01
beruflich
professional / work-related
Relating to one's profession, work, or career.
example
Aus beruflichen Gründen muss ich nächste Woche nach Berlin reisen.
For work-related reasons, I have to travel to Berlin next week.
beruflich
professional / work-related
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is derived from 'der Beruf' (profession/job). The ending '-lich' turns the noun into an adjective meaning 'concerning one's profession' or 'in relation to one's job.'
EXAMPLE
Meine berufliche Situation hat sich verbessert.
My professional situation has improved.
Adverbial use
'Beruflich' (professionally / for work) is very often used like an adverb to describe that an action takes place in the context of work. It answers the question 'Why?' or 'In what capacity?'.
EXAMPLE
Ich bin nächste Woche beruflich in Frankfurt.
I'll be in Frankfurt for work next week.
Typical collocations
Common fixed phrases are 'aus beruflichen Gründen' (for work-related reasons), 'beruflich erfolgreich sein' (to be professionally successful), or 'beruflich unterwegs sein' (to be traveling for work). It is also often used in combinations like 'berufliche Erfahrung' (professional experience) or 'berufliche Zukunft' (professional future).
EXAMPLE
Er ist oft beruflich unterwegs und reist viel.
He is often traveling for work and travels a lot.
Compare with
beruflich vs privat
private
'privat' and 'beruflich' often describe two different areas of life. 'privat' means personal life, for example family, friends, or home. It can also mean that someone is not acting in their official role. 'beruflich' refers to work, one's profession, or career. Learners may confuse the words because both often appear with appointments, trips, contacts, or conversations. The simple guide is: If it is about work, 'beruflich' fits. If it is about one's own personal life, 'privat' fits.
beruflich
Ich bin nächste Woche beruflich in Hamburg.
I'll be in Hamburg for work next week.
privat
Meine private Telefonnummer gebe ich nicht an Kunden weiter.
I don't give my private phone number to customers.
In real life
Loading video examples...