Karma
/ˈkaʀma/neuter
The German word for karma is Karma.
Karma refers to the total effect of a person’s actions and conduct during the successive phases of his existence. While Karma is used for this specific concept, you can express the idea of fate or destiny using Schicksal or more poetically describe the concept as Gerechtigkeit des Universums (justice of the universe).
Meaning: the total effect of a person’s actions and conduct during the successive phases of his existence (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
Karma is a neuter noun, meaning it is used with the neuter article das (e.g., das Karma).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkaʀma/
Did you know?
- Germans sometimes use the English phrase 'Instant Karma' even when speaking German to describe a quick consequence.
- In German, Karma is typically not used to describe a 'good vibe' or a person's aura, unlike some English slang usages.
- While Karma is used for the spiritual concept, if you want to talk about 'bad luck' or a 'bad hand' in a game, Germans often use the term Pech instead.
Examples in context
- Was ist Karma?What is karma?This sentence is useful for asking for a definition of Karma.Tatoeba #14017535 by araneo, translation #13604648 by araneo
- Das Konzept des Karma wird in vielen asiatischen Kulturen verehrt.The concept of karma is revered in many Asian cultures.
- Der Glaube an Karma prägt viele Aspekte des Hinduismus.The belief in karma shapes many aspects of Hinduism.
- Irgendwann bekommt jeder das, was er verdient.Eventually, everyone gets what they deserve.
- Ich glaube an das Prinzip von Karma.I believe in the principle of karma.
- Man sagt, dass Karma alles ausgleicht.They say that karma balances everything out.
Example conversation
Maximilian and Laura are discussing a strange coincidence.
- MaximilianHast du das gerade gesehen?Did you just see that?
- LauraJa, das ist wohl Karma.Yes, that is probably karma.
- MaximilianGlaubst du wirklich daran, Laura?Do you really believe in that, Laura?
- LauraJa, ich glaube an Karma.Yes, I believe in karma.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “karma” translations and entries Karma, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
