Phönix
/ˈføː.nɪks/
The English phrase phoenix can be translated into German as Phönix.
The German word Phönix refers to the mythical bird, whereas the city in Arizona is typically referred to by its English name, Phoenix, in German contexts.
Meaning: capital city of Arizona, United States (noun)
Which one should you use?
The German word Phönix is used for the mythological bird, while the city in Arizona is usually referred to by its English name, Phoenix, even when speaking German.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈføː.nɪks/
Did you know?
- While Phönix refers to the bird, the Greek root phoînix originally meant 'deep red' or 'purple' to describe the bird's plumage.
- German uses Phönix as a common name for companies undergoing a rebranding or restart, signaling a rebirth from a previous failure.
- In some older German literary texts, the Phönix is used as a synonym for something unique or one-of-a-kind, rather than just a bird that returns to life.
Examples in context
- Der Phönix stieg aus seiner Asche.The phoenix rose from its ashes.This sentence shows how the word Phönix is used regarding the mythical bird rising from ashes.Tatoeba #11265053 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #6937908 by Hybrid
- Conchita Wurst gewann 2014 den Liederwettbewerb der Eurovision mit dem Lied „Steige auf wie ein Phönix“.Conchita Wurst won the Eurovision Song Contest 2014 with the song "Rise Like a Phoenix."This sentence uses Phönix as part of a song title.Tatoeba #6301606 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #3243693 by Hybrid
- Maria steigt wie ein Phönix aus der Asche.Maria rises like a phoenix from the ashes.This sentence uses Phönix in a metaphorical comparison.Tatoeba #7036504 by list, translation #11284556 by carlosalberto
- Der Vogel Phoenix ist ein Symbol für Wiedergeburt und Unsterblichkeit.The bird Phoenix is a symbol of rebirth and immortality.
Example conversation
Laura and Julian are talking about their travel plans for the USA.
- LauraIch fliege im Sommer nach Phönix.I am flying to Phoenix in the summer.
- JulianIst es dort in Phönix nicht zu heiß?Isn't it too hot there in Phoenix?
- LauraJa, aber ich mag die Sonne.Yes, but I like the sun.
- JulianDann wünsche ich dir viel Spaß!Then I wish you a lot of fun!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Phönix, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Phönix, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
