human being / child
das Menschenkind, die Menschenkinder
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human being
A person, especially with regard to their weakness and vulnerability; sometimes also a human child. The word is often used affectionately, humorously, or in poetic language.
Die alte Frau nahm das verängstigte Menschenkind liebevoll in die Arme.
The old woman lovingly took the frightened child into her arms.
| gender | neuter das |
|---|---|
| plural | die Menschenkinder |
| genitive | des Menschenkindes |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | das Menschenkind | die Menschenkinder |
| accusative | das Menschenkind | die Menschenkinder |
| dative | dem Menschenkind | den Menschenkindern |
| genitive | des Menschenkindes des Menschenkinds | der Menschenkinder |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Menschenkind' (human being / child) is made up of 'Mensch' (person) and 'Kind' (child). Despite containing 'Kind' (child), the word usually refers to a person of any age.
Auch der große Dichter war am Ende nur ein Menschenkind mit Sorgen und Ängsten.
In the end, even the great poet was only a human being with worries and fears.
'Menschenkind' (human being / child) often appears with adjectives expressing an evaluation, such as 'armes' (poor), 'kleines' (little), 'hilfloses' (helpless), or 'liebes' (dear). This makes the speaker's emotional attitude clear.
Das hilflose Menschenkind wusste nicht, wohin es gehen sollte.
The helpless child did not know where to go.
The word is especially vivid and emotional, so it works well in stories, fairy tales, or personal expressions. It can express pity, affection, or amazement.
Was für ein tapferes Menschenkind du doch bist!
What a brave child you are!
