Genie
/ʒeˈniː/neuter
The English word 'genius' is translated into German as Genie.
Genie refers to someone possessing extraordinary intelligence or skill. If you are specifically referring to a child prodigy or a young person with extraordinary abilities, the German term Wunderkind is more appropriate.
Meaning: someone possessing extraordinary intelligence or skill (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
Genie is a neuter noun. Because of this, it is always das Genie regardless of the gender of the person being described.
How do you pronounce it?
/ʒeˈniː/
Did you know?
- The adjective genial in German is frequently used in casual speech to mean 'great' or 'awesome' rather than just 'intellectually brilliant'.
- In German legal and artistic history, Geniekult refers to the 18th-century 'cult of genius' that elevated the artist to a god-like status during the Sturm und Drang movement.
- The word Genie was borrowed into German from the French word génie.
Examples in context
- Er gilt als Genie.He is said to be a genius.This sentence is useful for saying someone is considered a genius.Tatoeba #1008183 by Sudajaengi, translation #301764 by CK
- Sie ist ein Genie.She is a genius.This sentence is useful for stating that a female is a genius.Tatoeba #1426460 by Esperantostern, translation #927087 by sundown
- Du bist ein Genie.You are a genius.This sentence is useful for telling someone they are a genius.Tatoeba #1907266 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1895825 by CK
- Er ist ein GenieHe is a genius
- Sie hat eine geniale IdeeShe has a genius idea
- Das ist eine geniale IdeeThat's a genius idea
- Sie ist absolut genialShe is absolutely brilliant
- Er ist ein echtes Supertalent am KlavierHe is a true genius at the piano
- Unser Mathelehrer ist ein echtes Mega-HirnOur math teacher is a real genius
- 119 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a talented musician they saw at a concert.
- JuliaHast du den Pianisten gesehen?Did you see the pianist?
- MaximilianJa, er ist ein absolutes Genie.Yes, he is an absolute genius.
- JuliaMaximilian, du hast recht, er war toll.Maximilian, you are right, he was great.
- MaximilianIch war von seinem Talent begeistert.I was thrilled by his talent.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “genius” translations and entries Genie, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Genie, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
