01
die Karriere
career
A person's professional path, characterized by various positions, achievements, and development.
example
Sie hat eine beeindruckende Karriere in der IT-Branche gemacht.
She has had an impressive career in the IT industry.
die Karriere
career
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Fixed expression
The most common and important combination is the fixed expression 'Karriere machen' (to make a career). It means to be very successful professionally and rise quickly.
EXAMPLE
Viele junge Leute wollen heute nicht mehr um jeden Preis Karriere machen.
Many young people today no longer want to make a career at any cost.
Correct preposition
To name the professional field, you use 'in' with the dative. To describe the specific role, you use 'als' (as).
EXAMPLE
Er macht Karriere in der Finanzbranche.
He is building a career in the finance industry.
Typical verbs
In addition to 'machen' (to make/do), 'Karriere' (career) is often combined with verbs such as 'beginnen' (to begin), 'starten' (to start), 'verfolgen' (to pursue), or 'beenden' (to end).
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Studium möchte sie ihre Karriere im Ausland starten.
After her studies, she would like to start her career abroad.
Compound words
'Karriere' (career) is often the first part of compound nouns that refer to one's professional path, such as 'Karrierechance' (career opportunity), 'Karriereplan' (career plan), or 'Karrieresprung' (career leap).
EXAMPLE
Diese neue Stelle ist eine große Karrierechance für mich.
This new position is a great career opportunity for me.
Compare with
Karriere vs Beruf
profession / occupation
'Karriere' and 'Beruf' both have to do with work, but they do not mean the same thing. A 'Beruf' is the activity someone has trained for or regularly does, for example doctor, cook, or mechanic. 'Karriere' describes a person's professional path, with development, achievements, and possible higher positions. So you can have the same profession, but have a very different career. Learners often confuse the words because both are important in working life. For the question 'Was arbeitest du?' (What do you do for work?), 'Beruf' fits. For the path and success in working life, 'Karriere' fits.
Karriere
Nach dem Studium möchte Sofia eine Karriere im Krankenhaus beginnen.
After her studies, Sofia wants to begin a career in a hospital.
Beruf
Mein Freund ist Elektriker von Beruf.
My friend is an electrician by profession.
In real life
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