humanity
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humanity
The quality of being humane, compassionate, and kind. It describes the positive, ethical nature of human beings and the ability to feel empathy for others.
In Zeiten der Krise zeigt sich oft die wahre Menschlichkeit.
In times of crisis, true humanity often reveals itself.
The word belongs to a word family: it is derived from the adjective 'menschlich' (human / humane), which in turn comes from 'der Mensch' (human being). The ending '-keit' is often used to form abstract nouns from adjectives.
Freundlichkeit ist eine wichtige Eigenschaft.
Kindness is an important quality.
'Menschlichkeit' (humanity) is often used with certain verbs that express an action or attitude. Typical combinations are 'Menschlichkeit zeigen' (to show humanity), 'Menschlichkeit beweisen' (to demonstrate humanity), or 'an die Menschlichkeit appellieren' (to appeal to humanity).
Der Helfer hat große Menschlichkeit bewiesen.
The helper demonstrated great humanity.
This word is usually used in an ethical, philosophical, or serious context. It describes a fundamental positive quality and is used less often in everyday, trivial situations.
In seinem Roman geht es um die Frage der Menschlichkeit im Krieg.
His novel deals with the question of humanity in war.
charity / love of neighbor
Menschlichkeit and Nächstenliebe can both express kindness and help for other people. Menschlichkeit generally describes a compassionate attitude, whereas Nächstenliebe emphasizes selfless help as an ethical or religiously shaped command. „Menschlichkeit“ fits the general attitude, while „Nächstenliebe“ fits this command.
Seine Menschlichkeit zeigte sich darin, dass er der erschöpften Nachbarin sofort half.
His humanity showed in the way he immediately helped his exhausted neighbor.
Aus Nächstenliebe half sie der fremden Frau, ihre schweren Taschen nach Hause zu tragen.
Out of charity, she helped the stranger carry her heavy bags home.
