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A1 noun #2,500 mais comum 15 min de leitura

Erwachsener

At the A1 beginner level, the most important thing to understand about the word Erwachsener is its basic meaning and how to use it in very simple sentences. The word means adult or grown-up. You use it to talk about people who are not children anymore. For example, your mother, your father, your teacher, and your doctor are all adults. In German, you say: Er ist ein Erwachsener (He is an adult) or Sie ist eine Erwachsene (She is an adult). Notice that the word changes slightly depending on if you are talking about a man or a woman. This is very common in German. You also need to know the plural form, which is die Erwachsenen. You will use this when you talk about more than one adult. For example: Die Erwachsenen trinken Kaffee (The adults are drinking coffee). At this level, you do not need to worry too much about the complicated grammar rules. Just memorize these three basic phrases: ein Erwachsener (a male adult), eine Erwachsene (a female adult), and die Erwachsenen (the adults). You will see this word very often when you buy tickets for a train or a museum. The sign will usually say Erwachsene and Kinder. If you are an adult, you must buy the ticket for Erwachsene. Practice saying the word out loud. It has four syllables: Er-wach-se-ner. The stress is on the second syllable: er-WACH-se-ner. Repeat it many times until it sounds natural to you. Write down simple sentences in your notebook to help you remember. The more you practice, the easier it will become to remember and use this very important vocabulary word in your daily life.
At the A2 elementary level, you need to start understanding the grammar behind the word Erwachsener a little bit better. You already know that it means adult, but now you need to learn that it is a special kind of noun. It is a nominalized adjective. This means it takes adjective endings. When you use the definite article der (the), the ending changes. You say der Erwachsene for a man, not der Erwachsener. This is a very common mistake, so be careful! For a woman, it is die Erwachsene. In the accusative case, which you use for direct objects, the masculine form changes to einen Erwachsenen. For example: Ich sehe einen Erwachsenen (I see an adult). You will use this word a lot when talking about rules and permissions. For example, you might say: Dieser Film ist nur für Erwachsene (This movie is only for adults). Or you might talk about what adults have to do: Erwachsene müssen arbeiten (Adults have to work). You should also learn the opposite word, which is das Kind (the child), and the plural die Kinder (the children). Practice making comparisons between children and adults. For example: Kinder spielen, aber Erwachsene arbeiten (Children play, but adults work). Try to write short paragraphs describing the differences between the lives of children and the lives of adults. This will help you practice the vocabulary and the grammar at the same time. Pay attention to the endings of the word when you read German texts or listen to German speakers. Noticing the patterns is the best way to learn them naturally.
At the B1 intermediate level, you are expected to have a solid grasp of adjective declension, and therefore, you must use the word Erwachsener correctly in all four cases (nominative, accusative, dative, and genitive). You should be comfortable saying sentences like: Ich helfe dem Erwachsenen (I help the adult - dative case) or Das ist das Auto des Erwachsenen (That is the adult's car - genitive case). At this level, your vocabulary should also expand to include related concepts. You should know the word die Erwachsenenbildung, which means adult education. This is a very common topic in Germany, as many people take courses at the Volkshochschule. You should also be able to discuss the responsibilities and expectations of being an adult in society. You can use phrases like Verantwortung übernehmen (to take responsibility) and selbstständig sein (to be independent). For example: Ein Erwachsener muss Verantwortung für sein Leben übernehmen (An adult must take responsibility for his life). You should also understand the difference between biological age and maturity. You might use the adjective reif (mature) or kindisch (childish) to describe someone's behavior. For example: Er ist schon 20 Jahre alt, aber er verhält sich nicht wie ein Erwachsener; er ist sehr kindisch (He is already 20 years old, but he doesn't act like an adult; he is very childish). Practice discussing these more abstract concepts with your language exchange partners or in your German class. Writing opinion essays about the challenges of adulthood is also a great way to solidify your understanding and use of this vocabulary in a more complex context.
At the B2 upper-intermediate level, your use of the word Erwachsener should be completely natural and grammatically flawless. You should no longer have to think about the declension endings; they should come automatically. At this stage, you will encounter the word in more formal and complex texts, such as newspaper articles, sociological reports, and literature. You should be familiar with the legal terminology associated with adulthood. The term die Volljährigkeit (the age of majority) is crucial. You should be able to discuss the legal implications of turning eighteen in Germany, such as the right to vote (das Wahlrecht) and full legal capacity (die volle Geschäftsfähigkeit). You can express complex ideas like: Mit dem Erreichen der Volljährigkeit erlangt ein junger Mensch alle Rechte und Pflichten eines Erwachsenen (Upon reaching the age of majority, a young person acquires all the rights and duties of an adult). You should also be able to engage in debates about societal expectations of adults, the changing definition of adulthood in modern times, and the phenomenon of emerging adulthood. You might read articles about how young people today are taking longer to reach traditional adult milestones, such as buying a house or starting a family. Use related vocabulary like der Lebensabschnitt (the stage of life), die Unabhängigkeit (the independence), and die gesellschaftliche Norm (the societal norm). Your ability to use Erwachsener in these nuanced, abstract discussions demonstrates a high level of language proficiency and cultural understanding.
At the C1 advanced level, you are dealing with highly sophisticated and specialized language. The word Erwachsener is used in complex legal, psychological, and sociological contexts. You must understand the subtle distinctions between different legal terms. For instance, in German criminal law (Strafrecht), there is a crucial distinction between a Jugendlicher (14-17 years old), a Heranwachsender (18-21 years old), and an Erwachsener (21 and older). A Heranwachsender might still be judged under juvenile law if their maturity level is deemed insufficient. You should be able to read and understand legal texts or news reports discussing these distinctions. For example: Das Gericht entschied, auf den 19-jährigen Angeklagten Jugendstrafrecht anzuwenden, da er noch nicht die Reife eines Erwachsenen aufwies (The court decided to apply juvenile criminal law to the 19-year-old defendant, as he did not yet exhibit the maturity of an adult). Furthermore, in psychological contexts, you might discuss the concept of the inner child (das innere Kind) versus the adult self (das erwachsene Ich) in therapy or self-help literature. You should be comfortable using idiomatic expressions and complex sentence structures to articulate philosophical thoughts about the nature of adulthood, the loss of childhood innocence, and the burden of responsibility. Your vocabulary should be rich and varied, allowing you to express precise shades of meaning without hesitation.
At the C2 mastery level, your understanding and usage of the word Erwachsener are indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You grasp the deepest cultural, historical, and literary connotations of the word. You can analyze how the concept of adulthood has evolved throughout German history and literature. You might read classic German literature, such as Goethe's Bildungsromane, and discuss the protagonist's journey from youth to adulthood (das Erwachsenwerden). You can engage in high-level academic discourse regarding the sociological constructs of adulthood in different cultures. You understand and can employ rhetorical devices, irony, and sarcasm when discussing adult behavior. For example, you might critique societal norms by saying: Die sogenannte Welt der Erwachsenen ist oft nichts weiter als ein gut getarnter Kindergarten (The so-called world of adults is often nothing more than a well-disguised kindergarten). You are completely fluent in all derived forms, compound nouns, and related abstract concepts. You can write academic papers, deliver professional presentations, and participate in complex debates where the concept of adulthood is a central theme, using flawless grammar and highly sophisticated vocabulary. Your mastery of this word reflects your overall mastery of the German language and its cultural nuances.
Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

Erwachsener em 30 segundos

  • Means 'adult' or 'grown-up' in English.
  • Legally defined as 18+ years old in Germany.
  • It is a nominalized adjective, so endings change.
  • Opposite of 'das Kind' (the child).
The German noun Erwachsener is a very important word for all people who want to learn the language. It translates directly to adult or grown-up in the English language. When you are a child, you are not an adult. You must grow up over many years to become an adult. The process of growing up takes a lot of time and involves many changes. In the country of Germany, you legally become an adult when you reach the age of eighteen years old. This is a very important rule in the legal system. Before you are eighteen years old, you are considered a minor by the law. A minor cannot do all the things that an adult is legally permitted to do. For example, an adult can buy a car and sign the papers. An adult can sign a binding legal contract for an apartment. An adult can vote in a national or local election. An adult can purchase and consume alcohol legally. An adult can buy and smoke cigarettes. These are all specific actions that only an adult is allowed to do under German law. Therefore, the word Erwachsener is used very frequently in daily life and conversation. You will see this word written on signs in public places. You will hear this word spoken on the television and the radio. You will read this word in newspapers, magazines, and books. You will use this word yourself when you speak to other people in German. It is a fundamental vocabulary word that you absolutely must know to communicate effectively. Now, let us talk about the specific grammar of this word, which is very important. The grammar is a little bit difficult for beginners to understand at first. This is because the word is a nominalized adjective. What exactly does this mean for a learner? It means that the word originally comes from an adjective, but it is now being used as a noun in the sentence. Because it is used as a noun, it must always be capitalized. All nouns in the German language are capitalized, without exception. But because it comes from an adjective, it takes adjective endings. This means that the end of the word changes depending on the grammatical situation. It changes depending on the gender of the person. It changes depending on the grammatical case being used. It changes depending on the type of article that comes before it.
Definite Masculine
der Erwachsene

Er ist der Erwachsene hier.

If you use the definite article der, the word is der Erwachsene. This is the correct form for a man.
Definite Feminine
die Erwachsene

Sie ist die Erwachsene im Raum.

If you use the definite article die, the word is die Erwachsene. This is the correct form for a woman.
Indefinite Masculine
ein Erwachsener

Er ist ein Erwachsener.

If you use the indefinite article ein, the word is ein Erwachsener. This is for a man.

Sie ist eine Erwachsene.

If you use the indefinite article eine, the word is eine Erwachsene. This is for a woman. If you want to talk about more than one adult, you must use the plural form. The plural form is die Erwachsenen. This plural form is exactly the same for both men and women. You must learn all these different forms to speak correctly.

Die Erwachsenen trinken Kaffee.

If you do not learn them, you will make grammatical mistakes. Making mistakes is a normal part of learning a new language, but you should try to avoid them. You can avoid mistakes by practicing every single day. You can practice by writing many sentences in a notebook. You can practice by speaking with native German speakers online or in person. You can practice by doing grammar exercises in a textbook. We have provided many exercises for you to do in this lesson. You should complete all of them to test your knowledge. They will help you to remember the word and its endings. They will help you to use it correctly in real conversations. Understanding this word is a major step forward in your German learning journey.
Using the German word Erwachsener correctly in a sentence requires a solid understanding of German adjective declension rules. Because this noun is derived directly from an adjective, it behaves differently than standard German nouns like der Tisch or die Katze. Standard nouns have a fixed gender and their endings only change slightly in the genitive or dative plural cases. However, nominalized adjectives like Erwachsener change their endings in almost every case, depending on the article that precedes them. This is a very important concept that every language learner must master to achieve fluency. Let us break down the usage step by step to make it as clear as possible. First, you must determine the natural gender of the person you are talking about. If you are talking about a male adult, you will use the masculine forms. If you are talking about a female adult, you will use the feminine forms. If you are talking about a group of adults, you will use the plural forms. Next, you must determine the grammatical case of the noun in your sentence. Is the adult the subject of the sentence? If so, you must use the nominative case. Is the adult the direct object of the sentence? If so, you must use the accusative case. Is the adult the indirect object of the sentence? If so, you must use the dative case. Is the adult possessing something in the sentence? If so, you must use the genitive case. Finally, you must look at the article that comes before the noun. Is it a definite article like der, die, or das? Is it an indefinite article like ein or eine? Or is there no article at all?
Nominative Case
The subject of the sentence.

Ein Erwachsener muss arbeiten.

In this sentence, the adult is the subject, so we use the nominative case with the indefinite article ein, resulting in the ending -er.
Accusative Case
The direct object of the sentence.

Ich sehe einen Erwachsenen.

Here, the adult is the direct object being seen. The indefinite article changes to einen, and the noun ending changes to -en. This is a very common pattern that you will see repeatedly.
Dative Case
The indirect object of the sentence.

Ich gebe dem Erwachsenen das Buch.

In the dative case with a definite article, the ending is also -en. This makes it slightly easier to remember, as the -en ending is very common in the oblique cases.

Das ist das Auto des Erwachsenen.

This is an example of the genitive case, showing possession. Again, we see the -en ending. When you use the plural form, the rules are slightly different but follow the same logic. With a definite article in the plural, the nominative form is die Erwachsenen.

Die Erwachsenen sprechen miteinander.

If there is no article in the plural, the ending changes to -e in the nominative and accusative cases. For example, Erwachsene haben mehr Verantwortung (Adults have more responsibility). It is highly recommended that you create a declension chart in your notebook and practice writing out all the different forms. Write sentences using each form until it becomes natural to you. When you are speaking, you might not have time to think about the chart, so you need to internalize the patterns through repeated practice. Listen carefully to how native speakers use the word in different contexts. Notice the endings they use and try to mimic them. Over time, your brain will start to recognize the correct patterns automatically, and you will be able to use the word Erwachsener flawlessly in any situation. This level of mastery takes time and dedication, but it is entirely achievable with consistent effort and practice.
The word Erwachsener is ubiquitous in the German language, meaning you will encounter it in a wide variety of contexts and situations. Because it describes a fundamental stage of human life, its usage spans across everyday conversations, legal documents, commercial transactions, and societal discussions. One of the most common places you will hear and see this word is when purchasing tickets for various activities and services. Whether you are going to a museum, a cinema, a theater, an amusement park, or traveling by train or bus, you will almost always see a pricing structure that differentiates between children and adults.
Ticketing Context
Prices are usually divided into categories.

Zwei Karten für Erwachsene, bitte.

This is a standard phrase you will use when buying tickets at a counter. You will also see signs that say Preise für Erwachsene (Prices for adults) or simply Erwachsene: 10 Euro. In the context of entertainment and media, you will frequently encounter the phrase Nur für Erwachsene, which translates to Adults only.
Media Context
Age restrictions on content.

Dieser Film ist nur für Erwachsene.

This phrase is used to indicate that a movie, a video game, a book, or a specific event contains content that is not suitable for children or minors. It is a clear warning and a legal restriction in many cases. Another very common area where this word is used is in the field of education. In Germany, there is a strong tradition of lifelong learning, and the term Erwachsenenbildung is used to describe adult education.
Educational Context
Lifelong learning programs.

Sie arbeitet in der Erwachsenenbildung.

Many adults attend courses at the Volkshochschule (adult education center) to learn new languages, acquire new professional skills, or pursue hobbies. In everyday social interactions, the word is often used to discuss behavior, maturity, and responsibility. When someone is acting childishly, another person might tell them to act their age.

Verhalte dich wie ein Erwachsener!

This imperative sentence means Act like an adult! It carries the expectation that an adult should be rational, calm, and responsible for their actions. You will also hear the word in legal and administrative contexts. When discussing the age of majority, the transition from being a minor to an adult is a significant legal milestone.

Ab achtzehn ist man ein Erwachsener.

This sentence states the legal fact that one becomes an adult at the age of eighteen. In medical contexts, doctors and hospitals often have different departments for children (Pädiatrie) and adults. A doctor might explain that a certain medication has different dosages for children and adults. As you can see, the word is deeply integrated into the fabric of German society. By paying attention to your surroundings, reading signs, listening to announcements, and engaging in conversations, you will continuously encounter this word. Each encounter will reinforce your understanding of its meaning and its grammatical behavior. It is a word that bridges the gap between basic vocabulary and advanced, nuanced communication in the German language.
When learning the German word Erwachsener, students frequently make a specific set of predictable mistakes. These errors almost always stem from the fact that the word is a nominalized adjective, which means it follows adjective declension rules rather than standard noun declension rules. Understanding and anticipating these common pitfalls is the most effective way to accelerate your learning process and speak more accurately. The absolute most common mistake is treating Erwachsener like a regular masculine noun, such as der Lehrer or der Computer. A learner might think that because the nominative form with the indefinite article is ein Erwachsener, the word itself is simply Erwachsener in all contexts. This leads to incorrect sentences.
Mistake 1: Ignoring the Definite Article Ending
Using the -er ending with the definite article der.

INCORRECT: Der Erwachsener trinkt Wasser.

This is grammatically wrong. Because the definite article der is used, the strong ending -er is already present on the article, so the adjective/noun takes the weak ending -e. The correct sentence is Der Erwachsene trinkt Wasser. Another very frequent mistake occurs in the plural form. Learners often assume that the plural is formed by simply adding an -n or an -s, or they forget that the ending changes based on the presence of an article.
Mistake 2: Incorrect Plural Formation
Failing to distinguish between plural with and without an article.

INCORRECT: Die Erwachsene gehen ins Kino.

When using the definite plural article die, the nominalized adjective must take the -en ending. The correct sentence is Die Erwachsenen gehen ins Kino. However, if there is no article, the ending is -e.

CORRECT: Erwachsene zahlen zehn Euro.

Mixing up these two plural scenarios is a classic error. A third common mistake involves the feminine form. Learners sometimes use the masculine form even when referring to a woman, simply because Erwachsener is the dictionary form they memorized.
Mistake 3: Gender Confusion
Using the masculine form for a female adult.

INCORRECT: Sie ist ein Erwachsener.

While technically understandable, it is grammatically incorrect. The correct form for a female is eine Erwachsene.

CORRECT: Sie ist eine Erwachsene.

Furthermore, learners often struggle with the dative and accusative cases. They might say Ich sehe ein Erwachsener instead of the correct Ich sehe einen Erwachsenen. Or they might say Ich helfe der Erwachsene instead of the correct Ich helfe dem Erwachsenen. To overcome these mistakes, you must stop thinking of the word as a static noun and start treating it as an adjective that happens to be capitalized. Whenever you are about to use the word, pause for a second and ask yourself three questions: What is the gender? What is the case? What is the article? By systematically answering these three questions, you will consistently choose the correct ending. It takes conscious effort at first, but with practice, it will become an automatic reflex. Do not be discouraged if you make these mistakes initially; they are a necessary part of the learning curve for mastering German adjective declension.
When expanding your German vocabulary, it is highly beneficial to learn words that are similar in meaning or related in context to the target word. For the word Erwachsener, there are several important synonyms, related terms, and contrasting words that will enrich your ability to communicate about age, maturity, and stages of life. Understanding these nuances will allow you to express yourself more precisely and sound more like a native speaker. The most direct antonym, or opposite word, is of course das Kind, which means the child. This is a fundamental pair of words that you will use constantly.
Direct Antonym
das Kind (the child)

Das Ticket für das Kind ist billiger als für den Erwachsenen.

Another very important related word is der Jugendliche (for a male) or die Jugendliche (for a female), which translates to the teenager or the youth. Like Erwachsener, this word is also a nominalized adjective and follows the exact same complex declension rules.
Intermediate Stage
der/die Jugendliche (the teenager)

Er ist kein Kind mehr, er ist ein Jugendlicher.

In legal contexts, you will often hear the term der Volljährige. This word specifically refers to someone who has reached the legal age of majority, which is eighteen in Germany. While every Volljähriger is an Erwachsener, the term Volljähriger emphasizes the legal status rather than just the biological or social stage of life.

Als Volljähriger darf er wählen gehen.

Conversely, the legal term for a minor is der Minderjährige. This is someone who is under the age of eighteen and does not yet have full legal rights and responsibilities.
Legal Antonym
der Minderjährige (the minor)

Der Verkauf von Alkohol an Minderjährige ist verboten.

Another related concept is the adjective reif, which means mature. While Erwachsener refers to the state of being an adult, reif describes the quality of maturity, which can apply to behavior, fruit, or cheese. You might say that a teenager is very reif für sein Alter (mature for his age). The noun form is die Reife (the maturity). Finally, the word der Heranwachsende is a specific legal term used in the German justice system to describe young adults between the ages of 18 and 21. In criminal law, a Heranwachsender might still be tried under juvenile law (Jugendstrafrecht) if their mental and emotional development is deemed more similar to a youth than a fully mature adult.

Der Richter wendet Jugendstrafrecht auf den Heranwachsenden an.

By learning these related words—Kind, Jugendlicher, Volljähriger, Minderjähriger, reif, and Heranwachsender—you build a comprehensive vocabulary network around the central concept of Erwachsener. This network allows you to understand complex texts, follow nuanced conversations, and express your own thoughts with greater accuracy and sophistication. It transforms your understanding from a simple translation to a deep, cultural, and linguistic comprehension of how the German language categorizes the stages of human life.

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Formal

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Informal

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Gramática essencial

Exemplos por nível

1

Er ist ein Erwachsener.

He is an adult.

Nominative case, masculine, indefinite article.

2

Sie ist eine Erwachsene.

She is an adult.

Nominative case, feminine, indefinite article.

3

Die Erwachsenen trinken Kaffee.

The adults are drinking coffee.

Nominative case, plural, definite article.

4

Ich bin ein Erwachsener.

I am an adult. (male speaker)

Nominative case after the verb 'sein'.

5

Das Ticket für Erwachsene kostet zehn Euro.

The ticket for adults costs ten euros.

Plural without an article after 'für'.

6

Wir sind Erwachsene.

We are adults.

Nominative plural without an article.

7

Der Erwachsene liest ein Buch.

The adult is reading a book.

Nominative case, masculine, definite article. Note the -e ending.

8

Wo sind die Erwachsenen?

Where are the adults?

Nominative plural, definite article.

1

Dieser Film ist nur für Erwachsene.

This movie is only for adults.

Plural without article after the preposition 'für'.

2

Kinder und Erwachsene spielen zusammen.

Children and adults play together.

Plural without article as the subject.

3

Ich sehe einen Erwachsenen.

I see an adult.

Accusative case, masculine, indefinite article.

4

Erwachsene müssen jeden Tag arbeiten.

Adults have to work every day.

Plural without article as the subject.

5

Das ist ein Kurs für Erwachsene.

That is a course for adults.

Plural without article after 'für'.

6

Die Kinder fragen die Erwachsenen.

The children ask the adults.

Accusative plural, definite article.

7

Ein Erwachsener hat mehr Geld als ein Kind.

An adult has more money than a child.

Nominative case, masculine, indefinite article.

8

Geben Sie das dem Erwachsenen.

Give that to the adult.

Dative case, masculine, definite article.

1

Als Erwachsener muss man viel Verantwortung übernehmen.

As an adult, one must take on a lot of responsibility.

Nominative case after 'als'.

2

Die Erwachsenenbildung ist in Deutschland sehr wichtig.

Adult education is very important in Germany.

Compound noun using the plural stem.

3

Er verhält sich nicht wie ein Erwachsener.

He does not act like an adult.

Nominative case after 'wie'.

4

Wir bieten Sprachkurse für junge Erwachsene an.

We offer language courses for young adults.

Plural without article, preceded by an adjective.

5

Das ist die Meinung eines Erwachsenen.

That is the opinion of an adult.

Genitive case, masculine, indefinite article.

6

Ich habe mit mehreren Erwachsenen gesprochen.

I spoke with several adults.

Dative plural after 'mit'.

7

Manchmal wünsche ich mir, kein Erwachsener zu sein.

Sometimes I wish I wasn't an adult.

Nominative case with the negative article 'kein'.

8

Die Probleme der Erwachsenen sind oft kompliziert.

The problems of adults are often complicated.

Genitive plural, definite article.

1

Mit Erreichen der Volljährigkeit gilt man vor dem Gesetz als Erwachsener.

Upon reaching the age of majority, one is considered an adult before the law.

Nominative case after 'als'.

2

Der Übergang vom Jugendlichen zum Erwachsenen ist ein fließender Prozess.

The transition from youth to adult is a fluid process.

Dative case, masculine, definite article after 'zu'.

3

In der heutigen Gesellschaft stehen Erwachsene unter enormem Leistungsdruck.

In today's society, adults are under enormous pressure to perform.

Plural without article as the subject.

4

Die Literatur für junge Erwachsene erfreut sich großer Beliebtheit.

Young adult literature enjoys great popularity.

Plural without article after 'für'.

5

Es wird erwartet, dass Erwachsene ihre Konflikte rational lösen.

It is expected that adults resolve their conflicts rationally.

Plural without article in a subordinate clause.

6

Viele Erwachsene leiden unter chronischem Schlafmangel.

Many adults suffer from chronic sleep deprivation.

Plural without article as the subject.

7

Die Rolle des Erwachsenen in der Erziehung hat sich gewandelt.

The role of the adult in upbringing has changed.

Genitive case, masculine, definite article.

8

Erwachsenwerden bedeutet nicht nur älter zu werden, sondern auch reifer.

Growing up means not only getting older, but also more mature.

Nominalized verb 'Erwachsenwerden' used as a noun.

1

Im Jugendstrafrecht wird unterschieden, ob der Täter ein Heranwachsender oder bereits ein Erwachsener ist.

In juvenile criminal law, a distinction is made as to whether the perpetrator is an adolescent or already an adult.

Nominative case after 'sein' in a subordinate clause.

2

Die psychologische Entwicklung zum voll funktionsfähigen Erwachsenen ist oft von Krisen geprägt.

The psychological development into a fully functioning adult is often characterized by crises.

Dative case, masculine, definite article after 'zu'.

3

Manche Soziologen behaupten, dass das Konzept des autonomen Erwachsenen eine Illusion der Moderne sei.

Some sociologists argue that the concept of the autonomous adult is an illusion of modernity.

Genitive case, masculine, definite article.

4

Die Diskrepanz zwischen biologischem Alter und emotionaler Reife bei vielen Erwachsenen ist frappierend.

The discrepancy between biological age and emotional maturity in many adults is striking.

Dative plural after 'bei'.

5

Erwachsenenbildung fungiert als essenzielles Instrument zur Förderung des lebenslangen Lernens.

Adult education functions as an essential instrument for promoting lifelong learning.

Compound noun as the subject.

6

Die Resilienz von Erwachsenen gegenüber traumatischen Erlebnissen variiert stark.

The resilience of adults to traumatic experiences varies greatly.

Genitive plural without article.

7

In der Psychoanalyse wird oft das Verhältnis des erwachsenen Ichs zu kindlichen Traumata untersucht.

In psychoanalysis, the relationship of the adult ego to childhood traumas is often examined.

Adjective 'erwachsen' declining before the noun 'Ich'.

8

Die Infantilisierung der Gesellschaft führt dazu, dass viele sich weigern, die Rolle des Erwachsenen anzunehmen.

The infantilization of society leads to many refusing to accept the role of the adult.

Genitive case, masculine, definite article.

1

Die ontologische Bürde des Erwachsenseins manifestiert sich in der unausweichlichen Konfrontation mit der eigenen Endlichkeit.

The ontological burden of adulthood manifests itself in the inescapable confrontation with one's own mortality.

Nominalized infinitive 'Erwachsensein' in the genitive case.

2

In seinem Spätwerk dekonstruiert der Autor den Mythos des souveränen Erwachsenen als bloße gesellschaftliche Fassade.

In his late work, the author deconstructs the myth of the sovereign adult as a mere societal facade.

Genitive case, masculine, definite article.

3

Die Dialektik von kindlicher Naivität und erwachsener Desillusionierung durchzieht die gesamte Epoche der Romantik.

The dialectic of childish naivety and adult disillusionment permeates the entire epoch of Romanticism.

Adjective 'erwachsen' in the genitive feminine without article.

4

Wer den Habitus eines Erwachsenen lediglich simuliert, scheitert unweigerlich an den realen Aporien des Lebens.

Whoever merely simulates the habitus of an adult inevitably fails at the real aporias of life.

Genitive case, masculine, indefinite article.

5

Die Emanzipation des Individuums kulminiert im Status des mündigen Erwachsenen, der sich seines eigenen Verstandes bedient.

The emancipation of the individual culminates in the status of the mature adult who uses his own understanding.

Genitive case, masculine, definite article, preceded by an adjective.

6

Es bedarf einer beispiellosen kognitiven Dissonanz, um als aufgeklärter Erwachsener derart archaischen Dogmen anzuhängen.

It requires unprecedented cognitive dissonance to adhere to such archaic dogmas as an enlightened adult.

Nominative case after 'als', preceded by an adjective.

7

Die Tragik der Figur liegt in ihrer Unfähigkeit, die Schwelle zum Erwachsenenalter mental zu überschreiten.

The tragedy of the character lies in their inability to mentally cross the threshold to adulthood.

Compound noun 'Erwachsenenalter' in the dative case.

8

Letztlich ist der Begriff des Erwachsenen ein normatives Konstrukt, das der Aufrechterhaltung der sozialen Ordnung dient.

Ultimately, the concept of the adult is a normative construct that serves to maintain social order.

Genitive case, masculine, definite article.

Colocações comuns

junge Erwachsene
unter Erwachsene
für Erwachsene
Erwachsene unter sich
als Erwachsener
die Welt der Erwachsenen
Karten für Erwachsene
Filme für Erwachsene
Erwachsene und Kinder
verantwortungsvoller Erwachsener

Frases Comuns

Nur für Erwachsene.

Verhalte dich wie ein Erwachsener.

Ab 18 ist man erwachsen.

Zwei Erwachsene und ein Kind, bitte.

Erwachsene zahlen den vollen Preis.

Das ist nichts für Kinder, nur für Erwachsene.

Willkommen in der Welt der Erwachsenen.

Erwachsene haben Vorbildfunktion.

Erwachsene unterhalten sich.

Erwachsene müssen arbeiten.

Frequentemente confundido com

Erwachsener vs erwachsen (the adjective/verb)

Erwachsener vs Volljähriger (legal term)

Erwachsener vs Eltern (parents)

Expressões idiomáticas

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Fácil de confundir

Erwachsener vs

Erwachsener vs

Erwachsener vs

Erwachsener vs

Erwachsener vs

Padrões de frases

Como usar

note

Remember that while 'Erwachsener' is the dictionary form, it is only used for masculine nominative with an indefinite article or no article.

Erros comuns
  • Saying 'der Erwachsener' instead of 'der Erwachsene'.
  • Using 'Erwachsener' for a female instead of 'eine Erwachsene'.
  • Saying 'die Erwachsene' for plural instead of 'die Erwachsenen'.
  • Forgetting to capitalize the word in a sentence.
  • Using 'Erwachsener' to describe a fully grown animal.

Dicas

Master Adjective Declension

To use 'Erwachsener' correctly, you must master German adjective declension. Treat the word exactly like an adjective that happens to be capitalized. Review the strong, weak, and mixed declension tables. Practice writing sentences using all cases and genders. This is the key to fluency with this word.

Learn the Antonyms

Always learn vocabulary in pairs. The opposite of 'Erwachsener' is 'das Kind' (the child). Knowing both words allows you to make comparisons and contrasts. For example, 'Das Ticket für das Kind ist billiger als für den Erwachsenen'.

Understand 'Volljährigkeit'

In Germany, turning 18 is a massive cultural and legal milestone called 'Volljährigkeit'. This is when a person officially becomes an 'Erwachsener' in the eyes of the law. They gain the right to vote, sign contracts, and buy all types of alcohol.

Practice the Plural Forms

The plural forms are used very frequently in daily life. Practice saying 'die Erwachsenen' (with article) and 'Erwachsene' (without article). Repeat phrases like 'Karten für Erwachsene' until they roll off the tongue naturally.

Listen for the '-en' Ending

In spoken German, the '-en' ending in the dative, accusative, and plural cases is very common. Train your ear to catch this ending. It will help you understand the grammatical structure of the sentence even if you speak quickly.

Always Capitalize

Never forget to capitalize 'Erwachsener', 'Erwachsene', and 'Erwachsenen'. Even though they look like adjectives, they are nouns. Lowercase 'erwachsen' is only used when it functions purely as an adjective or verb (e.g., 'Er ist erwachsen').

Look for Signs

When you are in a German-speaking country, look at price lists at museums, cinemas, and train stations. You will constantly see the word 'Erwachsene'. Reading these signs in real life reinforces your vocabulary.

Don't Use for Animals

Remember that 'Erwachsener' is only for people. If you want to talk about an adult dog or cat, use the word 'ausgewachsen' (fully grown). Saying 'ein erwachsener Hund' sounds very strange to a native speaker.

Use Mnemonic Devices

Create a mental image to remember the word. Think of the verb 'wachsen' (to grow). An 'Er-wachsen-er' is someone who has finished growing. Visualizing the root word helps lock the vocabulary into your long-term memory.

Do the Exercises

The best way to learn the complex endings is by doing exercises. Complete all the fill-in-the-blank and multiple-choice exercises provided. Active recall is much more effective than just reading the rules.

Memorize

Origem da palavra

Contexto cultural

The transition to adulthood at 18 is legally significant in Germany, granting full 'Geschäftsfähigkeit' (legal capacity).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Iniciadores de conversa

"Ab welchem Alter gilt man in deinem Land als Erwachsener?"

"Was ist das Beste daran, ein Erwachsener zu sein?"

"Glaubst du, dass Erwachsene heute mehr Stress haben als früher?"

"Ab wann fühlt man sich wirklich wie ein Erwachsener?"

"Welchen Rat würdest du jungen Erwachsenen geben?"

Temas para diário

Beschreibe den Tag, an dem du dich zum ersten Mal wie ein echter Erwachsener gefühlt hast.

Was sind die größten Unterschiede zwischen deinem Leben als Kind und als Erwachsener?

Welche Verantwortungen als Erwachsener magst du am wenigsten?

Glaubst du, dass man jemals aufhört, erwachsen zu werden?

Schreibe einen Brief an dein jüngeres Ich über das Erwachsensein.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

This is because 'Erwachsener' is a nominalized adjective. It follows adjective declension rules. With the definite article 'der', the strong ending '-er' is already on the article, so the noun takes the weak ending '-e'. With the indefinite article 'ein', there is no strong ending on the article, so the noun must take the strong ending '-er'.

The plural depends on the article. With a definite article, it is 'die Erwachsenen'. Without an article, it is 'Erwachsene'. For example, 'Die Erwachsenen sind hier' vs. 'Erwachsene zahlen mehr'.

Yes. Because it declines like an adjective, the female form with a definite article is 'die Erwachsene'. With an indefinite article, it is 'eine Erwachsene'. The plural is the same for both genders.

The most common and natural way to say 'adults only' is 'Nur für Erwachsene'. You will see this phrase on signs, movie posters, and event descriptions.

'Erwachsener' is the general term for an adult or grown-up. 'Volljähriger' is a specific legal term meaning someone who has reached the age of majority (18 in Germany). All Volljährige are Erwachsene, but 'Volljähriger' emphasizes the legal status.

Yes. Even though it is derived from an adjective, it is used as a noun in these contexts. In German, all nouns and nominalized adjectives must be capitalized.

In the dative case, the ending is almost always '-en'. For a man: 'dem Erwachsenen' or 'einem Erwachsenen'. For a woman: 'der Erwachsenen' or 'einer Erwachsenen'. For plural: 'den Erwachsenen'.

It translates to 'adult education'. It refers to the system of continuing education for adults, often provided by institutions like the Volkshochschule (VHS) in Germany.

No, 'Erwachsener' is exclusively used for humans. For animals, you would use the adjective 'ausgewachsen' (fully grown). For example, 'ein ausgewachsener Hund' (a fully grown dog).

It can be challenging at first because it requires knowing the gender, case, and article type. However, with consistent practice and by memorizing the patterns, it becomes second nature. Creating a declension chart is highly recommended.

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