At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'Atemnot' frequently, but it is very important to understand it for your safety. Think of it as 'Atem' (breath) + 'Not' (emergency). If you see this word on a sign or a medicine bottle, it means 'difficulty breathing'. At this level, you might simply say 'Ich kann nicht gut atmen' (I cannot breathe well). However, learning 'Atemnot' helps you understand when a situation is serious. Imagine you are at a pharmacy; the pharmacist might ask if you have 'Atemnot'. If you know this word, you can answer 'Ja' or 'Nein' correctly. It is a feminine noun, so we say 'die Atemnot'. In very simple terms, it is the feeling when you need more air but cannot get it. You might feel this if you run very fast or if you have a bad cold. Just remember: Atem + Not = Breathing Emergency. This simple formula will help you remember the meaning even if you don't use the word in your own daily sentences yet. It is one of those 'passive' vocabulary words that are vital for survival in a German-speaking environment.
At the A2 level, you are starting to describe your health and physical feelings more specifically. 'Die Atemnot' is a useful word when you visit a doctor or talk about physical exercise. You should know that it is a noun and is usually used with the verb 'haben' (to have). For example, 'Ich habe Atemnot beim Sport' (I have shortness of breath during sports). You can also use it to describe other people: 'Mein Großvater hat oft Atemnot.' At this level, you should also recognize the difference between 'Atemnot' and just being tired. 'Atemnot' is more serious. You might hear it in news reports about the weather or air quality. It is also common to see it in the 'Nebenwirkungen' (side effects) section of medicine leaflets. If a medicine causes 'Atemnot', you should stop taking it and call a doctor. Learning this word now prepares you for more complex medical conversations later. Remember the gender: 'die'. You can say 'eine starke Atemnot' (a strong shortness of breath) if the feeling is very bad. It's a compound word, which is very typical for German, so practicing 'Atemnot' also helps you get used to how German builds large words from smaller pieces.
At the B1 level, you are expected to handle most situations encountered while traveling or living in a German-speaking area, including health issues. 'Die Atemnot' is a key term for this level. You should be able to use it in a variety of sentences. For instance, you can use the verb 'leiden an' (to suffer from) to describe a chronic condition: 'Er leidet an chronischer Atemnot.' You should also understand the nuance that 'Atemnot' implies a sense of distress or urgency. It's not just 'being winded' (außer Puste sein), but a clinical symptom. You might encounter this word in a listening exercise about environmental protection or health. For example, a speaker might discuss how 'Feinstaub' (fine dust) leads to 'Atemnot' in children. You should also be familiar with common adjectives used with it, such as 'plötzlich' (sudden), 'leicht' (mild), or 'akut' (acute). In your writing, you can use 'Atemnot' to describe a stressful situation in a story, perhaps metaphorically. At B1, you are building the bridge between basic communication and more professional or technical language, and 'Atemnot' is a perfect example of a word that sits right on that line. It is formal enough for a doctor's office but common enough for a daily conversation about health.
At the B2 level, your understanding of 'die Atemnot' should be quite sophisticated. You should be able to distinguish it from synonyms like 'Kurzatmigkeit' or 'Luftnot'. While 'Kurzatmigkeit' refers to the objective state of breathing rapidly or shallowly, 'Atemnot' encompasses the subjective experience of distress. You should also be comfortable using the word in professional contexts, such as in a workplace safety meeting or a discussion about public health policy. For example: 'Die Belastung durch Abgase führt bei vielen Anwohnern zu Atemnot.' You should also be aware of the word's role in compound adjectives or related terms, like 'atemnotauslösend' (triggering shortness of breath). At this level, you can also use 'Atemnot' metaphorically in more complex ways, such as describing a claustrophobic social or political environment. Your grammar should be precise: 'Aufgrund der hohen Luftfeuchtigkeit klagten viele über Atemnot.' Here, you use the genitive case with 'aufgrund' and the verb 'klagen über' (to complain about), which is a typical B2-level construction. You should also be able to understand medical brochures that explain the 'Ursachen' (causes) and 'Behandlung' (treatment) of 'Atemnot'. This word becomes a tool for precise expression in both personal and professional spheres.
At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced command of 'die Atemnot' and its place within the broader German vocabulary of health and emotion. You should recognize it as the standard term for dyspnea and be able to use it in formal reports, academic discussions, or high-level literature. You might explore the etymological roots of 'Not' and how it colors the word with a sense of existential threat, distinguishing it from the more neutral 'Atembeschwerden'. In a C1 context, you might discuss the psychological aspects of 'Atemnot', such as its link to 'Panikstörungen' (panic disorders) or 'Angstzuständen' (anxiety states). You should be able to follow a complex medical lecture or a detailed podcast about respiratory health where 'Atemnot' is discussed alongside terms like 'Sauerstoffsättigung' (oxygen saturation) or 'Lungenfunktion' (lung function). Metaphorically, you can use the word to describe the 'stifling' nature of bureaucracy or a lack of creative freedom with great precision: 'Die starren Strukturen des Unternehmens verursachten bei den kreativen Köpfen eine geistige Atemnot.' Your use of the word should reflect an understanding of register—knowing when to use the clinical 'Atemnot' versus the more colloquial 'Luftnot' or the highly technical 'Dyspnoe'. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a building block for complex, nuanced argumentation.
At the C2 level, your mastery of 'die Atemnot' is near-native. You understand the full spectrum of its use, from the most technical medical journals to the most evocative poetry. You can analyze how the word is used in different historical periods or literary movements to represent physical or spiritual suffering. For instance, in the works of Thomas Mann or other authors who focused on illness, 'Atemnot' might be used to symbolize the fragility of life or the breakdown of the bourgeois order. You are aware of the subtle differences in connotation between 'Atemnot' and its synonyms in various German dialects or regional variations. You can participate in high-level debates about health policy, environmental regulations, or medical ethics where 'Atemnot' is a central symptom being discussed. Your ability to use the word metaphorically is limited only by your imagination; you might use it to describe the 'breathless' pace of modern life or the 'suffocating' weight of history. You also understand the rare plural 'Atemnöte' and the specific, often archaic or highly stylized contexts in which it might appear. At this level, 'die Atemnot' is a word you don't just know; you feel its weight, its urgency, and its precision in every context you encounter it.

die Atemnot em 30 segundos

  • Atemnot means shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
  • It is a feminine noun (die Atemnot) and a compound of Atem + Not.
  • Commonly used in medical contexts to describe a serious symptom.
  • Should not be confused with positive breathlessness (atemlos).
The German noun die Atemnot is a compound word formed from 'der Atem' (breath) and 'die Not' (distress, emergency, or need). In its most literal sense, it describes a physiological state where an individual experiences significant difficulty in breathing or a distressing sensation of being unable to get enough air. This is not merely the feeling of being slightly out of breath after a quick run, which Germans might call 'Außerpustesein', but rather a more serious, often clinical condition known in English as shortness of breath or dyspnea.
Medical Context
In a medical setting, 'Atemnot' is a symptom rather than a disease itself. It is used to describe the subjective experience of breathing discomfort. Doctors will often ask, 'Leiden Sie unter Atemnot?' (Do you suffer from shortness of breath?) to gauge the severity of conditions like asthma, COPD, or heart failure.

Der Patient klagte über plötzliche Atemnot und Schmerzen in der Brust.

Beyond the clinical, the word carries a heavy emotional and situational weight. The component 'Not' implies a crisis. When someone says they have 'Atemnot', they are communicating a level of urgency. It is frequently used in emergency calls (Notruf) to describe a life-threatening situation. However, it can also be used metaphorically in literature or high-level journalism to describe a stifling environment, such as a political climate where one feels they cannot 'breathe' or express themselves freely. In everyday conversation, you might hear it when someone describes a panic attack. The sensation of the throat closing up or the chest tightening is perfectly encapsulated by this word. It is a 'Not' (emergency) of the 'Atem' (breath). While 'Kurzatmigkeit' is often the result of physical exertion, 'Atemnot' is the symptom that sends you to the hospital. Understanding this distinction is key for B1 learners moving into more nuanced German.
Situational Usage
You will find this word in safety instructions, medical brochures, and news reports regarding air pollution or respiratory viruses. It is a serious word that demands attention.

Bei starker Atemnot rufen Sie bitte sofort den Notarzt.

In summary, 'die Atemnot' is the bridge between the physical act of breathing and the emotional state of distress. It is essential for describing health issues and high-stress situations. Whether you are at the doctor, reading a thriller, or discussing environmental issues, this word provides the necessary gravity to the topic of respiration.
Using die Atemnot correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a feminine noun and the specific verbs it typically pairs with. Because it describes a state of being or a symptom, it often appears as the object of verbs like 'haben' (to have), 'bekommen' (to get/develop), or 'leiden an' (to suffer from).
Verbal Collocations
The most common construction is 'Atemnot haben'. For example: 'Ich habe Atemnot.' However, to sound more professional or precise, use 'unter Atemnot leiden' (to suffer from shortness of breath). If the condition starts suddenly, 'Atemnot bekommen' is the standard choice.

Wenn ich schnell renne, bekomme ich oft Atemnot.

When describing the cause of the breathing difficulty, the preposition 'bei' (during/at) or 'wegen' (because of) is frequently used. For instance, 'Atemnot bei Belastung' (shortness of breath during exertion) is a common medical phrase used to describe symptoms that appear only when the body is working hard. Conversely, 'Atemnot im Ruhezustand' (shortness of breath at rest) indicates a much more severe medical condition. Adjectives are often used to qualify the severity of the condition. Words like 'akut' (acute), 'chronisch' (chronic), 'leicht' (mild), or 'schwer' (severe) are standard. 'Plötzliche Atemnot' (sudden shortness of breath) is a phrase you would use to describe an emergency.
Metaphorical Use
In a non-medical sense, you might see it used to describe a feeling of being overwhelmed. 'Die bürokratischen Hürden verursachten bei den Gründern regelrechte Atemnot.' (The bureaucratic hurdles caused the founders literal shortness of breath - meaning they felt suffocated by the rules).

Die Enge des Raumes löste bei ihr eine panische Atemnot aus.

Finally, pay attention to the plural. While 'Atemnöte' exists, it is extremely rare and usually only found in poetic or very formal contexts. In 99% of cases, you will use the singular 'die Atemnot'. When constructing sentences, remember that it is an abstract noun, so it doesn't always need an indefinite article (a/an). You don't say 'eine Atemnot' as often as you just say 'Atemnot'.
In the German-speaking world, die Atemnot is a word that spans several domains, from the sterile environment of a hospital to the dramatic heights of a mountain climb.
At the Doctor (Beim Arzt)
This is the primary place you will encounter the word. A doctor might ask: 'Haben Sie nachts Atemnot?' (Do you have shortness of breath at night?). It is a standard part of a medical anamnesis (medical history). Patients use it to describe their symptoms clearly and concisely.

Der Notarzt fragte: 'Seit wann besteht die Atemnot?'

In the news, specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic, 'Atemnot' was one of the most frequently used terms. News anchors and health experts used it to describe the severe symptoms of the virus. Similarly, in reports about environmental issues like 'Feinstaubbelastung' (fine dust pollution) or 'Smog' in large cities like Berlin or Stuttgart, 'Atemnot' is cited as a potential health risk for vulnerable populations. Sports and outdoor activities also provide a stage for this word. In the Alps, hikers and mountaineers talk about 'Atemnot' in relation to 'Höhenkrankheit' (altitude sickness). When the air gets thin at 3,000 meters, even fit individuals might experience 'leichte Atemnot'. It is a common topic in alpine safety briefings.
In Literature and Media
Crime novels (Krimis) and medical dramas (Arztserien) like 'In aller Freundschaft' or 'Der Bergdoktor' use 'Atemnot' to build tension. It signifies a moment of crisis where a character is in immediate physical danger. It’s a word that evokes an instinctive reaction of empathy and fear in the listener.

In dem spannenden Roman beschrieb der Autor die Atemnot des Protagonisten in der engen Höhle.

Finally, you might hear it in pharmacy settings. When buying allergy medication, the pharmacist might ask if the hay fever leads to 'Atemnot', which would indicate a more serious allergic reaction like asthma. In all these contexts, the word serves as a precise indicator of respiratory distress, moving beyond simple tiredness or exertion.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing Atemnot with being simply 'breathless' after exercise. In English, we often say 'I'm breathless' or 'I'm out of breath' in a neutral or even positive way (e.g., after a good run or seeing something beautiful). In German, 'Atemnot' is almost always negative and clinical.
Mistake: Confusing with 'Atemlos'
The famous song 'Atemlos durch die Nacht' by Helene Fischer uses 'atemlos' (breathless) to mean 'excited' or 'living life to the fullest'. If you said 'Ich habe Atemnot durch die Nacht', it would mean you spent the night having a medical emergency. Do not use 'Atemnot' for positive excitement.

Falsch: Nach dem Kuss hatte ich Atemnot. (Unless the kiss actually caused an allergic reaction!)

Another common error involves the preposition. Many learners try to translate 'shortness of breath' literally or use 'mit' (with). While you can say 'Patienten mit Atemnot', the more natural way to describe suffering from it is 'leiden an' (to suffer from) or 'haben'. Gender confusion is also common. Because 'Atem' is masculine (der Atem), beginners often assume 'Atemnot' is masculine. However, in German compound nouns, the gender is always determined by the last element. 'Die Not' is feminine, therefore 'die Atemnot' is feminine. Using 'der Atemnot' is a clear marker of a non-native speaker.
Confusion with 'Kurzatmigkeit'
While often used as synonyms, 'Kurzatmigkeit' is more about the rhythm of breathing (short, shallow breaths), whereas 'Atemnot' is the subjective feeling of distress. If you are just a bit tired after stairs, 'kurzatmig' is better. If you feel like you can't get air, use 'Atemnot'.

Richtig: Er leidet an chronischer Atemnot aufgrund seines Asthmas.

Lastly, avoid overusing it in casual settings. If you are just slightly winded, say 'Ich bin ein bisschen außer Puste'. Using 'Atemnot' makes people think they need to call an ambulance. It is a high-stakes word that should be reserved for medical contexts, severe physical distress, or very specific metaphorical descriptions of oppression.
To truly master German, you need to know which tool to pull from your linguistic toolbox. Atemnot has several siblings that vary in intensity and register.
Kurzatmigkeit vs. Atemnot
'Kurzatmigkeit' is the literal translation of 'short-windedness'. It describes the physical state of taking short breaths. 'Atemnot' is broader and includes the feeling of distress. You might be 'kurzatmig' after a sprint, but you have 'Atemnot' during an asthma attack.
Luftnot
This is a very common synonym, often used interchangeably with 'Atemnot'. 'Luftnot' (literally: air distress) is slightly more colloquial but still perfectly acceptable in medical contexts. Some people find it more descriptive of the feeling of 'lacking air'.

Anstatt 'Atemnot' kann man auch Luftnot sagen, wenn man keine Luft bekommt.

In highly technical medical environments, doctors might use the Latin-derived term 'Dyspnoe'. You will see this on medical reports or in textbooks. As a learner, you don't need to say it, but you should recognize it as the professional equivalent of 'Atemnot'. For the feeling of being smothered or oppressed, 'Beklemmung' is a great alternative. While 'Atemnot' focuses on the lungs and the act of breathing, 'Beklemmung' focuses on the feeling of tightness in the chest, often due to anxiety.
Comparison Table
- **Atemnot**: Serious, clinical, distressful. - **Kurzatmigkeit**: Physical description, less urgent. - **Luftnot**: Common synonym, slightly more direct. - **Atembeschwerden**: General term for any breathing issue. - **Dyspnoe**: Academic/Medical term.

Die Atembeschwerden besserten sich nach der Einnahme des Sprays.

By choosing the right word, you convey not just the fact of breathing trouble, but also its cause, severity, and context. 'Atemnot' remains the most versatile 'serious' word for this condition.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The root of 'Atem' is the same as the Hindu concept of 'Atman' (the soul). In many ancient cultures, breathing and the soul were considered the same thing. Thus, 'Atemnot' is literally a 'distress of the soul' in a historical linguistic sense.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ˈaːtəmˌnoːt/
US /ˈɑtəmˌnoʊt/
Primary stress is on the first syllable 'A-', secondary stress on 'not'.
Rima com
Abendrot Brot Tot Not Boot Gebot Verbot Angebot
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing 'Not' like the English word 'not' (it should sound more like 'note').
  • Shortening the first 'A' (it must be long).
  • Mixing up the 'e' in 'Atem' (it is a schwa sound, very short).
  • Putting the stress on the second syllable.
  • Failing to pronounce the 't' at the end clearly.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

Easy to recognize as a compound word.

Escrita 4/5

Requires correct gender and spelling of 'Atem'.

Expressão oral 4/5

Pronunciation of 'Not' (long o) can be tricky for English speakers.

Audição 3/5

Clearly articulated in medical and news contexts.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

der Atem die Not atmen krank die Hilfe

Aprenda a seguir

die Lungenentzündung der Herzinfarkt die Erste Hilfe das Symptom die Diagnose

Avançado

die Dyspnoe die Ventilation die Obstruktion die Insuffizienz respiratorisch

Gramática essencial

Compound Nouns Gender

Die Not (fem) + Der Atem (masc) = Die Atemnot (fem).

Preposition 'an' with 'leiden'

Er leidet an Atemnot. (Dative case)

Preposition 'über' with 'klagen'

Sie klagt über Atemnot. (Accusative case)

Genitive with 'wegen'

Wegen der Atemnot konnte er nicht kommen.

Adjective Endings with Feminine Nouns

Eine starke Atemnot; die akute Atemnot.

Exemplos por nível

1

Ich habe Atemnot.

I have shortness of breath.

Subject + Verb + Noun. Simple structure.

2

Haben Sie Atemnot?

Do you have difficulty breathing?

Question form: Verb + Subject + Noun.

3

Die Atemnot ist schlecht.

The shortness of breath is bad.

Using the definite article 'die'.

4

Keine Atemnot heute.

No shortness of breath today.

Negation with 'keine' because the noun is feminine.

5

Atemnot beim Laufen.

Shortness of breath while running.

'Beim' is a contraction of 'bei dem' (during the).

6

Hilfe, ich habe Atemnot!

Help, I have shortness of breath!

Exclamatory sentence.

7

Das ist Atemnot.

That is shortness of breath.

Demonstrative 'das ist'.

8

Atemnot ist ein Problem.

Shortness of breath is a problem.

Generic statement.

1

Er bekommt oft Atemnot bei Kälte.

He often gets shortness of breath in the cold.

Verb 'bekommen' indicates the onset of the symptom.

2

Hatten Sie gestern auch Atemnot?

Did you have shortness of breath yesterday too?

Präteritum (past tense) of 'haben'.

3

Meine Oma leidet an Atemnot.

My grandma suffers from shortness of breath.

Prepositional verb 'leiden an' + dative.

4

Das Medikament hilft gegen Atemnot.

The medicine helps against shortness of breath.

Preposition 'gegen' + accusative.

5

Rufen Sie bei Atemnot den Arzt.

Call the doctor in case of shortness of breath.

Imperative form.

6

Ich fühle eine leichte Atemnot.

I feel a slight shortness of breath.

Adjective 'leichte' matches feminine 'Atemnot'.

7

Die Atemnot wurde im Krankenhaus besser.

The shortness of breath got better in the hospital.

Passive-like state change with 'wurde'.

8

Warum haben Sie Atemnot?

Why do you have shortness of breath?

Interrogative 'warum'.

1

Plötzliche Atemnot kann ein Zeichen für Asthma sein.

Sudden shortness of breath can be a sign of asthma.

Modal verb 'kann' + infinitive 'sein'.

2

Trotz der Atemnot ging er weiter spazieren.

Despite the shortness of breath, he continued walking.

Preposition 'trotz' + genitive.

3

Die Patientin klagt über zunehmende Atemnot.

The patient complains about increasing shortness of breath.

Verb 'klagen über' + accusative.

4

Wenn die Atemnot schlimmer wird, müssen wir handeln.

If the shortness of breath gets worse, we must act.

Conditional 'wenn' clause.

5

Rauchen führt oft zu chronischer Atemnot.

Smoking often leads to chronic shortness of breath.

Verb 'führen zu' + dative.

6

Sie hatte solche Atemnot, dass sie nicht sprechen konnte.

She had such shortness of breath that she couldn't speak.

Consecutive 'dass' clause.

7

Die Atemnot trat mitten in der Nacht auf.

The shortness of breath occurred in the middle of the night.

Separable verb 'auftreten'.

8

Man sollte Atemnot niemals ignorieren.

One should never ignore shortness of breath.

Indefinite pronoun 'man' + modal 'sollte'.

1

Die akute Atemnot erforderte eine sofortige Intubation.

The acute shortness of breath required immediate intubation.

Formal verb 'erfordern'.

2

Viele Bergsteiger unterschätzen die Atemnot in großen Höhen.

Many climbers underestimate the shortness of breath at high altitudes.

Transitive verb 'unterschätzen'.

3

Durch die Verschmutzung leiden Kinder häufiger unter Atemnot.

Due to pollution, children suffer more frequently from shortness of breath.

Preposition 'durch' + accusative.

4

Die Atemnot ist ein typisches Symptom für Herzinsuffizienz.

Shortness of breath is a typical symptom of heart failure.

Genitive used for 'of heart failure'.

5

Er beschrieb seine Atemnot als ein Gefühl der Enge.

He described his shortness of breath as a feeling of tightness.

Verb 'beschreiben als'.

6

Ohne das Spray wäre die Atemnot lebensgefährlich gewesen.

Without the spray, the shortness of breath would have been life-threatening.

Konjunktiv II (conditional) past.

7

Die Atemnot verschwand so schnell, wie sie gekommen war.

The shortness of breath disappeared as quickly as it had come.

Comparison with 'so... wie'.

8

Es gibt verschiedene Ursachen für nächtliche Atemnot.

There are various causes for nocturnal shortness of breath.

Adjective 'nächtliche' (nocturnal).

1

Die subjektiv empfundene Atemnot korreliert nicht immer mit den Messwerten.

The subjectively perceived shortness of breath does not always correlate with the measured values.

Participle 'empfundene' used as an adjective.

2

In seinem Essay thematisiert er die existenzielle Atemnot des modernen Menschen.

In his essay, he addresses the existential shortness of breath of modern man.

Metaphorical use of the term.

3

Die psychogene Atemnot ist oft schwer von organischen Ursachen abzugrenzen.

Psychogenic shortness of breath is often difficult to distinguish from organic causes.

Infinitive with 'zu' (abzugrenzen).

4

Trotz intensiver Therapie persistierte die Atemnot bei dem Patienten.

Despite intensive therapy, the shortness of breath persisted in the patient.

Formal verb 'persistieren'.

5

Die Atemnot wurde durch die allergische Reaktion massiv verstärkt.

The shortness of breath was massively intensified by the allergic reaction.

Passive voice 'wurde... verstärkt'.

6

Eine rechtzeitige Diagnose kann die Atemnot lindern und die Lebensqualität steigern.

A timely diagnosis can alleviate shortness of breath and increase quality of life.

Coordinated main clauses.

7

Das Gefühl der Atemnot löste bei ihm eine regelrechte Panikattacke aus.

The feeling of shortness of breath triggered a veritable panic attack in him.

Separable verb 'auslösen'.

8

Die klinische Relevanz der Atemnot wird in dieser Studie ausführlich erörtert.

The clinical relevance of shortness of breath is discussed in detail in this study.

Formal passive voice.

1

Die Atemnot fungiert hier als Metapher für die politische Unterdrückung im Land.

Shortness of breath functions here as a metaphor for political oppression in the country.

High-level literary analysis.

2

In der Palliativmedizin ist die Linderung von Atemnot eine der vordringlichsten Aufgaben.

In palliative medicine, the alleviation of shortness of breath is one of the most urgent tasks.

Complex noun phrase with genitive.

3

Die Komplexität der Atemnot entzieht sich oft einer rein somatischen Erklärung.

The complexity of shortness of breath often eludes a purely somatic explanation.

Reflexive verb 'sich entziehen'.

4

Manche Patienten beschreiben ihre Atemnot als ein Gefühl des drohenden Erstickens.

Some patients describe their shortness of breath as a feeling of impending suffocation.

Present participle 'drohenden' as adjective.

5

Die Atemnot kann als Leitsymptom für eine Vielzahl kardiovaskulärer Erkrankungen dienen.

Shortness of breath can serve as a cardinal symptom for a variety of cardiovascular diseases.

Technical term 'Leitsymptom'.

6

Phänomenologisch betrachtet ist Atemnot eine tiefgreifende Störung des Leibempfindens.

Phenomenologically speaking, shortness of breath is a profound disturbance of bodily perception.

Adverbial phrase 'Phänomenologisch betrachtet'.

7

Die Atemnot evoziert beim Leser eine unmittelbare körperliche Mitempfindung.

The shortness of breath evokes an immediate physical empathy in the reader.

Formal verb 'evozieren'.

8

Die Nuancen zwischen Atemnot und bloßer Erschöpfung sind in der Literatur fein herausgearbeitet.

The nuances between shortness of breath and mere exhaustion are finely elaborated in literature.

Passive perfect with 'herausgearbeitet'.

Colocações comuns

akute Atemnot
chronische Atemnot
plötzliche Atemnot
Atemnot bekommen
unter Atemnot leiden
leichte Atemnot
Atemnot bei Belastung
nächtliche Atemnot
Atemnot auslösen
Linderung der Atemnot

Frases Comuns

In Atemnot geraten

— To find oneself suddenly struggling to breathe.

Er geriet beim Schwimmen in Atemnot.

Atemnot verspüren

— To feel or sense shortness of breath.

Sobald er die Maske aufsetzte, verspürte er Atemnot.

Gefühl der Atemnot

— The sensation of having difficulty breathing.

Das Gefühl der Atemnot ist sehr beängstigend.

Anzeichen von Atemnot

— Signs or symptoms of breathing difficulty.

Achten Sie auf erste Anzeichen von Atemnot.

Wegen Atemnot behandelt werden

— To be treated for shortness of breath.

Er wird im Krankenhaus wegen Atemnot behandelt.

Atemnot vorbeugen

— To prevent shortness of breath.

Regelmäßiges Training kann Atemnot vorbeugen.

Schwere Atemnot

— Severe respiratory distress.

Bei schwerer Atemnot zählt jede Sekunde.

Atemnot im Schlaf

— Difficulty breathing while sleeping.

Schnarchen führt manchmal zu Atemnot im Schlaf.

Atemnot durch Allergie

— Shortness of breath caused by an allergy.

Atemnot durch Allergie ist im Frühling häufig.

Atemnot bekämpfen

— To fight or treat breathing difficulties.

Ärzte nutzen Sauerstoff, um die Atemnot zu bekämpfen.

Frequentemente confundido com

die Atemnot vs atemlos

Atemlos is an adjective often meaning 'excited' or 'breathless' in a good way. Atemnot is a medical noun.

die Atemnot vs Kurzatmigkeit

Kurzatmigkeit is a more technical description of breathing fast; Atemnot is the distress felt.

die Atemnot vs Atemzug

Atemzug means 'a single breath'. Atemnot means 'difficulty breathing'.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Jemandem den Atem rauben"

— To take someone's breath away (metaphorical/positive or physical).

Ihre Schönheit raubte ihm den Atem.

informal
"Außer Atem sein"

— To be out of breath (usually after exercise).

Ich bin völlig außer Atem nach dem Sprint.

neutral
"Einen langen Atem haben"

— To have stamina or patience (metaphorical).

Für dieses Projekt braucht man einen langen Atem.

neutral
"Den Atem anhalten"

— To hold one's breath (physically or in suspense).

Alle hielten den Atem an, als der Artist sprang.

neutral
"Wieder zu Atem kommen"

— To catch one's breath.

Lass mich erst mal wieder zu Atem kommen.

neutral
"Bis zum letzten Atemzug"

— Until the very last breath (until death).

Er kämpfte bis zum letzten Atemzug.

formal
"Atem holen"

— To take a breath (physically or a pause).

Wir müssen kurz Atem holen, bevor wir weitermachen.

neutral
"In einem Atemzug nennen"

— To mention in the same breath (as equals).

Man kann diese beiden Künstler nicht in einem Atemzug nennen.

neutral
"Atemlos sein"

— To be breathless (often from excitement).

Sie war atemlos vor Freude.

neutral
"Die Luft wird dünn"

— Things are getting difficult/critical (metaphorical).

Für den Minister wird die Luft jetzt dünn.

informal

Fácil de confundir

die Atemnot vs die Not

Learners might think it just means 'not' in English.

In German, 'Not' means distress, emergency, or need. It has nothing to do with negation.

In der Not erkennt man seine Freunde.

die Atemnot vs der Atem

Often confused with 'die Atmung'.

Atem is the air you breathe; Atmung is the biological process of breathing.

Sein Atem war kalt.

die Atemnot vs außer Puste

Both describe being short of breath.

Außer Puste is colloquial and usually harmless (after running). Atemnot is serious.

Nach dem Treppensteigen bin ich außer Puste.

die Atemnot vs ersticken

Related to breathing problems.

Ersticken means to suffocate/choke (the action/result). Atemnot is the symptom.

Er drohte zu ersticken.

die Atemnot vs beklemmend

Describes the feeling in the chest.

Beklemmend is an adjective for 'oppressive' or 'claustrophobic'. Atemnot is the noun for the physical symptom.

Die Atmosphäre im Raum war beklemmend.

Padrões de frases

A2

Ich habe [Adjektiv] Atemnot.

Ich habe leichte Atemnot.

B1

Er bekommt Atemnot, wenn [Nebensatz].

Er bekommt Atemnot, wenn er Sport treibt.

B1

Wegen der Atemnot muss ich [Verb].

Wegen der Atemnot muss ich zum Arzt.

B2

Die Atemnot wird durch [Akkusativ] ausgelöst.

Die Atemnot wird durch Pollen ausgelöst.

B2

Patienten, die unter Atemnot leiden, sollten [Verb].

Patienten, die unter Atemnot leiden, sollten nicht rauchen.

C1

Es gilt, die Ursachen der Atemnot [zu-Infinitiv].

Es gilt, die Ursachen der Atemnot genau zu untersuchen.

C1

Die Atemnot ist auf [Akkusativ] zurückzuführen.

Die Atemnot ist auf eine Herzschwäche zurückzuführen.

C2

Ungeachtet der Atemnot [Verb] [Subjekt]...

Ungeachtet der Atemnot setzte der Bergsteiger seinen Aufstieg fort.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

der Atem
der Atemzug
die Atmung
die Atempause
das Atemgerät

Verbos

atmen
einatmen
ausatmen
durchatmen
aufatmen

Adjetivos

atemlos
atmungsaktiv
atemberaubend
kurzatmig

Relacionado

die Lunge
die Luftröhre
der Sauerstoff
die Erstickung
die Kurzatmigkeit

Como usar

frequency

Common in health, news, and emergency contexts.

Erros comuns
  • Ich bin Atemnot. Ich habe Atemnot.

    You cannot 'be' the noun; you 'have' it.

  • Der Atemnot ist stark. Die Atemnot ist stark.

    'Not' is feminine, so the compound noun is feminine.

  • Ich habe Atemnot nach dem Kuss. Ich war atemlos nach dem Kuss.

    'Atemnot' is a medical emergency; 'atemlos' is being breathless from excitement.

  • Er leidet von Atemnot. Er leidet an Atemnot.

    The verb 'leiden' takes the preposition 'an' + dative for illnesses.

  • Ich habe eine Atemnot. Ich habe Atemnot.

    While not strictly wrong, German often omits the article for symptoms.

Dicas

Gender Rule

Always look at the second word in a German compound to find the gender. Since it's 'die Not', 'Atemnot' is feminine.

Urgency

Use this word when you want to convey that a breathing problem is serious. For light exertion, use 'außer Puste'.

Synonym Choice

In a hospital, use 'Atemnot'. With friends after a hike, 'Luftnot' or 'außer Puste' might sound more natural.

Long Vowels

The 'A' in Atem and the 'o' in Not are both long. Don't clip them too short.

Common Verb

Memorize 'Atemnot bekommen'. It's the most common way to describe the start of the symptom.

Environment

Use 'Atemnot' when discussing air pollution in Germany; it's a very common keyword in that debate.

Emergency Calls

If you call 112 in Germany, 'Atemnot' is a 'Signalwort' (signal word) that will trigger a high-priority response.

Capitalization

As a noun, 'Atemnot' must always be capitalized. The adjective 'atemlos' is not.

Doctor's Visits

Be ready to say 'Ich habe Atemnot bei...' (I have shortness of breath during...) followed by an activity.

Distinction

Don't confuse 'Atemnot' with 'Atemnotstand' (though related, the latter is much more formal and rare).

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Atem' as 'Atom' (breathing atoms of air) and 'Not' as 'Not good!'. If you have 'Atem-Not', it's 'Not good' for your breathing atoms!

Associação visual

Imagine a red 'STOP' sign shaped like a lung. The word 'NOT' is written across it in big letters. This is 'Atemnot'.

Word Web

Lunge Asthma Sport Panik Krankenhaus Sauerstoff Maske Arzt

Desafio

Try to explain to a German friend (real or imaginary) that you need to slow down because you are experiencing 'Atemnot'. Use the phrase 'Ich leide unter Atemnot'.

Origem da palavra

The word is a compound of the Middle High German 'ātem' (breath) and 'nōt' (distress/emergency). 'Atem' comes from the Proto-Germanic '*ēdumaz', which is related to the Sanskrit 'ātmán' (soul/breath). 'Not' comes from Proto-Germanic '*nautiz', meaning 'need' or 'hardship'.

Significado original: A state where the breath is in distress or in a state of emergency.

Germanic

Contexto cultural

Always take it seriously if someone uses this word. It is not a casual exaggeration in German.

English speakers often say 'I'm out of breath' for both exertion and medical issues. German distinguishes more sharply between 'außer Puste' (exertion) and 'Atemnot' (distress).

Helene Fischer's 'Atemlos' (a contrast to Atemnot) Thomas Mann's 'Der Zauberberg' (medical themes) German Red Cross (DRK) training manuals

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Beim Arzt (At the doctor)

  • Ich habe Atemnot.
  • Wann tritt die Atemnot auf?
  • Haben Sie Atemnot im Liegen?
  • Die Atemnot ist schlimmer geworden.

Im Notfall (In an emergency)

  • Hilfe, er hat Atemnot!
  • Er bekommt keine Luft!
  • Rufen Sie den Notarzt!
  • Hatten Sie das schon mal?

Beim Sport (During sports)

  • Ich bekomme schnell Atemnot.
  • Meine Kondition ist schlecht.
  • Ich muss eine Pause machen.
  • Die Luft ist hier sehr dünn.

In der Apotheke (At the pharmacy)

  • Haben Sie etwas gegen Atemnot?
  • Verursacht das Spray Atemnot?
  • Ich brauche mein Asthmaspray.
  • Es hilft bei akuter Atemnot.

Nachrichten/Umwelt (News/Environment)

  • Feinstaub verursacht Atemnot.
  • Die Luftqualität ist schlecht.
  • Gefahr für Asthmatiker.
  • Zunahme von Atemwegserkrankungen.

Iniciadores de conversa

"Hatten Sie schon einmal Atemnot nach dem Sport?"

"Was sollte man tun, wenn jemand plötzlich Atemnot bekommt?"

"Glaubst du, dass die Luftverschmutzung in Städten zu mehr Atemnot führt?"

"Wie fühlt sich Atemnot deiner Meinung nach an?"

"Kennst du Hausmittel, die bei leichter Atemnot helfen?"

Temas para diário

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du dich 'atemlos' gefühlt hast. War es Atemnot oder Freude?

Wie wichtig ist saubere Luft für unsere Gesundheit? Erörtere das Thema Atemnot.

Stell dir vor, du bist ein Arzt. Schreibe einen Bericht über einen Patienten mit Atemnot.

Was würdest du tun, wenn du auf einer Wanderung plötzlich Atemnot bekämst?

Reflektiere über die metaphorische Bedeutung von Atemnot in einer stressigen Arbeitswelt.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Yes, while it is used in everyday German, it is the standard term for dyspnea (shortness of breath) in medical contexts. Doctors and patients both use it to describe respiratory distress.

If you just ran and are tired, say 'Ich bin außer Puste'. If you feel a medical difficulty, say 'Ich habe Atemnot'.

The plural is 'Atemnöte', but it is very rarely used. You will almost always encounter the singular form 'die Atemnot'.

Yes, you can use it to describe a situation that feels 'suffocating' or 'stifling', such as 'bürokratische Atemnot' (bureaucratic suffocation).

They are mostly synonymous. 'Luftnot' is slightly more colloquial, while 'Atemnot' is the standard, more formal term.

Yes, because the last part of the compound, 'die Not', is feminine. It is always 'die Atemnot'.

It is a long, closed 'o', similar to the 'o' in the English word 'note', but without the 'u' sound at the end. Think of the German word 'Boot'.

The most common are: haben, bekommen, leiden an, verspüren, and auslösen.

Yes, Atemnot is the primary symptom of an asthma attack. In German, you would say 'Asthma verursacht Atemnot'.

No. Unlike 'atemlos', which can describe positive excitement, 'Atemnot' is always negative and refers to distress.

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence using 'Atemnot' and 'Arzt'.

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writing

Explain what 'Atemnot' means in simple German.

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writing

Write a short dialogue between a doctor and a patient with Atemnot.

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writing

Describe the symptoms of asthma using the word 'Atemnot'.

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writing

Write a formal sentence about air pollution and Atemnot.

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writing

Use 'leiden an' and 'Atemnot' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Atemnot' in a metaphorical sense.

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writing

Describe a panic attack using 'Atemnot'.

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writing

Write an emergency call transcript mentioning Atemnot.

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writing

Compare 'Atemnot' and 'Kurzatmigkeit' in two sentences.

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writing

Write a sentence with 'plötzliche Atemnot'.

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writing

Explain why smoking is bad using 'Atemnot'.

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writing

Write a sentence with 'Atemnot' and 'Sport'.

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writing

Use 'wegen' + genitive with 'Atemnot'.

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writing

Describe the feeling of Atemnot.

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writing

Write a sentence about mountain climbing and Atemnot.

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writing

Use 'lindern' and 'Atemnot'.

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writing

Write a sentence about an allergy causing Atemnot.

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writing

Explain the etymology of Atemnot.

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writing

Write a sentence with 'Atemnot' and 'Angst'.

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Ich habe Atemnot.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Fragen Sie den Arzt: 'Ist das Atemnot?'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Ich bekomme beim Sport Atemnot.'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Rufen Sie bitte einen Arzt, ich habe Atemnot!'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Die Atemnot ist heute schlimmer als gestern.'

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speaking

Erklären Sie: 'Ich leide an chronischer Atemnot.'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Das Medikament hilft mir gegen die Atemnot.'

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speaking

Fragen Sie: 'Haben Sie Atemnot, wenn Sie flach liegen?'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Die plötzliche Atemnot hat mich sehr erschreckt.'

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speaking

Diskutieren Sie: 'Wie kann man Atemnot bei Asthma verhindern?'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Ich spüre eine beklemmende Atemnot.'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Die Atemnot ist ein Symptom vieler Krankheiten.'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Ich habe keine Atemnot mehr.'

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Sagen Sie: 'Die Luft ist schlecht, ich kriege Atemnot.'

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speaking

Fragen Sie: 'Seit wann haben Sie diese Atemnot?'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Atemnot ist ein Notfall.'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Ich muss wegen meiner Atemnot zum Spezialisten.'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Durch die Allergie habe ich oft Atemnot.'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Atmen Sie tief ein, um die Atemnot zu lindern.'

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speaking

Sagen Sie: 'Atemnot kann beängstigend sein.'

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and write: 'Ich habe Atemnot.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Die Patientin klagt über Atemnot.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Haben Sie oft Atemnot?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Plötzliche Atemnot ist gefährlich.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Er leidet an chronischer Atemnot.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Das Spray hilft gegen die Atemnot.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Atemnot kann viele Ursachen haben.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Rufen Sie bei Atemnot den Notarzt.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Die Atemnot verschlechterte sich in der Nacht.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Die klinische Bezeichnung ist Dyspnoe.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Ich bekomme Atemnot beim Treppensteigen.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Keine Panik bei leichter Atemnot.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Die Atemnot ist ein Warnsignal.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Sie klagt über zunehmende Atemnot.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Atemnot ist sehr unangenehm.'

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/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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