What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is built from Ich (I), fühle (feel), mich (myself), nicht (not) and wohl (well/comfortable).
Which one should you use?
While Ich fühle mich nicht wohl describes a general sense of discomfort, the phrase Mir ist schlecht is used specifically to indicate nausea or an upset stomach. Additionally, Mir geht es nicht gut is a common way to say you are not doing well, often used when the cause is emotional or general rather than strictly physical.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Franconian dialect, one can say …ich fühl mich net wohl. to mean "I don't feel well."
How does it change in a sentence?
When using the verb fühlen to describe your own state of being, you must use the reflexive pronoun mich, as seen in Ich fühle mich schlecht.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying Ich fühle nicht wohl. English speakers often incorrectly omit the reflexive pronoun mich.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Entschuldigen Sie bitte, aber ich fühle mich nicht wohl.Excuse me please, but I do not feel well.
- Ich fühle mich nicht wohl heute.I am not feeling well today.
- Tut mir leid, ich fühle mich nicht wohl.I'm sorry, I am not feeling well.
Example conversation
Laura and Julian are at a dinner party.
- LauraJulian, ich fühle mich nicht wohl.Julian, I am not feeling well.
- JulianWas ist los, Laura? Hast du Fieber?What is wrong, Laura? Do you have a fever?
- LauraIch glaube, ich muss mich hinlegen.I think I need to lie down.
- JulianKomm, ich helfe dir ins Schlafzimmer.Come, I will help you to the bedroom.
