Arbeitsunfähigkeit
[ˈaʁbaɪ̯t͡sʊnfɛːɪçkaɪ̯t]feminine
The English phrase 'sick leave' can be translated into German as Arbeitsunfähigkeit. If unsure, use Arbeitsunfähigkeit. Wiktionary also lists Krankenstand.
Meaning: a type of leave from work (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Arbeitsunfähigkeit | [ˈaʁbaɪ̯t͡sʊnfɛːɪçkaɪ̯t] (narrow) [-feːɪçkaɪ̯t] (narrow) |
feminine |
| Krankenstand | [ˈkʁaŋkn̩ʃtant] (narrow) | Austrian, masculine |
Which one should you use?
Arbeitsunfähigkeit is the formal, technical term used in legal and medical contexts to describe the state of being unable to work due to illness. In contrast, Krankenstand is the common way to refer to sick leave in certain regions.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Austria, the term Krankenstand is commonly used to refer to sick leave, whereas Arbeitsunfähigkeit is the standard formal term in Germany.
How does it change in a sentence?
To officially notify an employer of sick leave, one uses the separable verb krankmelden.
Did you know?
- In Germany, workers are often required to produce a 'sick note' called a Krankschreibung to justify their Arbeitsunfähigkeit to an employer.
- The act of reporting one's sick leave via krankmelden is a distinct social ritual where the employee must usually notify the employer before the workday actually begins.
- German law differentiates between Arbeitsunfähigkeit as a medical fact and the 'entitlement to sick pay' known as Entgeltfortzahlung im Krankheitsfall.
Examples in context
- Entschuldigen Sie, aber ich muss eine Krankmeldung abgeben. Ich bin leider krank.Excuse me, but I have to submit a sick leave notice. Unfortunately, I am sick.
- Ich bin arbeitsunfähig.I am unable to work.
- Die Arbeitsunfähigkeit wurde vom Arzt bescheinigt.The sick leave was certified by the doctor.
- Eine längere Arbeitsunfähigkeit ist leider nötig.A longer period of sick leave is unfortunately necessary.
Example conversation
Lukas and Julia are coworkers talking in the office.
- LukasHat Herr Schmidt seine Arbeitsunfähigkeit schon gemeldet?Has Mr. Schmidt already reported his sick leave?
- JuliaJa, er schickt die Bescheinigung heute per Mail.Yes, he is sending the certificate by email today.
- LukasWie lange wird seine Arbeitsunfähigkeit wohl dauern?How long do you think his sick leave will last?
- JuliaIch glaube, er kommt erst nächste Woche zurück.I think he will only be back next week.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sick leave” translations and entries Arbeitsunfähigkeit, Krankenstand, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
