das Ave Maria
/das ˈaːve maˈʁiːa/word by word
The English phrase 'the hail mary' is translated into German as das Ave Maria.
das Ave Maria refers to the traditional Catholic prayer addressed to the Virgin Mary. Phrases commonly found within the text of this prayer include voll der Gnade (full of grace) and jetzt und in der Stunde unseres Todes (now and at the hour of our death). The prayer concludes with the word Amen.
How do you pronounce it?
/das ˈaːve maˈʁiːa/
Did you know?
- Unlike in English where a 'Hail Mary' can refer to a desperate last-minute attempt in American football, the German das Ave Maria is strictly religious or artistic.
- The name Maria in the phrase originates from the Aramaic word Maryām, which corresponds to the Hebrew Miryām.
- When reciting the prayer in a German liturgical setting, the pronunciation of Ave Maria follows strict ecclesiastical Latin rules rather than standard German phonology.
Examples in context
- Wir beten das Ave Maria.We pray the Hail Mary.
- Sie lernte das Ave Maria auswendig.She learned the Hail Mary by heart.
- Das Ave Maria wird oft gesungen.The Hail Mary is often sung.
Example conversation
Hannah and Felix are visiting a cathedral.
- HannahSollen wir gemeinsam das Ave Maria beten?Shall we pray the Hail Mary together?
- FelixJa, das ist eine gute Idee, Hannah.Yes, that is a good idea, Hannah.
- HannahIch fange jetzt an.I will start now.
- FelixIch begleite dich, Hannah.I will join you, Hannah.
