Such dir ein Leben
The English phrase "get a life" can be translated into German as Such dir ein Leben.
This expression is used to tell someone that they should find a more interesting, eventful or worthwhile existence.
Meaning: to have a more interesting, eventful, or worthwhile existence (verb)
Which one should you use?
You can also use the informal phrase Leb' mal dein eigenes Leben! to tell someone it is time for them to live their own life.
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form Such dir ein Leben uses the informal singular imperative, which is used when addressing one person you know or are arguing with.
Did you know?
- The root of the word leben comes from the Proto-Indo-European word leyp-, which meant 'leave' or 'cling'.
- If you use the phrase Such dir ein Leben with a stranger or a boss, it would be considered extremely rude because it uses the informal 'du' form.
- While the English 'get a life' is an imperative command, the German phrase Such dir ein Leben uses the reflexive pronoun dir, which literally means 'for yourself'.
Examples in context
- Leb' mal dein eigenes Leben!It's time for you to live your own life!
Example conversation
Maximilian is obsessing over a celebrity's private life.
- LauraWarum liest du schon wieder diese Klatschmagazine?Why are you reading these gossip magazines again?
- MaximilianIch muss wissen, wen sie jetzt datet!I need to know who she is dating now!
- LauraEhrlich, Maximilian, such dir ein Leben.Honestly, Maximilian, get a life.
- MaximilianDas ist doch mein Hobby!But this is my hobby!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Leben, dir, ein, leben, CC BY-SA 4.0.
