01
die Herkunft
origin
The social, geographical, or family origin of a person.
example
Er ist stolz auf seine italienische Herkunft.
He is proud of his Italian origin.
die Herkunft
origin
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 03
Usage tips
Word structure
'Herkunft' (origin) is made up of 'her' (indicating a direction) and 'Kunft' (an old form derived from 'kommen' (to come)). So it literally means 'where something comes from' or the origin.
EXAMPLE
Die Herkunft des Namens ist nicht eindeutig geklärt.
The origin of the name has not been clearly established.
Grammar and usage
The noun 'Herkunft' (origin) answers the question 'Woher?' (from where?). It is almost always used with the preposition 'von' (+ dative) or a genitive to name the origin.
EXAMPLE
Die genaue Herkunft von diesem alten Möbelstück ist unbekannt.
The exact origin of this old piece of furniture is unknown.
Typical adjectives
When referring to a person’s origin, 'Herkunft' (origin) is often combined with adjectives such as 'sozial' (social), 'familiär' (family-related), 'geografisch' (geographical), or nationalities, e.g. 'türkische Herkunft' (Turkish origin).
EXAMPLE
Seine soziale Herkunft hat seinen beruflichen Weg nicht beeinflusst.
His social origin did not influence his career path.
Origin of products
In connection with goods or food products, people often speak of the 'Herkunftsland' (country of origin) or the 'Herkunftsnachweis' (proof of origin). These terms are important in trade and for consumers.
EXAMPLE
Der Wein hat eine geschützte Herkunftsbezeichnung.
The wine has a protected designation of origin.
Compare with
Herkunft vs Hintergrund
background
'Hintergrund' and 'Herkunft' can both say something about a person. 'Herkunft' mainly means where someone comes from, for example which country, region, or family. 'Hintergrund' is broader: it can include origin, education, work experience, and social experiences. The words can be confused because both ask about a person's history. If it is only about origin, 'Herkunft' is more precise. If several personal experiences are important, 'Hintergrund' fits better.
Herkunft
Im Kurs sprechen die Teilnehmer über ihre Herkunft und ihre Sprachen.
In the course, the participants talk about their origin and their languages.
Hintergrund
Für die Bewerbung ist ihr beruflicher Hintergrund besonders wichtig.
Her professional background is especially important for the application.
In real life
Loading video examples...