es lebe Deutschland
The English phrase "long live Germany" is translated into German as es lebe Deutschland.
This expression is used to wish for the continued success and endurance of Germany. It is typically reserved for highly formal, ceremonial or patriotic contexts, such as making a toast or delivering a speech.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the impersonal pronoun es (it), the subjunctive form of the verb leben (to live) and the noun Deutschland (Germany).
How does it change in a sentence?
In this context, the subjunctive is used to express a wish or a formal exhortation rather than a simple statement of fact.
Did you know?
- In modern Germany, shouting patriotic slogans like es lebe Deutschland in public is rare and can be perceived as overly nationalistic or politically charged.
- The word Deutschland originates from the Old High German word diutisc, which meant 'of the people'. This distinguished the common people's language from the Latin used by the clergy and scholars.
- While es lebe Deutschland is used for the nation, the phrase lang lebe is more common when referring to a specific person, such as a monarch.
Examples in context
- Es lebe Deutschland!Ladies and gentlemen, honored guests, I proudly present to you our great nation. Let us all join together and proclaim, 'Es lebe Deutschland!'
- Man sagt oft: Es lebe Deutschland.People often say: Long live Germany.
- In der Rede rief er: Es lebe Deutschland!In the speech, he cried: Long live Germany!
Example conversation
Lukas and Julia are watching a national celebration.
- LukasSchau dir die Flaggen an!Look at the flags!
- JuliaJa, es ist ein toller Tag.Yes, it is a great day.
- LukasEs lebe Deutschland!Long live Germany!
- JuliaDas sage ich auch!I say that too!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Deutschland, es, CC BY-SA 4.0.
