ich mache mir Sorgen
The English phrase "I am worried" is translated into German as ich mache mir Sorgen.
This phrase is used to express that someone feels anxious or uneasy about a possible problem or situation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase ich mache mir Sorgen literally translates to "I make to myself worries".
Which one should you use?
While ich mache mir Sorgen is a common idiomatic way to say "I am worried", the phrase Ich bin besorgt is a more formal or state-oriented way to express being concerned.
Did you know?
- In some German dialects, the word mir can actually mean 'we' instead of 'me'.
- The word Sorgen can also act as a verb, sorgen für, which means 'to take care of' something, showing a shift from 'worrying' to 'providing care'.
- The phrase ich mache mir Sorgen can be used as a gentle way to start a difficult conversation or to show empathy toward someone else.
Examples in context
- Ich mache mir Sorgen um sie.I am worried about her.This sentence is useful for showing how to express being worried about someone using ich mache mir Sorgen.Tatoeba #3138276 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #8952865 by Adelpa
- Ich mache mir Sorgen um meine Prüfungen.I am worried about my exams.
- Ich mache mir Sorgen um die Prüfung.I am worried about the exam.
- Ich mache mir Sorgen wegen des Wetters.I am worried because of the weather.
Example conversation
Julia and Lukas are talking about a late friend.
- JuliaEr ist noch nicht da. Ich mache mir Sorgen.He is not here yet. I am worried.
- LukasKeine Panik, Julia. Er kommt sicher bald.Don't panic, Julia. He will surely come soon.
- JuliaAber er geht nie nicht ans Telefon.But he never ignores the phone.
- LukasVielleicht hat er nur kein Netz.Maybe he just has no signal.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ich, mir, sorgen, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
