life stage
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life stage
A specific, defined period in a person's life that is characterized by special events, developments, or circumstances. Examples include childhood, adolescence, time at university, or working life.
Mit dem Eintritt in den Ruhestand begann für sie ein völlig neuer Lebensabschnitt.
When she entered retirement, a completely new life stage began for her.
The word consists of 'Leben' (life), the linking element '-s-', and 'Abschnitt' (section/period). So it literally means a 'section of life,' which makes the meaning very transparent.
Die Kindheit ist für viele Menschen der schönste Lebensabschnitt.
For many people, childhood is the most beautiful life stage.
The word is often combined with adjectives such as 'neu' (new), 'wichtig' (important), 'schwierig' (difficult), or 'entscheidend' (decisive). Typical verbs are 'beginnen' (to begin) and 'enden' (to end).
Mit der Geburt ihres ersten Kindes begann ein aufregender neuer Lebensabschnitt.
With the birth of her first child, an exciting new life stage began.
To describe a position within a life stage, prepositions such as 'in' (in) or 'am Anfang/Ende von' (at the beginning/end of) are often used.
Er steht am Ende seines beruflichen Lebensabschnitts und freut sich auf die Rente.
He is at the end of his professional life stage and is looking forward to retirement.
phase
'die Phase' and 'der Lebensabschnitt' both refer to a limited period of time with special characteristics. 'Phase' is more general and can fit many developments or processes, for example in a project, in an illness, or in learning. A 'Lebensabschnitt' always refers to a person's life and is often longer, for example childhood, time at university, or working life. Learners may confuse the words when talking about personal development. If you are talking generally about a process, 'Phase' fits better; if you mean an important period in life, 'Lebensabschnitt' is more precise.
Das Studium war für Maria ein wichtiger Lebensabschnitt.
University was an important life stage for Maria.
Nach dem Umzug beginnt für das Team eine schwierige Phase.
After the move, a difficult phase begins for the team.