Gelassenheit
[ɡəˈlasn̩haɪ̯t]
The German word for serenity is Gelassenheit.
Gelassenheit refers to a lack of agitation, often used to describe serenity or equanimity. It is frequently used in philosophical, psychological or spiritual contexts to describe a stoic or calm temperament.
Meaning: lack of agitation (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The noun Gelassenheit is derived from the adjective gelassen, which means 'let alone' or 'left alone', implying a state of having let go of things.
Which one should you use?
While Ruhe also means peace or quiet, Gelassenheit specifically implies a psychological state of being unperturbed or composed in the face of stress.
How does it change in a sentence?
As a feminine noun, Gelassenheit takes the feminine article die. It can be pluralized as Gelassenheiten, although the plural is rarely used when referring to emotional serenity.
Did you know?
- In German, the adjective gelassen can be used as a sarcastic reaction to someone who is overly calm in a crisis, implying they are indifferent or uncaring.
- The philosopher Martin Heidegger used Gelassenheit to describe a specific way of relating to technology by 'letting things be' rather than trying to control them.
- In a medical or psychological context, Gelassenheit is often used to describe a patient's 'acceptance' of a terminal diagnosis or an incurable condition.
Examples in context
- Herr, gib mir die Kraft, die Dinge zu ändern, die ich ändern kann, die Gelassenheit, das Unabänderliche zu ertragen und die Weisheit, zwischen diesen beiden Dingen die rechte Unterscheidung zu treffen.Lord, grant me the strength to change the things that I can change, the serenity to endure the inevitable, and the wisdom to correctly distinguish between the two.This sentence shows how Gelassenheit can be used to describe the ability to endure the inevitable.Tatoeba #2228472 by Esperantostern, translation #13308777 by frpzzd
- Ich bewahre stets meine Gelassenheit in stressigen Situationen.I always maintain my serenity in stressful situations.
- Nach dem Yoga-Training verspüre ich einen tiefen Seelenfrieden.After the yoga session, I feel a deep serenity of the mind.
- Ich genieße die friedliche Stille des Sees – es strahlt wahrhaftige Gelassenheit aus.I enjoy the peaceful silence of the lake – it radiates true serenity.
- Lass uns diesen wunderschönen Strand besuchen und in vollkommener Entspannung die Sonne genießen.Let's visit this beautiful beach and enjoy the sun in complete serenity.
- Die Stube ist ein Ort der Gemütlichkeit. Hier finde ich meine innere Ruhe.The living room is a place of coziness, this is where I find my inner serenity.
- Wenn ich in den Bergen wandere, spüre ich eine tiefe Innigkeit und Zufriedenheit.When I hike in the mountains, I feel a deep serenity and contentment.
- Seine Gelassenheit in der Krise war beeindruckend.His serenity during the crisis was impressive.
- Ich bewundere deine innere Gelassenheit.I admire your inner serenity.
Example conversation
Two colleagues are talking in a quiet office lounge.
- MaximilianWie bewahrst du deine Gelassenheit bei so viel Stress?How do you maintain your serenity with so much stress?
- JuliaIch versuche einfach, ruhig zu bleiben.I just try to stay calm.
- MaximilianDu bist wirklich ein sehr gelassener Mensch, Julia.You are a very serene person, Julia.
- JuliaDanke, Maximilian, das ist sehr nett von dir.Thank you, Maximilian, that is very kind of you.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Gelassenheit, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
