masculinity
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masculinity
The totality of qualities, behaviors, and characteristics traditionally considered typical of a man or of the male sex.
Das traditionelle Bild von Männlichkeit hat sich in den letzten Jahrzehnten stark verändert.
The traditional image of masculinity has changed greatly in recent decades.
The word is derived from the adjective 'männlich' (male/masculine). The ending '-keit' is a typical suffix in German for forming abstract nouns from adjectives.
Die Diskussion über moderne Männlichkeit ist sehr komplex.
The discussion about modern masculinity is very complex.
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about social roles, psychology, or culture, the abstract concept is meant. In medical or very direct physical contexts, it refers to the sexual organs.
Er versucht, seine Männlichkeit durch teure Autos zu beweisen.
He tries to prove his masculinity through expensive cars.
In social discourse, 'Männlichkeit' (masculinity) is often combined with adjectives such as 'traditionell' (traditional) or 'toxisch' (toxic). A common expression is also 'seine Männlichkeit unter Beweis stellen' (to prove one's masculinity).
Der Film kritisiert das Konzept der toxischen Männlichkeit.
The film criticizes the concept of toxic masculinity.
In the meaning 'Geschlechtsorgane' (sexual organs), the word is a formal euphemism. It is used especially in medical or written contexts to treat the topic in a detached way.
Der Arzt sprach von einer Beeinträchtigung der Männlichkeit.
The doctor spoke of an impairment of his manhood.
penis
'der Penis' and 'die Männlichkeit' can both have to do with male sex organs in certain situations. 'der Penis' is the precise anatomical word for a specific organ. 'die Männlichkeit' usually means qualities or an image of what is considered typically masculine. Only sometimes is 'Männlichkeit' used as a euphemistic or older word for the male sex organs. Learners may confuse the words because 'Männlichkeit' can seem similar in this sense. In medicine, biology, or clear everyday language, 'Penis' is more precise. For behavior, gender roles, or self-image, 'Männlichkeit' fits better.
Für Tom bedeutet Männlichkeit nicht Stärke allein, sondern auch Verantwortung.
For Tom, masculinity does not mean strength alone, but also responsibility.
Der Arzt erklärt dem Patienten, warum der Penis nach der Operation noch empfindlich ist.
The doctor explains to the patient why the penis is still sensitive after the operation.