bleib stark
In German, "stay strong" is expressed as bleib stark.
This phrase is used to encourage someone to remain brave and resilient during a difficult time.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal translation where bleib is the imperative of bleiben (to stay/remain) and stark means "strong".
Which one should you use?
While bleib stark focuses on emotional/mental resilience, halt durch is often used to encourage someone to endure a specific, grueling process or period of time.
How does it change in a sentence?
To use the polite formal address, use bleiben Sie stark instead of the informal bleib stark.
Did you know?
- German has a specific noun, Durchhaltevermögen, to describe the internal capacity to 'stay strong' or persevere through a long ordeal.
- While bleib stark is for emotional support, Germans might use Kopf hoch (literally 'head up') to tell someone to stay positive during a setback.
- The English word 'stark' and the German stark share the same ancient ancestor, but they have drifted apart. While 'stark' in English describes something bare or harsh, in German it remains a compliment for being robust and powerful.
Examples in context
- Bleib stark!Stay strong.This sentence is useful for expressing the command bleib stark.Tatoeba #3624065 by al_ex_an_der, translation #5675587 by Hybrid
- Bleiben Sie stark. Ich weiß, dass Sie es schaffen können.Stay strong. I know you can do it.
- Bleib stark! Du findest jemanden, der dich wirklich schätzt.Stay strong! You'll find someone who truly appreciates you.
- Bleib stark in dieser schweren Zeit.Stay strong during this difficult time.
Example conversation
Julia is comforting Maximilian after he lost his job.
- JuliaEs tut mir so leid, Maximilian.I am so sorry, Maximilian.
- MaximilianDanke, Julia. Es ist gerade sehr hart.Thanks, Julia. It is very hard right now.
- JuliaBitte bleib stark, alles wird wieder gut.Please stay strong, everything will be fine.
- MaximilianIch werde mein Bestes versuchen.I will try my best.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries stark, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
