the last part 'Mann' (masculine).

Genitive -s or -es

des Ehemanns or des Ehemannes (both are correct, -es is more formal).

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

Exemplos por nível

Das ist mein Ehemann.

That is my husband.

Nominative case, possessive pronoun 'mein'.

Mein Ehemann heißt Peter.

My husband is named Peter.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

Ist das dein Ehemann?

Is that your husband?

Question form with 'ist' and 'dein'.

Sein Ehemann arbeitet in Berlin.

His husband works in Berlin.

Possessive pronoun 'sein' referring to a male owner.

Ihr Ehemann ist sehr nett.

Her husband is very nice.

Possessive pronoun 'ihr' referring to a female owner.

Der Ehemann trinkt Kaffee.

The husband is drinking coffee.

Definite article 'der'.

Wo ist der Ehemann?

Where is the husband?

Interrogative 'Wo'.

Ein Ehemann und eine Ehefrau.

A husband and a wife.

Indefinite articles 'ein' (masculine) and 'eine' (feminine).

Ich suche ein Geschenk für meinen Ehemann.

I am looking for a gift for my husband.

Accusative case after the preposition 'für'.

Sie hilft ihrem Ehemann im Garten.

She helps her husband in the garden.

Dative case after the verb 'helfen'.

Wir besuchen heute meinen Ehemann im Krankenhaus.

We are visiting my husband in the hospital today.

Accusative object 'meinen Ehemann'.

Hat dein Ehemann ein Auto?

Does your husband have a car?

Subject in a question.

Die Ehemänner warten draußen.

The husbands are waiting outside.

Plural form 'die Ehemänner'.

Ich habe mit meinem Ehemann telefoniert.

I talked to my husband on the phone.

Dative case after the preposition 'mit'.

Ihr Ehemann kommt aus Spanien.

Her husband comes from Spain.

Preposition 'aus' + country.

Mein Ehemann kocht sehr gut.

My husband cooks very well.

Adverb 'gut' modifying the verb 'kocht'.

Das Auto meines Ehemanns ist neu.

My husband's car is new.

Genitive case showing possession.

Sie spricht oft über ihren Ehemann.

She often speaks about her husband.

Accusative case after 'über'.

Mein Ehemann hat mir bei der Arbeit geholfen.

My husband helped me with work.

Perfect tense 'hat geholfen'.

Ist Ihr Ehemann mit der Entscheidung einverstanden?

Is your husband in agreement with the decision?

Formal 'Ihr' and 'einverstanden'.

Die Rechte des Ehemanns sind im Gesetz festgelegt.

The rights of the husband are established in the law.

Genitive singular 'des Ehemanns'.

Ich möchte meinen Ehemann zu der Party mitbringen.

I would like to bring my husband to the party.

Modal verb 'möchte' and separable verb 'mitbringen'.

Ohne meinen Ehemann wäre ich nicht hier.

Without my husband, I wouldn't be here.

Konjunktiv II 'wäre' and preposition 'ohne'.

Mein Ehemann und ich teilen uns die Hausarbeit.

My husband and I share the housework.

Reflexive verb 'sich teilen'.

Der Ehemann hat Anspruch auf einen Teil der Rente.

The husband is entitled to a portion of the pension.

Noun-verb connection 'Anspruch haben auf'.

Trotz der Krise blieb er ein loyaler Ehemann.

Despite the crisis, he remained a loyal husband.

Preposition 'trotz' + genitive.

In diesem Roman wird der Ehemann als schwacher Charakter dargestellt.

In this novel, the husband is portrayed as a weak character.

Passive voice 'wird dargestellt'.

Sie stellte ihren Ehemann als den Hauptverantwortlichen vor.

She introduced her husband as the one primarily responsible.

Accusative object and 'als'.

Die Rolle des Ehemanns hat sich in den letzten Jahrzehnten stark gewandelt.

The role of the husband has changed significantly in recent decades.

Genitive case and present perfect.

Es ist wichtig, dass der Ehemann seine Partnerin unterstützt.

It is important that the husband supports his partner.

Subordinate clause with 'dass'.

Der Ehemann der Verstorbenen trat das Erbe an.

The husband of the deceased accepted the inheritance.

Genitive construction and 'antreten'.

Viele Ehemänner nehmen heutzutage Elternzeit.

Many husbands take parental leave nowadays.

Plural subject and modern vocabulary.

Die rechtliche Stellung des Ehemanns wurde durch die Reform gestärkt.

The legal position of the husband was strengthened by the reform.

Passive voice with 'wurde' and genitive case.

In der bürgerlichen Gesellschaft des 19. Jahrhunderts war der Ehemann das unangefochtene Oberhaupt.

In 19th-century bourgeois society, the husband was the undisputed head.

Historical context and complex adjectives.

Man darf den Ehemann nicht bloß auf seine Versorgerrolle reduzieren.

One must not reduce the husband merely to his role as a provider.

Modal verb and 'auf etwas reduzieren'.

Ihr Ehemann, ein renommierter Wissenschaftler, hielt die Eröffnungsrede.

Her husband, a renowned scientist, gave the opening speech.

Apposition (extra information between commas).

Die Treue des Ehemanns wurde in dem Prozess infrage gestellt.

The husband's fidelity was called into question during the trial.

Idiom 'infrage stellen'.

Trotz seiner Fehler war er ihr ein ergebener Ehemann.

Despite his flaws, he was a devoted husband to her.

Dative pronoun 'ihr' indicating 'to her'.

Das Verhältnis zwischen dem Ehemann und seinen Schwiegereltern war angespannt.

The relationship between the husband and his parents-in-law was tense.

Preposition 'zwischen' + dative.

Der Ehemann fungiert in diesem Fall als gesetzlicher Vertreter.

The husband acts as the legal representative in this case.

Verb 'fungieren' + 'als'.

Die ontologische Bedeutung der Bezeichnung 'Ehemann' wird in der modernen Philosophie debattiert.

The ontological significance of the term 'husband' is debated in modern philosophy.

Abstract academic language.

Inwieweit der Ehemann haftbar gemacht werden kann, hängt vom Ehevertrag ab.

To what extent the husband can be held liable depends on the marriage contract.

Indirect question and 'abhängen von'.

Die literarische Dekonstruktion des idealisierten Ehemanns ist ein zentrales Thema des Werks.

The literary deconstruction of the idealized husband is a central theme of the work.

Literary analysis terminology.

Obschon er als Ehemann versagte, blieb er ein brillanter Künstler.

Although he failed as a husband, he remained a brilliant artist.

Conjunction 'obschon' (formal/archaic).

Die steuerlichen Privilegien, die einem Ehemann zustehen, sind Gegenstand politischer Diskussionen.

The tax privileges entitled to a husband are the subject of political discussions.

Relative clause and dative 'einem Ehemann'.

Ein Ehemann schuldet seiner Frau nach dem BGB Beistand und Rücksicht.

According to the BGB, a husband owes his wife support and consideration.

Legal terminology 'schulden' and 'Beistand'.

Die Ambivalenz seiner Gefühle als Ehemann spiegelt sich in seinen Tagebüchern wider.

The ambivalence of his feelings as a husband is reflected in his diaries.

Separable verb 'widerspiegeln'.

Es bedarf einer differenzierten Betrachtung der Rolle des Ehemanns in verschiedenen Kulturen.

A differentiated consideration of the role of the husband in different cultures is required.

Formal construction 'Es bedarf' + genitive.

Colocações comuns

ein treuer Ehemann

der zukünftige Ehemann

ein fürsorglicher Ehemann

den Ehemann verlassen

zum Ehemann nehmen

der frischgebackene Ehemann

ein loyaler Ehemann

der verstorbene Ehemann

getrennt lebender Ehemann

ehemaliger Ehemann

Frases Comuns

Mein Ehemann und ich...

— A standard way to start a sentence about oneself and one's husband.

Mein Ehemann und ich wohnen in Hamburg.

Darf ich meinen Ehemann vorstellen?

— A formal way to introduce one's husband to others.

Herr Direktor, darf ich meinen Ehemann vorstellen?

Ehemann und Ehefrau

— The standard pairing for a married couple.

Sie wurden offiziell zu Ehemann und Ehefrau erklärt.

Ein guter Ehemann sein

— To fulfill the duties and expectations of a husband.

Er versucht immer, ein guter Ehemann zu sein.

Der Ehemann der Kanzlerin

— A phrase often used in media to refer to the spouse of a high official.

Der Ehemann der Kanzlerin ist Chemiker.

Geschenk für den Ehemann

— Commonly used in shopping contexts.

Ich suche ein passendes Geschenk für meinen Ehemann.

Die Pflichten eines Ehemanns

— Refers to the responsibilities of a husband.

Früher waren die Pflichten eines Ehemanns klar definiert.

Als Ehemann versagen

— To fail in one's role as a husband.

Er hatte das Gefühl, als Ehemann versagt zu haben.

Der ideale Ehemann

— A common trope in literature and media.

Gibt es den idealen Ehemann überhaupt?

Ehemann gesucht

— Common in personal ads or titles of romantic comedies.

Im neuen Film heißt es: 'Ehemann gesucht'.

Frequentemente confundido com

der Ehemann vs Mann

Generic for 'man'; used as 'husband' only with possessive pronouns.

der Ehemann vs Ehepaar

Refers to the couple, not the individual man.

der Ehemann vs Bräutigam

Refers to the man only on his wedding day (groom).

Expressões idiomáticas

"Pantoffelheld"

— A 'henpecked' husband; a husband who is under his wife's thumb.

Sein Freund nennt ihn einen Pantoffelhelden, weil er nie ohne Erlaubnis ausgeht.

Informal

"Unter dem Pantoffel stehen"

— To be henpecked or dominated by one's spouse.

Der Ehemann steht völlig unter dem Pantoffel seiner Frau.

Informal

"Göttergatte"

— A humorous, sometimes slightly ironic term for a 'perfect' husband.

Mein Göttergatte hat mal wieder die Wäsche vergessen.

Informal/Humorous

"Die Hosen anhaben"

— To be the one who makes the decisions in the marriage (usually said of the wife if the husband doesn't).

In dieser Ehe hat die Frau die Hosen an, nicht der Ehemann.

Informal

"In den Hafen der Ehe einlaufen"

— To get married (literally: to sail into the harbor of marriage).

Nach fünf Jahren Beziehung sind sie endlich in den Hafen der Ehe eingelaufen.

Literary

"Sich trauen lassen"

— To get married (referring to the ceremony).

Der Ehemann wollte sich unbedingt in einer kleinen Kapelle trauen lassen.

Neutral

"Bis dass der Tod euch scheidet"

— Until death do you part (the traditional wedding vow).

Sie versprachen sich Treue, bis dass der Tod sie scheidet.

Formal/Religious

"Den Bund fürs Leben schließen"

— To get married (literally: to close the bond for life).

Der Ehemann schloss mit ihr den Bund fürs Leben.

Formal

"Unter die Haube kommen"

— Usually said of women getting married, but implies the husband's role in 'taking' her.

Endlich ist sie unter die Haube gekommen und er ist nun ihr Ehemann.

Informal/Old-fashioned

"Haus, Auto, Ehemann"

— A cliché representing the standard middle-class dream.

Sie hat alles: Haus, Auto und einen tollen Ehemann.

Informal

Fácil de confundir

der Ehemann vs Mann

Both can mean husband.

'Ehemann' is formal and specific to marriage. 'Mann' is general.

Ein Mann (a man) vs. Mein Mann (my husband).

der Ehemann vs Gatte

Both mean husband.

'Gatte' is much more formal and used in high-society contexts.

Ihr Gatte ist ein Diplomat.

der Ehemann vs Partner

Both refer to a romantic companion.

'Partner' does not imply legal marriage, 'Ehemann' does.

Mein Partner lebt mit mir zusammen.

der Ehemann vs Ehefrau

Opposite gender but same context.

'Ehefrau' is the wife.

Sie ist seine Ehefrau.

der Ehemann vs Ehegatte

Very similar spelling.

'Ehegatte' is a gender-neutral legal term for a spouse.

Der Ehegatte ist unterhaltspflichtig.

Padrões de frases

Das ist mein [Noun].

Das ist mein Ehemann.

Ich habe einen [Noun].

Ich habe einen Ehemann.

Das ist das Auto meines [Noun]s.

Das ist das Auto meines Ehemanns.

Er ist ein [Adjective] [Noun].

Er ist ein loyaler Ehemann.

Trotz [Genitive], blieb er ein [Noun].

Trotz aller Probleme blieb er ein liebender Ehemann.

Die Rolle des [Noun]s wird [Verb].

Die Rolle des Ehemanns wird gesellschaftlich neu definiert.

Ich helfe meinem [Noun].

Ich helfe meinem Ehemann.

Ohne meinen [Noun]...

Ohne meinen Ehemann wäre ich einsam.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

die Ehe

die Ehefrau

das Ehepaar

die Eheleute

die Eheschließung

die Ehescheidung

das Ehebett

der Ehering

Verbos

ehelichen

verehelichen

Adjetivos

ehelich

außerehelich

nachehelich

vorehelich

Relacionado

die Heirat

heiraten

verheiratet

der Gatte

die Vermählung

Cadastre-se grátis para ver todos os exemplos

Como usar

frequency

High in formal/legal contexts, medium in social contexts.

Erros comuns

Using 'Ehemann' for a generic man. → Mann
A man on the street is 'ein Mann', not 'ein Ehemann' unless you know his marital status.
Pluralizing as 'Ehemanns'. → Ehemänner
German plural for 'Mann' is always 'Männer'.
Saying 'mein Ehemann' in a casual bar. → mein Mann
It sounds too stiff and formal for a casual setting.
Forgetting the dative 'n' in plural. → den Ehemännern
In dative plural, nouns get an extra 'n' if they don't already end in one.
Confusing 'ihr Ehemann' (her) with 'ihre Ehemann'. → ihr Ehemann
Ehemann is masculine, so the possessive 'ihr' does not get an 'e' in the nominative.

Dicas

Plural Mastery

Always remember the umlaut in 'Ehemänner'. Without it, the word is incorrect.

Register Awareness

Use 'Ehemann' on tax forms and 'Mann' when talking to your neighbors.

Related Terms

Learn 'Ehefrau' at the same time to complete the pair.

Official Use

In a German court, always refer to a husband as 'der Ehemann'.

Social Nuance

In some regions, 'Gatte' is used ironically among friends.

The Silent H

Don't breathe out on the 'h' in 'Ehe'. It's just a long 'E'.

Compound Words

German creates many compounds with 'Ehe-'. Look out for 'Ehering' and 'Ehepaar'.

Word Association

Link 'Ehe' with 'Eternal' to remember it means marriage.

Possessives

Remember that 'ihr Ehemann' can mean 'her husband' or 'their husband'.

Introductions

Using 'Ehemann' in an introduction shows high respect for the person.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of an 'E'xtra 'H'appy 'E'nergetic 'Mann' (Man) on his wedding day. E-H-E-Mann.

Associação visual

Imagine a man standing next to a large 'E' shaped wedding cake. The 'E' stands for 'Ehe'.

Word Web

Ehe Mann Frau Ring Hochzeit Liebe Gesetz Familie

Desafio

Try to use the word 'Ehemann' in three different cases (Nominative, Accusative, Dative) in one short paragraph about a fictional wedding.

Origem da palavra

The word is a compound of 'Ehe' and 'Mann'. 'Ehe' comes from the Old High German 'ewa', which meant 'law', 'custom', or 'eternity'. 'Mann' comes from the Proto-Germanic 'mann-', meaning 'human' or 'male'.

Significado original: The original meaning of 'Ehe' was related to divine law or a lasting legal state. Thus, an 'Ehemann' was a man bound by this law.

Germanic.

Contexto cultural

Be aware that 'Ehemann' is gender-specific. In the context of 'Ehe für alle' (marriage for all), use 'Ehemann' for any male spouse regardless of the gender of their partner.

English speakers should note that German has two words ('Mann' and 'Ehemann') where English usually just has 'husband'. Using 'Ehemann' in casual settings can sound like saying 'my male spouse' in English.

Der ideale Gatte (The Ideal Husband) by Oscar Wilde (German translation title) Die Ehemänner von Steptoe (German TV adaptation context) Loriot's sketches often satirize the German 'Ehemann'.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Tax/Legal Forms

Name des Ehemanns
Einkommen des Ehemanns
Unterschrift des Ehemanns
Wohnsitz des Ehemanns

Weddings

Hiermit erkläre ich Sie zu Ehemann und Ehefrau.
Der Ehemann darf die Braut nun küssen.
Rede des Ehemanns
Ring für den Ehemann

Social Introduction

Darf ich vorstellen? Das ist mein Ehemann.
Kennen Sie meinen Ehemann schon?
Mein Ehemann arbeitet bei...
Ich bin mit meinem Ehemann hier.

Medical/Emergency

Benachrichtigen Sie meinen Ehemann.
Ist Ihr Ehemann die Kontaktperson?
Mein Ehemann hat die Blutgruppe...
Wo ist mein Ehemann?

Literature/Storytelling

Es war einmal ein Ehemann...
Der treue Ehemann wartete.
Sie vermisste ihren Ehemann.
Der Ehemann kehrte zurück.

Iniciadores de conversa

"Was macht dein Ehemann beruflich?"

"Wie lange bist du schon mit deinem Ehemann verheiratet?"

"Hat dein Ehemann Geschwister?"

"Was ist das Lieblingsessen deines Ehemanns?"

"Wo hast du deinen Ehemann zum ersten Mal getroffen?"

Temas para diário

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der dein Ehemann (oder ein Ehemann, den du kennst) besonders hilfreich war.

Welche Eigenschaften machen deiner Meinung nach einen guten Ehemann aus?

Wie hat sich die Rolle des Ehemanns in deiner Kultur über die Jahre verändert?

Schreibe einen Brief an einen zukünftigen Ehemann über deine Erwartungen an eine Ehe.

Diskutiere die Vor- und Nachteile der Bezeichnung 'Ehemann' im Vergleich zu 'Partner'.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, 'Ehemann' strictly refers to a legally married man. For a boyfriend, use 'Freund' or 'fester Freund'.

'Mein Mann' is what most Germans say in daily life. 'Mein Ehemann' is more formal and used in legal or official situations.

Yes, a man married to another man is also referred to as an 'Ehemann'.

The 'ä' sounds like the 'e' in 'bed'. It is [ˈeːəˌmɛnɐ].

Yes, but mostly in very formal writing or among the upper class. It sounds a bit old-fashioned to younger people.

It refers to a man who was previously your husband but is now divorced from you.

In German, an 'h' after a vowel often serves to lengthen the vowel rather than being pronounced as a consonant.

Not usually, but 'Pantoffelheld' is a specific insulting term for a certain type of husband.

It is 'des Ehemanns' or 'des Ehemannes'. Both are correct.

No, the only shorter way to say it is just 'Mann'.

Cadastre-se grátis para ver dicas e notas