das Bärchen
little bear
A small bear; often also a small stuffed or toy bear.
EXAMPLE
Das Bärchen sitzt seit Jahren auf meinem Bett.
The little bear has been sitting on my bed for years.
das Bärchen
little bear
das Bärchen, die Bärchen
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Meanings
das Bärchen
little bear
An affectionate or diminutive name for a person, especially a child or someone close to you.
EXAMPLE
Komm her, mein Bärchen, ich will dich trösten.
Come here, my little bear. I want to comfort you.
Forms
At a glance
| gender | neuter das |
|---|---|
| plural | die Bärchen |
| genitive | des Bärchens |
The four cases
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | das Bärchen | die Bärchen |
| accusative | das Bärchen | die Bärchen |
| dative | dem Bärchen | den Bärchen |
| genitive | des Bärchens | der Bärchen |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
Usage tips
Diminutive form
'Bärchen' (little bear) consists of 'Bär' (bear) and the suffix '-chen'. This suffix indicates something small, but it can also express affection.
EXAMPLE
Auf dem Bild sieht man eine Bärenmutter mit ihrem kleinen Bärchen.
The picture shows a mother bear with her little bear.
Gute Nacht, mein Bärchen!
Good night, my little bear!
Typical collocations
For 'Bärchen' (little bear) as a stuffed toy, typical phrases include 'mit einem Bärchen kuscheln' (to cuddle a little bear) and 'ein Bärchen im Arm halten' (to hold a little bear in one's arms). These phrases also help you recognize the toy meaning in a text.
EXAMPLE
Das Mädchen hielt sein Bärchen im Arm und schlief langsam ein.
The girl held her little bear in her arms and slowly fell asleep.
Personal form of address
As a term of endearment, 'Bärchen' (little bear) is often used with 'mein' (my) when addressing someone directly. This usage belongs in close, private relationships and may seem too personal when used with strangers.
EXAMPLE
Hast du gut geschlafen, mein Bärchen?
Did you sleep well, my little bear?
In real life
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