little angel
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little angel
A small angel, often depicted as a childlike figure with wings. The term is frequently used in art, decoration, and religion.
Zu Weihnachten schmücken wir den Baum mit kleinen Engelchen aus Holz.
At Christmas, we decorate the tree with little wooden angels.
'Engelchen' (little angel) is the diminutive form of 'der Engel' (the angel). The ending '-chen' not only makes the word small and cute, but also always changes the article to 'das'.
Der große Engel aus Gips hat ein kleines Engelchen in der Hand.
The big plaster angel is holding a little angel in its hand.
You can tell from the context whether a person or a figure is meant. If a person is being addressed directly or their behavior is being described, it is the affectionate term. If it is about decoration, art, or religion, the small figure is meant.
Mein Sohn war heute ein richtiges Engelchen und hat den ganzen Tag nicht geweint.
My son was a real little angel today and didn't cry all day.
The request 'Sei ein Engelchen und ...' (Be a little angel and ...) is a very common and affectionate way to ask someone, often a child, for a small favor.
Sei ein Engelchen und bring mir bitte meine Brille.
Be a little angel and please bring me my glasses.
angel
'Engel' and 'Engelchen' are closely related. Both can mean a supernatural being or be used affectionately for a very good, kind person. 'Engelchen' is the diminutive form and sounds smaller, cuter, and often more childlike. It is especially suitable for children, decorations, or affectionate situations. 'Engel' is more neutral and can also sound more serious or religious. Learners may confuse the words because they look almost the same, but 'Engelchen' always has this cute or tender tone.
Auf der Karte ist ein kleines Engelchen mit goldenen Flügeln zu sehen.
The card shows a little angel with golden wings.
Meine Nachbarin war ein Engel, als sie mir beim Umzug geholfen hat.
My neighbor was an angel when she helped me move.