mein Rücken tut weh
To say "my back hurts" in German, you use mein Rücken tut weh.
This phrase is a statement used to express that one is experiencing physical pain in the back area. You can also use the alternative Ich habe Rückenschmerzen to say "I have back pains", which uses the noun Rückenschmerzen (back pains) instead of the verb phrase.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase mein Rücken tut weh is composed of mein (my), Rücken (back), tut (does/is) and weh (pain/hurt). The combination weh tun is a separable verb meaning "to hurt".
How does it change in a sentence?
Because Rücken is a singular noun, the verb tun must be conjugated in the third-person singular as tut.
Did you know?
- If you were to say 'mein Rücken weht', it would actually mean 'my back is blowing/wafting', because wehen means to blow like the wind.
- The English word 'ridge' is a distant relative of the German word Rücken, as both share roots describing a raised or prominent part.
- The word weh is also found in the exclamation Ach du Weh!, which is an expression of sympathy or dismay similar to 'Oh dear!'
Examples in context
- Mein Rücken tut weh.My back hurts.This sentence is a simple statement of the phrase.Tatoeba #905634 by Esperantostern, translation #881871 by CK
- Doktor, mein Rücken tut weh.Doctor, my back hurts.This sentence shows how to address a doctor while expressing that your back hurts.Tatoeba #11497401 by carlosalberto, translation #11256776 by carlosalberto
- Entschuldigen Sie bitte, aber mein Rücken schmerzt. Könnten Sie mir helfen?Excuse me please, but my back hurts. Could you help me?
- Mann, ich habe echt Rückenschmerzen. Vielleicht habe ich mich gestern überanstrengt.Man, I really have back pain. Maybe I overexerted myself yesterday.
- Ich kann nicht aufstehen, mein Rücken tut weh.I cannot stand up, my back hurts.
Example conversation
Julian and Sarah are relaxing in the living room after cleaning the house.
- JulianIch bin sehr müde, mein Rücken tut weh.I am very tired, my back hurts.
- SarahVielleicht solltest du dich kurz hinlegen, Julian.Maybe you should lie down for a bit, Julian.
- JulianJa, das ist eine gute Idee.Yes, that is a good idea.
- SarahSoll ich dir ein Kissen bringen?Should I bring you a pillow?
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Rücken, mein, rücken, weh, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
