Lähmung
/ˈlɛːmʊŋ/feminine
The English word paralysis is translated into German as Lähmung. Wiktionary also lists Paralyse and Muskellähmung.
Meaning: loss of muscle control (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Lähmung | /ˈlɛːmʊŋ/ /ˈleːmʊŋ/ |
feminine |
| Paralyse | /ˌpaʁaˈlyːzə/ | feminine |
| Muskellähmung | feminine |
The terms are used to describe the loss of muscle control. While Lähmung is the standard term for both physical medical conditions and figurative uses, such as a 'paralysis of the soul', Muskellähmung specifically refers to muscle paralysis.
Which one should you use?
Lähmung is the standard, most common term used in everyday language for both medical and figurative contexts. In contrast, Paralyse is a more technical medical term specifically referring to damage to the nervous system. If you wish to describe a symptom or a sign of paralysis rather than the state itself, you can use the compound noun Lähmungserscheinung.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective form of the noun Lähmung is gelähmt, which means paralyzed.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈlɛːmʊŋ/
Did you know?
- The word Paralyse originates from the Ancient Greek word parálusis, which literally means a 'loosening' or 'dissolution'.
- While English speakers typically say they are 'frozen' by fear, Germans use the adjective gelähmt to describe this state of paralysis.
- In German news and politics, you will often hear the term Lähmung used to describe a government or parliament that is unable to function or pass laws.
Examples in context
- Apathie ist eine Lähmung der Seele, ein früher Tod.Apathy is a paralysis of the soul, an early death.This sentence uses Lähmung to describe a figurative paralysis of the soul.Tatoeba #12423183 by Yorwba, translation #12365356 by Miktsoanit
- Teilnahmslosigkeit ist eine Lähmung der Seele, ein vorzeitiger Tod.Apathy is a paralysis of the soul, a premature death.Tatoeba #13072818 by Yorwba, translation #12365365 by Miktsoanit
- Seine Lähmung schreitet fort, und bald wird er nicht mehr aufstehen können.His paralysis is progressing, and soon he won't be able to get out of bed.This sentence uses Lähmung to describe a medical condition.Tatoeba #4091511 by Esperantostern, translation #4091060 by Lepotdeterre
- Die Patientin leidet unter einer Lähmung.The patient suffers from paralysis.
- Die Paralyse ist durch einen Nervenschaden verursacht.The paralysis is caused by nerve damage.
- Meine Lähmung schränkt meine Bewegungsfreiheit ein.My paralysis limits my freedom of movement.
- Wir müssen die Ursache für Ihre Lähmung herausfinden.We need to determine the cause of your paralysis.
- Ja, ich kämpfe immer noch mit dem Gelähmtsein.Yes, I'm still struggling with being paralyzed.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A doctor is explaining a medical diagnosis to a patient.
- LauraDie Lähmung im linken Bein ist sehr schwerwiegend.The paralysis in the left leg is very severe.
- JulianWird diese Lähmung jemals ganz verschwinden?Will this paralysis ever disappear completely?
- LauraDas kann ich Ihnen jetzt noch nicht sagen.I cannot tell you that right now.
- JulianVerstehe, ich habe große Angst davor.I understand, I am very afraid of it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “paralysis” translations and entries Lähmung, Paralyse, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Lähmung, Paralyse, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
