At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'die Narbe' means 'scar'. You might use it in very simple sentences like 'Ich habe eine Narbe am Arm' (I have a scar on my arm). It's a feminine noun, so use 'die' or 'eine'. You don't need to worry about metaphorical meanings yet. Focus on the physical description. If you fall and get a permanent mark, that is a 'Narbe'. It's helpful to know this if you visit a doctor in Germany. Just remember: 'Die Narbe' (singular) and 'Die Narben' (plural). It's a basic body-related word. You might see it in a picture dictionary next to an image of a healed cut. Don't confuse it with 'Nase' (nose)! They look similar but are very different. Keep your sentences short and direct. 'Die Narbe ist klein.' 'Die Narbe tut nicht weh.'
At A2, you can start using 'die Narbe' with more adjectives and in the past tense. You might explain how you got a scar: 'Ich hatte als Kind einen Unfall, und jetzt habe ich diese Narbe.' (I had an accident as a child, and now I have this scar). You should be comfortable with the plural form 'Narben'. You might also encounter it in simple stories or fairy tales where a character has a 'Narbe im Gesicht'. It's important to start noticing the difference between a 'Wunde' (active injury) and a 'Narbe' (healed injury). You might use it when describing people: 'Er ist groß und hat eine Narbe an der Hand.' You can also use it with basic prepositions: 'unter der Narbe', 'über der Narbe'. Your vocabulary is growing, so you can describe the scar's appearance: 'alt' (old), 'neu' (new), 'groß' (big), or 'klein' (small).
At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'die Narbe' in more complex contexts, including metaphorical ones. You can talk about 'seelische Narben' (emotional scars) and how 'Erlebnisse Narben hinterlassen' (experiences leave scars). You should understand the word in medical or health-related discussions, such as 'Narbenpflege' (scar care) or 'Narbengewebe' (scar tissue). You are expected to use correct declension: 'Wegen meiner Narbe...' (Genitive/Dative). You can also participate in conversations about past injuries or life experiences that 'scars' a person or a place. For example, 'Die Stadt hat viele Narben aus dem Krieg.' You should also be aware that 'Narbe' has a botanical meaning (stigma), though you might not use it daily. Your ability to use 'Narbe' to describe both physical reality and abstract feelings shows you are moving into intermediate territory. You can use verbs like 'verheilen' (to heal) or 'verblassen' (to fade) in combination with 'Narbe'.
At B2, your use of 'die Narbe' should be nuanced. You can discuss the social and psychological implications of scars. You might read articles about 'Schönheitschirurgie' (plastic surgery) to remove 'Narben' or literature where 'Narben' symbolize a character's internal conflict. You should be familiar with more advanced collocations like 'tiefe Narben hinterlassen' or 'Narben davontragen' (to come away with scars). You can use the word in formal writing, perhaps in a report about the long-term effects of an event. You understand the botanical term 'Narbe' in scientific texts without confusion. You can describe the texture and type of scars using specific terms like 'wulstig' (bulgy/keloid) or 'eingesunken' (atrophic). Your understanding of the word is no longer just 'a mark on the skin' but a multifaceted term representing history, trauma, and biological processes. You can also use the word in the context of 'Landschaftsnarben' (scars in the landscape) caused by mining or construction.
At the C1 level, you use 'die Narbe' with stylistic precision. You might use it in an essay to describe the 'Narben der Vergangenheit' (scars of the past) in a nation's history, using it as a powerful rhetorical device. You understand subtle distinctions between 'Narbe', 'Mal', and 'Stigma'. You can follow complex medical explanations about 'Narbendehiszenz' (scar dehiscence) or 'hypertrophe Narben'. You are comfortable with the word in high-level literature, where 'die Narbe' might be a central motif. You can express complex ideas like 'Die Narbe ist ein Zeugnis seiner Widerstandsfähigkeit' (The scar is a testament to his resilience). Your vocabulary includes related verbs like 'vernarben' (to scar over) and you use them correctly in various tenses. You can discuss the ethics of 'Narbenkorrektur' or the cultural history of 'Schmisse' in German universities. Your command of the word allows you to use it in any register, from colloquial storytelling to academic analysis.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 'die Narbe'. You can appreciate and use the word in its most abstract and poetic forms. You might analyze how a poet uses the 'Narbe' of a flower as a metaphor for fertility or how a historian describes the 'Narben' on a medieval manuscript. You are aware of rare technical terms and can engage in professional-level discussions in fields ranging from dermatology to botany to sociology. You understand the etymology of the word (from Middle High German 'narwe') and how its meaning has shifted or stayed constant over centuries. You can use 'Narbe' in sophisticated puns or wordplay. Your use of the word is effortless, and you can explain its various connotations and cultural weights to others. You are sensitive to the emotional weight the word carries in different contexts and can use it to evoke specific feelings in your audience, whether you are writing a novel, giving a speech, or conducting a clinical consultation.

die Narbe em 30 segundos

  • Die Narbe is a feminine noun meaning 'scar' in a medical or emotional sense, or 'stigma' in a botanical sense.
  • It refers to the permanent mark left after a wound has healed and is often used metaphorically for trauma.
  • Common collocations include 'eine Narbe hinterlassen' (to leave a scar) and 'seelische Narben' (emotional scars).
  • It is a B1 level word essential for describing physical appearance, past experiences, and medical conditions.
The German noun die Narbe (plural: die Narben) primarily refers to a 'scar'—the permanent mark left on the skin or an internal organ after a wound, burn, or surgical incision has healed. In a literal sense, it is a biological phenomenon where fibrous tissue replaces normal skin. However, its usage extends far beyond the medical realm into the metaphorical and botanical worlds. In botany, for instance, die Narbe refers to the 'stigma' of a flower, the part of the pistil that receives pollen. This dual meaning is essential for advanced learners, though the 'scar' definition is what you will encounter 95% of the time in daily conversation.
Medical Context
In clinical settings, doctors might discuss 'Narbenbildung' (scar formation) or 'Narbengewebe' (scar tissue). You might hear: 'Die Narbe verheilt gut' (The scar is healing well).
Emotional Context
Just like in English, Germans speak of 'seelische Narben' (emotional scars). These are the lingering effects of trauma or heartbreak that aren't visible to the naked eye but persist within the psyche.

Nach dem schweren Unfall blieb ihm eine tiefe Narbe im Gesicht, die ihn immer an jene Nacht erinnerte.

Understanding the weight of this word is crucial. A 'Narbe' is not just a 'Wunde' (wound); a wound is open and active, whereas a 'Narbe' is the history of that wound. It represents survival but also permanent change. In German literature and film, 'Narben' are often used as symbols of a character's past struggles or 'Vorgeschichte' (backstory). Historically, in German 'Burschenschaften' (student fraternities), facial scars known as 'Schmisse' were once seen as badges of courage, though this tradition is now largely a thing of the past. Today, the word is neutral but carries a certain gravity. Whether you are talking about a childhood scrape or a deep emotional trauma, 'die Narbe' is the word you need. It is a feminine noun, so it always takes the article 'die' in the nominative case.

Die Zeit heilt alle Wunden, aber die Narben bleiben oft ein Leben lang sichtbar.

Botanical Usage
In biology class, you might learn that 'die Narbe' is the receptive tip of a carpel, or of several fused carpels, in the gynoecium of a flower. This is a very specific, technical usage.
In summary, 'die Narbe' is a versatile word that bridges the gap between physical reality and metaphorical expression, making it a key component of B1 level German vocabulary.
Using 'die Narbe' correctly involves understanding its grammatical gender and how it interacts with different verbs. As a feminine noun, it requires 'eine' or 'die' and its plural form is 'Narben'. Common verbs associated with 'Narbe' include 'hinterlassen' (to leave behind), 'verheilen' (to heal), 'entfernen' (to remove), and 'tragen' (to carry/bear).

Die Operation hat eine große Narbe an seinem Knie hinterlassen.

In this sentence, 'hinterlassen' is used to show the result of the surgery. Note the accusative case 'eine große Narbe'. If you want to describe someone having a scar, you can simply say 'Er hat eine Narbe'.
Descriptive Adjectives
To be more specific, use adjectives: 'eine hässliche Narbe' (an ugly scar), 'eine unsichtbare Narbe' (an invisible scar), 'eine frische Narbe' (a fresh scar).
Metaphorically, you might say: 'Der Krieg hat tiefe Narben in der Gesellschaft hinterlassen' (The war left deep scars in society). This uses the plural 'Narben' and shifts the context from the individual to a collective group.

Manche Narben auf der Seele heilen nie ganz, egal wie viel Zeit vergeht.

Here, 'auf der Seele' (on the soul) specifies that we are talking about psychological impact. You can also use the word in compound nouns. 'Narbenpflege' refers to the care of scars (using creams or oils), and 'Narbengewebe' is the biological term for scar tissue.

Er benutzt täglich eine spezielle Salbe zur Narbenpflege, damit die Haut weich bleibt.

Prepositional Phrases
'Trotz der Narbe' (despite the scar), 'wegen der Narbe' (because of the scar), 'mit einer Narbe' (with a scar). Remember that 'trotz' and 'wegen' usually take the genitive in formal German, but dative is common in speech.
In professional medical reports, you might see 'Narbe nach Sektio' (scar after C-section). In literature, a character might be described as 'gezeichnet von Narben' (marked by scars). This variety of usage makes 'Narbe' a robust word for any B1 student to master.

Die Narbe am Baumstamm zeigt, wo früher ein Ast war.

Even in nature, scars exist, such as on a tree trunk. This versatility ensures that you will find 'Narbe' useful in many different conversations.
In Germany, you will hear 'die Narbe' in several distinct environments. The most common is the doctor's office or hospital. If you've had surgery, the 'Arzt' (doctor) or 'Pflegekraft' (nurse) will check the 'Wundheilung' (wound healing) to see if a 'schöne Narbe' (a 'nice' scar, meaning one that is small and flat) is forming. Another place is in the beauty and skincare industry. Advertisements for creams often promise to 'Narben reduzieren' (reduce scars).
Pop Culture
Think of Harry Potter. In German, his famous lightning bolt scar is called 'die Blitznarbe'. This is a word every German kid knows. Or the character 'Scar' from The Lion King, whose name is translated or kept, but his defining feature is always 'die Narbe'.
In news reports about war or natural disasters, journalists often use 'Narben' to describe the physical damage to cities or the psychological damage to survivors. 'Die Stadt trägt noch immer die Narben des Krieges' (The city still bears the scars of the war).

In der Psychotherapie spricht man oft über die Narben der Kindheit, die das heutige Verhalten beeinflussen.

This usage is very common in podcasts and self-help books. In everyday small talk, someone might point to a scar and tell a 'Narbengeschichte' (scar story)—how they fell off a bike or had a kitchen accident. You might also see it in crime novels (Krimis). A witness might describe a suspect as 'ein Mann mit einer auffälligen Narbe über dem linken Auge' (a man with a conspicuous scar over his left eye).

Die Kriminalpolizei suchte nach dem Täter, dessen markantestes Merkmal eine Narbe am Kinn war.

Historical Context
Scars on historical buildings (like bullet holes in Berlin) are often referred to as 'Narben der Geschichte' (scars of history), reminding people of the past.
Whether in a clinical, emotional, or historical context, 'die Narbe' is a word that signifies that something happened, it hurt, and it changed the surface forever.
One of the most frequent mistakes for English speakers is confusing 'die Narbe' with 'die Nabe'. While they look similar, 'die Nabe' means the 'hub' of a wheel (like on a bicycle or car). Mixing these up can lead to confusing sentences like 'Mein Fahrrad hat eine Narbe' (My bike has a scar), which sounds like the bike was injured. Another common error is using 'Narbe' when you actually mean 'Wunde' (wound). A 'Wunde' is an open injury that is still bleeding or healing. Once it is closed and the skin has permanently changed, it becomes a 'Narbe'. Saying 'Meine Narbe blutet' (My scar is bleeding) is technically possible if a scar gets injured again, but usually, people mean 'Meine Wunde blutet'.
Gender Confusion
Learners often forget that 'Narbe' is feminine. They might say 'der Narbe' or 'das Narbe'. Remember: 'Die Narbe' is the only correct form. Associated adjectives must also follow feminine declension: 'eine tiefe Narbe' (not 'ein tiefer Narbe').

Falsch: Ich habe einen Narbe.
Richtig: Ich habe eine Narbe.

Pronunciation can also be a hurdle. The 'r' in 'Narbe' is a vocalized 'r' in many German dialects, sounding almost like an 'a' (/naːbə/), but in standard Hochdeutsch, it's a soft uvular fricative. Don't over-pronounce the 'r' like in English 'scar'—keep it short and let the 'e' at the end be a clear schwa sound.
False Friends
In English, 'stigma' is the botanical term. In German, 'Narbe' is the botanical term. If you use 'Stigma' in German, it usually refers to a social stigma (Schandfleck or Stigma), not the flower part. Don't mix these up when talking about plants!
Finally, avoid using 'Narbe' for marks that are temporary, like a 'Bluterguss' (bruise) or a 'Kratzer' (scratch). A 'Narbe' is, by definition, permanent or long-lasting.
While 'die Narbe' is the most direct word for a scar, there are several synonyms and related terms that can add nuance to your German. For a general mark on the skin, you might use das Mal. This is often seen in 'Muttermal' (mole/birthmark) or 'Wundmal' (stigma/wound mark).
Narbe vs. Schmiss
A 'Schmiss' is a very specific type of scar—a fencing scar received during a 'Mensur' (traditional student duel). You wouldn't use 'Schmiss' for a surgical scar.
Narbe vs. Spur
'Spur' means 'trace' or 'track'. You might say 'Spuren der Gewalt' (traces of violence) to describe scars in a more poetic or investigative way.

Die alten Mauern trugen die Spuren vergangener Schlachten, tiefe Narben im Stein.

In a medical context, you might encounter die Cicatrix, though this is purely Latin/medical and not used in common speech. For emotional scars, das Trauma (the trauma) is a frequent alternative. While a 'Narbe' is the mark left behind, the 'Trauma' is the event or the ongoing psychological condition. Another related word is die Blessur, which means a minor injury or 'battle scar' in a more lighthearted or sporty sense. 'Er kam mit ein paar Blessuren davon' (He got away with a few minor injuries). However, 'Blessur' usually implies the injury itself, not necessarily the permanent scar.
Verunstaltung
If a scar is particularly large or disfiguring, the word 'Verunstaltung' (disfigurement) might be used in a legal or medical context.

Nach der Verbrennung blieb eine großflächige Narbe, die eine plastische Operation erforderte.

Understanding these alternatives helps you choose the right level of intensity and formality for your conversation. For B1 students, sticking with 'Narbe' is usually the safest and most accurate choice for both physical and emotional contexts.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Die postoperative Narbe weist eine regelrechte Heilungstendenz auf."

Neutro

"Ich habe eine Narbe am Knie, seit ich klein war."

Informal

"Guck mal, die krasse Narbe hab ich vom Skaten!"

Child friendly

"Das ist deine Zauber-Narbe, weil du so tapfer warst!"

Gíria

"Er hat ein richtiges Narbengesicht, sieht gefährlich aus."

Curiosidade

The connection between 'Narbe' and 'narrow' comes from the way a scar 'narrows' or tightens the skin. The botanical use of 'Narbe' for the stigma of a flower was introduced in the 18th century because of its shape.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ˈnaʁbə/
US /ˈnaʁbə/
Stress is on the first syllable: NAR-be.
Rima com
Farbe (color) Garbe (sheaf) Darbe (from darben - to starve) Herbe (harsh/bitter - slant rhyme) Garbe Karbe Scharbe Warbe
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing it like 'Narbe' with a hard 'r' as in English 'car'.
  • Confusing the vowel sound with 'Nabe' (long 'a').
  • Dropping the final 'e', making it sound like 'Narb'.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'r' so it sounds like 'Narr-be'.
  • Confusing it with 'Nabe' (hub).

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

The word is easy to recognize in text, especially with context.

Escrita 3/5

Remembering the feminine gender and the plural -n is key.

Expressão oral 3/5

The 'r' sound and the final 'e' require some practice for correct flow.

Audição 2/5

Distinctive sound, unlikely to be confused with other common words except 'Nabe'.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

die Haut die Wunde heilen der Unfall kaputt

Aprenda a seguir

das Gewebe die Verletzung die Entzündung vernarben das Trauma

Avançado

die Dehiszenz das Keloid die Kontraktur das Stigma die Blessur

Gramática essencial

Feminine Noun Declension

Die Narbe (Nom), der Narbe (Gen), der Narbe (Dat), die Narbe (Acc).

Plural formation with -n

Eine Narbe -> zwei Narben.

Compound Noun Construction

Narbe + Pflege = Narbenpflege (Note the filler 'n').

Adjective Endings with Feminine Nouns

Eine tiefE Narbe, die tiefE Narbe.

Prepositions with Dative/Accusative

An der Narbe (Dative location), auf die Narbe (Accusative direction).

Exemplos por nível

1

Ich habe eine kleine Narbe.

I have a small scar.

Feminine noun, accusative case.

2

Die Narbe ist am Bein.

The scar is on the leg.

Nominative subject.

3

Hast du eine Narbe?

Do you have a scar?

Question with 'haben'.

4

Meine Narbe tut nicht weh.

My scar does not hurt.

Possessive pronoun 'meine'.

5

Die Narbe ist alt.

The scar is old.

Simple predicate adjective.

6

Hier ist eine Narbe.

Here is a scar.

Introduction with 'Hier ist'.

7

Sie sieht die Narbe.

She sees the scar.

Direct object in accusative.

8

Das ist keine Wunde, das ist eine Narbe.

That is not a wound, that is a scar.

Negation with 'keine'.

1

Die Narbe kommt von einem Unfall.

The scar comes from an accident.

Preposition 'von' + dative.

2

Er hat viele Narben an den Armen.

He has many scars on his arms.

Plural 'Narben'.

3

Die Narbe verheilt sehr langsam.

The scar is healing very slowly.

Verb 'verheilen'.

4

Kann man die Narbe sehen?

Can one see the scar?

Modal verb 'kann'.

5

Ich benutze eine Creme für die Narbe.

I use a cream for the scar.

Preposition 'für' + accusative.

6

Die Narbe ist nach der Operation geblieben.

The scar remained after the operation.

Perfect tense with 'geblieben'.

7

Warum hast du diese Narbe?

Why do you have this scar?

Demonstrative 'diese'.

8

Die Narbe ist fast unsichtbar.

The scar is almost invisible.

Adverb 'fast' + adjective.

1

Die Operation hat eine deutliche Narbe hinterlassen.

The operation left a clear scar.

Verb 'hinterlassen'.

2

Manche Erlebnisse hinterlassen seelische Narben.

Some experiences leave emotional scars.

Metaphorical usage.

3

Sie schämt sich für die Narbe in ihrem Gesicht.

She is ashamed of the scar on her face.

Reflexive verb 'sich schämen für'.

4

Die Narbe juckt manchmal bei Wetterwechsel.

The scar sometimes itches when the weather changes.

Verb 'jucken'.

5

Es gibt verschiedene Methoden zur Narbenpflege.

There are different methods for scar care.

Compound noun 'Narbenpflege'.

6

Die Narbe erinnert ihn an seine Kindheit.

The scar reminds him of his childhood.

Verb 'erinnern an' + accusative.

7

Trotz der Narbe fühlt sie sich schön.

Despite the scar, she feels beautiful.

Preposition 'trotz' + genitive.

8

Die Narbe der Blume ist wichtig für die Bestäubung.

The stigma of the flower is important for pollination.

Botanical context.

1

Das Narbengewebe ist weniger elastisch als normale Haut.

The scar tissue is less elastic than normal skin.

Compound noun 'Narbengewebe'.

2

Der Krieg hat tiefe Narben in der Landschaft hinterlassen.

The war left deep scars in the landscape.

Metaphorical landscape usage.

3

Die Patientin wünscht sich eine Narbenkorrektur.

The patient desires a scar revision/correction.

Compound noun 'Narbenkorrektur'.

4

Diese Enttäuschung hat eine Narbe auf seiner Seele hinterlassen.

This disappointment left a scar on his soul.

Abstract metaphorical usage.

5

Die Narbe verblasst mit den Jahren immer mehr.

The scar fades more and more over the years.

Verb 'verblassen'.

6

Er trägt seine Narben mit Stolz.

He wears his scars with pride.

Idiomatic 'Narben tragen'.

7

Durch die Verbrennung entstand eine keloide Narbe.

A keloid scar developed as a result of the burn.

Medical adjective 'keloid'.

8

Die Narbe schmerzt bei Druck.

The scar hurts when pressure is applied.

Prepositional phrase 'bei Druck'.

1

Die Narben der Diktatur sind in der Gesellschaft noch spürbar.

The scars of the dictatorship are still palpable in society.

Sociopolitical metaphor.

2

Die Narbenbildung kann durch Silikonpflaster minimiert werden.

Scar formation can be minimized using silicone patches.

Passive voice with 'kann ... werden'.

3

Seine Lebensgeschichte ist in seine Haut gezeichnet, Narbe für Narbe.

His life story is etched into his skin, scar by scar.

Literary expression.

4

Die Narbe fungiert hier als Symbol für die Unvergänglichkeit des Schmerzes.

The scar functions here as a symbol for the permanence of pain.

Academic literary analysis.

5

Es kam zu einer Narbenkontraktur, die die Bewegung einschränkt.

A scar contracture occurred, which restricts movement.

Specialized medical term.

6

Die Narbe am Baum zeugt von einem Blitzeinschlag vor vielen Jahren.

The scar on the tree bears witness to a lightning strike many years ago.

Verb 'zeugen von'.

7

Trotz plastischer Chirurgie blieb die Narbe ein markantes Merkmal.

Despite plastic surgery, the scar remained a striking feature.

Adjective 'markant'.

8

Die Narben seiner Kindheit machten ihn zu einem verschlossenen Menschen.

The scars of his childhood made him a withdrawn person.

Causal relationship.

1

Die Topographie der Stadt ist von den Narben der industriellen Revolution geprägt.

The topography of the city is shaped by the scars of the Industrial Revolution.

Complex metaphorical passive.

2

In der botanischen Analyse spielt die Beschaffenheit der Narbe eine entscheidende Rolle.

In botanical analysis, the texture of the stigma plays a decisive role.

Technical scientific usage.

3

Jede Narbe erzählt eine Geschichte von Überleben und Resilienz.

Every scar tells a story of survival and resilience.

Philosophical statement.

4

Die Narben dehiszierten unter der extremen körperlichen Belastung.

The scars dehisced (reopened) under the extreme physical strain.

Highly technical verb 'dehiszieren'.

5

Das Werk thematisiert die unheilbaren Narben, die Kolonialismus hinterlässt.

The work addresses the incurable scars that colonialism leaves behind.

High-level cultural critique.

6

Die Narbe ist nicht nur Defekt, sondern auch Schutzwall des Organismus.

The scar is not only a defect but also a protective barrier of the organism.

Philosophical/Biological paradox.

7

Er betrachtete die Narbe als ein Palimpsest seiner eigenen Verfehlungen.

He viewed the scar as a palimpsest of his own wrongdoings.

Sophisticated metaphor 'Palimpsest'.

8

Die Narbe verhärtete sich zu einem Keloid, das chirurgisch entfernt werden musste.

The scar hardened into a keloid that had to be surgically removed.

Detailed medical narrative.

Colocações comuns

eine Narbe hinterlassen
seelische Narben
eine tiefe Narbe
die Narbe verblasst
Narben davontragen
auffällige Narbe
Narbenpflege betreiben
vernarbtes Gewebe
alte Narben aufreißen
eine Narbe im Gesicht

Frases Comuns

Narben der Vergangenheit

— Lingering effects of past events or traumas.

Die Narben der Vergangenheit heilen nur langsam.

Gezeichnet von Narben

— Physically or emotionally marked by many difficult experiences.

Sein Gesicht war gezeichnet von Narben des Lebens.

Eine Narbe überspielen

— To try to hide or ignore a scar (usually emotional).

Er versuchte, seine seelischen Narben mit Humor zu überspielen.

Narben im Herzen

— Deep emotional pain from a lost love or tragedy.

Sie trägt viele Narben im Herzen.

Eine Narbe korrigieren

— To undergo surgery to improve the look of a scar.

Sie ließ die Narbe an ihrer Schulter korrigieren.

Die Narbe schließt sich

— The final stage of a wound turning into a scar.

Langsam schließt sich die Narbe.

Sichtbare Narben

— Physical scars that everyone can see.

Er hat keine sichtbaren Narben.

Unsichtbare Narben

— Hidden emotional or psychological traumas.

Die unsichtbaren Narben sind oft die schmerzhaftesten.

Narben der Geschichte

— Traces of historical events left on buildings or landscapes.

Die Einschusslöcher sind Narben der Geschichte.

Eine Narbe verdeckt etwas

— A scar covers or obscures something else.

Die Narbe verdeckt das Tattoo.

Frequentemente confundido com

die Narbe vs die Nabe

Means the hub of a wheel. It lacks the 'r' of 'Narbe'.

die Narbe vs die Narbe (Botanik)

The same word, but means 'stigma'. Context is essential to distinguish.

die Narbe vs die Wunde

A wound is open; a scar is the result after it heals.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Alte Narben aufreißen"

— To bring back painful memories or reopen old conflicts.

Ich wollte keine alten Narben aufreißen, indem ich nach seinem Vater fragte.

common
"Gezeichnet sein"

— To be visibly affected by past hardships (often implying scars).

Nach den Jahren im Exil war er schwer gezeichnet.

literary
"Wunden heilen, Narben bleiben"

— Time may take away the immediate pain, but the memory and impact remain.

Wir haben uns versöhnt, aber Wunden heilen, Narben bleiben.

proverbial
"Eine Narbe davontragen"

— To suffer a permanent physical or emotional consequence from an event.

Er trug von dem Vorfall eine tiefe Narbe davon.

neutral
"Die Narben der Zeit"

— The signs of aging or historical change.

Die Narben der Zeit nagten an der alten Burg.

poetic
"Seelische Wunden werden zu Narben"

— Emotional pain eventually becomes a part of one's history.

Irgendwann werden auch diese seelischen Wunden zu Narben.

philosophical
"Narben als Orden tragen"

— To be proud of one's scars as signs of survival or battle.

Er trägt seine Narben wie Orden.

figurative
"In die gleiche Narbe schlagen"

— To hurt someone in the same way they have been hurt before (rare variation of 'in die gleiche Kerbe schlagen').

Seine Kritik schlug genau in die gleiche Narbe.

informal
"Die Narbe juckt"

— Something from the past is bothering someone again.

Immer wenn ich ihn sehe, juckt die alte Narbe.

metaphorical
"Eine Narbe hinterlassen (im Gedächtnis)"

— To leave a lasting, often negative, impression.

Dieser Film hat eine Narbe in meinem Gedächtnis hinterlassen.

figurative

Fácil de confundir

die Narbe vs Nabe

Orthographic similarity (only one letter difference).

Nabe is mechanical (wheel hub); Narbe is biological (scar).

Die Nabe des Rades ist gebrochen vs. Die Narbe auf der Haut ist alt.

die Narbe vs Wunde

Related concepts of injury.

Wunde is the active, open injury. Narbe is the permanent mark left after healing.

Die Wunde blutet noch vs. Die Narbe ist verheilt.

die Narbe vs Mal

Both refer to marks on the skin.

Narbe specifically comes from an injury. Mal is a general mark (like a mole).

Er hat ein Muttermal am Rücken vs. Er hat eine Narbe am Knie.

die Narbe vs Stigma

Both can be used for 'stigma' in different languages.

In German, 'Stigma' usually means social shame. 'Narbe' is the botanical stigma.

Das soziale Stigma der Armut vs. Die Narbe der Tulpe.

die Narbe vs Kratzer

Both are skin marks.

A 'Kratzer' (scratch) is superficial and usually disappears. A 'Narbe' is permanent.

Das ist nur ein kleiner Kratzer vs. Das ist eine bleibende Narbe.

Padrões de frases

A1

Ich habe eine [Adjective] Narbe.

Ich habe eine kleine Narbe.

A2

Die Narbe ist von [Noun].

Die Narbe ist von einem Sturz.

B1

Die Operation hat eine [Adjective] Narbe hinterlassen.

Die Operation hat eine hässliche Narbe hinterlassen.

B1

Er/Sie leidet unter seelischen Narben.

Sie leidet unter seelischen Narben aus ihrer Kindheit.

B2

Trotz der Narbe [Verb] [Subject]...

Trotz der Narbe fühlt er sich selbstbewusst.

C1

Die Narben der [Genitive Noun] sind noch immer sichtbar.

Die Narben der Vergangenheit sind noch immer sichtbar.

C1

Das Gewebe ist stark vernarbt.

Das Gewebe an seinem Bein ist stark vernarbt.

C2

Die Narbe fungiert als Metapher für...

Die Narbe fungiert als Metapher für den gesellschaftlichen Bruch.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

Como usar

frequency

Common in medical, personal, and metaphorical contexts.

Erros comuns
  • Ich habe einen Narbe. Ich habe eine Narbe.

    'Narbe' is feminine, so it must use 'eine' (accusative feminine) not 'einen' (accusative masculine).

  • Die Nabe an meinem Arm. Die Narbe an meinem Arm.

    'Nabe' means wheel hub. You must include the 'r' for 'Narbe' (scar).

  • Meine Narbe blutet. Meine Wunde blutet.

    Scars are healed tissue and don't usually bleed. If it's bleeding, it's likely still a 'Wunde'.

  • Die Narben von der Vergangenheit. Die Narben der Vergangenheit.

    While 'von' is okay in speech, using the genitive 'der Vergangenheit' is more correct and sophisticated in writing.

  • Ich habe Narber. Ich habe Narben.

    The plural of 'Narbe' is 'Narben', not 'Narber'.

Dicas

Learn the Verb

Don't just learn 'die Narbe'; also learn 'vernarben' (to scar). It's useful for describing the healing process: 'Die Wunde vernarbt gut'.

Feminine Gender

Almost all German nouns ending in -e that describe physical marks or features are feminine. 'Die Narbe' follows this pattern.

Metaphorical Power

Use 'Narben' when discussing history or deep personal changes. It's a very evocative word in German literature.

The Soft 'r'

The 'r' in 'Narbe' is very soft. Practice saying 'na-be' and then add a tiny hint of an 'r' sound in the middle.

Pharmacy Tip

If you need scar cream in Germany, ask for 'Narbensalbe' or 'Narbengel'. Every pharmacy (Apotheke) will know what you mean.

Dual Meaning

If you're into gardening, remember 'Narbe' for the flower's stigma. It helps you connect biological terms with daily life.

Avoid the Hub

Double-check your spelling! 'Nabe' (wheel hub) is a common typo for 'Narbe' (scar).

Old Scars

The idiom 'alte Narben aufreißen' is perfect for high-level B2/C1 discussions about conflict resolution.

Specify Location

In German, we usually say 'Narbe AM [Body Part]' (e.g., Narbe am Arm) rather than 'in' or 'on' as directly translated from English.

Visual Aid

Associate the word with Harry Potter's 'Blitznarbe'. It's an iconic image that makes the word stick.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Imagine a 'Narrow' line on your skin after a cut—that's a 'Narbe'. Both words start with 'Nar-'.

Associação visual

Picture a flower with a tiny 'scar' at its center where the pollen lands—that's the botanical 'Narbe'.

Word Web

Haut Wunde Heilung Unfall Operation Gewebe Blume Trauma

Desafio

Try to describe three physical scars you or your friends have, and then describe one 'seelische Narbe' from a famous movie character.

Origem da palavra

Derived from Middle High German 'narwe' and Old High German 'narwa', which originally meant 'constriction' or 'narrowness'.

Significado original: A tight or constricted place, referring to how skin pulls together when a wound heals.

Germanic; related to the English word 'narrow'.

Contexto cultural

Be sensitive when asking about scars, as they can be linked to self-harm or traumatic events. Use 'seelische Narben' with care in personal conversations.

Similar to English 'scar', but the botanical 'stigma' is almost never called a 'scar' in English, whereas 'Narbe' is the standard term in German.

Harry Potters Blitznarbe (The lightning scar) Scar (the villain from 'Der König der Löwen') Tony Montana in 'Scarface' (known for his Narbe)

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Medical/Doctor's Visit

  • Wie verheilt die Narbe?
  • Gibt es eine Salbe gegen Narben?
  • Die Narbe muss beobachtet werden.
  • Wird eine Narbe bleiben?

Psychology/Therapy

  • Seelische Narben verarbeiten.
  • Die Narben der Kindheit.
  • Alte Narben heilen lassen.
  • Sichtbare und unsichtbare Narben.

Botany/Gardening

  • Die Narbe der Lilie.
  • Pollen auf der Narbe.
  • Die klebrige Narbe.
  • Aufbau der Blüte: Kelch, Krone, Narbe.

Crime/Thriller Books

  • Der Täter hat eine Narbe.
  • Ein markantes Merkmal: die Narbe.
  • Die Narbe über dem Auge.
  • Er erkannte ihn an der Narbe.

Personal Stories

  • Diese Narbe ist von einem Fahrradunfall.
  • Ich habe diese Narbe schon ewig.
  • Willst du meine Narbe sehen?
  • Die Narbe stört mich nicht.

Iniciadores de conversa

"Hast du irgendwelche Narben, die eine interessante Geschichte haben?"

"Glaubst du, dass seelische Narben jemals komplett verschwinden?"

"Was ist die beste Methode zur Narbenpflege nach einer Operation?"

"Kennst du berühmte Filmcharaktere, die durch eine Narbe definiert werden?"

"Hast du schon mal im Biologieunterricht etwas über die Narbe einer Blume gelernt?"

Temas para diário

Beschreibe eine physische Narbe an deinem Körper. Wie hast du sie bekommen und was fühlst du, wenn du sie siehst?

Reflektiere über eine 'seelische Narbe' in deinem Leben. Wie hat sie dich als Person geformt?

Schreibe eine Kurzgeschichte über einen Detektiv, der einen Fall nur mithilfe einer alten Narbe löst.

Diskutiere die Redewendung 'Wunden heilen, Narben bleiben'. Stimmst du ihr zu?

Stell dir vor, Narben könnten sprechen. Was würde deine älteste Narbe über deine Vergangenheit erzählen?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

'Narbe' is a feminine noun. You should always use the article 'die' (e.g., die Narbe, eine Narbe). In the plural, it becomes 'die Narben'.

Yes, it is very common to speak of 'seelische Narben' (emotional scars). This refers to the lasting psychological impact of a traumatic event.

'Narbe' (with an 'r') means scar. 'Nabe' (without an 'r') means the hub of a wheel. They are pronounced differently and have completely different meanings.

Yes, in botany, 'die Narbe' refers to the stigma of a flower, which is the part of the pistil that receives pollen during reproduction.

The German word for scar tissue is 'das Narbengewebe'. It is a compound noun made of 'Narbe' and 'Gewebe' (tissue).

The plural is 'die Narben'. There is no umlaut change in the plural for this word.

You can say: 'Die Operation hat eine Narbe hinterlassen' (The operation left a scar) or 'Die Narbe von der OP verheilt gut'.

Common adjectives include: tief (deep), klein (small), groß (large), hässlich (ugly), verblasst (faded), and frisch (fresh).

No, 'Narbe' is only a noun. However, the related verb is 'vernarben', which means 'to scar over' or 'to heal with a scar'.

'Narbenpflege' refers to the care and treatment of scars, such as applying special creams or gels to make them less visible or more flexible.

Teste-se 180 perguntas

writing

Beschreibe eine Narbe, die du hast (oder eine fiktive). Wo ist sie und wie sieht sie aus?

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Was denkst du über die Redewendung 'Narben machen einen Charakter interessant'?

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Schreibe einen kurzen Dialog beim Arzt über eine Operationsnarbe.

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Erkläre den Unterschied zwischen einer Wunde und einer Narbe.

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Wie können seelische Narben das Leben eines Menschen beeinflussen?

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Beschreibe die Narbe einer Blume und ihre Funktion.

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Schreibe eine Geschichte über eine 'Blitznarbe'.

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Was sind die 'Narben der Geschichte' in deiner Stadt?

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Diskutiere die Vor- und Nachteile von Narbenkorrekturen.

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Warum sind Narben in Krimis oft so wichtig?

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Beschreibe den Prozess der Vernarbung.

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Wie geht man mit sichtbaren Narben im Alltag um?

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Schreibe ein Gedicht über eine verblassende Narbe.

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Was bedeutet 'gezeichnet vom Leben'?

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Erkläre die Etymologie von 'Narbe'.

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writing

Schreibe eine Werbeanzeige für eine Narbensalbe.

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Wie unterscheiden sich Narben bei verschiedenen Tieren?

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Warum hinterlassen manche Unfälle keine Narben?

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Welche Rolle spielen Narben in der Identität eines Menschen?

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Beschreibe eine fiktive Welt, in der Narben leuchten.

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speaking

Sprich das Wort 'Narbe' laut aus. Achte auf das 'e' am Ende.

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speaking

Erzähle von einer Narbe, die du hast.

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speaking

Erkläre jemandem, was 'seelische Narben' sind.

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Diskutiere über die Bedeutung von Narben in der Literatur.

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Beschreibe den Aufbau einer Blume und erwähne die Narbe.

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Nenne drei Adjektive, die eine Narbe beschreiben können.

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Frage einen Freund nach seiner Narbe.

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Erkläre den Unterschied zwischen Nabe und Narbe.

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speaking

Spreche den Satz: 'Die Operation hat eine Narbe hinterlassen.'

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speaking

Diskutiere, ob man Narben verstecken sollte.

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listening

Hör zu: 'Ich habe eine Narbe am Knie.' Wo ist die Narbe?

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listening

Hör zu: 'Die Narbe ist von einer Operation.' Warum hat die Person die Narbe?

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listening

Hör zu: 'Manche Narben sieht man nicht.' Was bedeutet das?

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listening

Hör zu: 'Die Narbe verblasst langsam.' Was passiert mit der Narbe?

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listening

Hör zu: 'Vernarbtes Gewebe ist oft unempfindlich.' Was ist eine Eigenschaft von vernarbtem Gewebe?

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listening

Hör zu: 'Die Narbe juckt bei Kälte.' Wann juckt die Narbe?

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Hör zu: 'Sie hat viele Narben an den Händen.' Wo sind die Narben?

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listening

Hör zu: 'Alte Narben sollte man ruhen lassen.' Was ist die Botschaft?

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listening

Hör zu: 'Die Narbe ist ein Zeugnis seiner Geschichte.' Was symbolisiert die Narbe?

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listening

Hör zu: 'Er braucht eine Narbenkorrektur.' Was braucht er?

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writing

Warum sind manche Narben weiß?

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/ 180 correct

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