der Oberschenkel
thigh
The part of a human or animal leg located between the knee and the hip.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Fußballtraining hatte er einen Krampf im Oberschenkel.
After soccer practice, he had a cramp in his thigh.
der Oberschenkel
thigh
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'Ober-' and 'Schenkel' (thigh). The prefix 'Ober-' means 'upper part' and makes clear that it refers to the upper section of the leg.
EXAMPLE
Der Oberschenkel hat die stärksten Muskeln im menschlichen Körper.
The thigh has the strongest muscles in the human body.
Word family
The prefix 'Ober-' is often used to name the upper part of body parts. You can also find this pattern in other words, such as 'Oberarm' (upper arm).
EXAMPLE
Beim Sport hat er sich den Oberschenkel und den Oberarm gezerrt.
While doing sports, he strained his thigh and his upper arm.
Correct preposition
Pay attention to the preposition: you say 'im Oberschenkel' (in the thigh) for pain or muscles inside, e.g. sore muscles. You say 'am Oberschenkel' (on the thigh) for something on the surface, e.g. a bruise.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe einen starken Schmerz im Oberschenkel.
I have a strong pain in my thigh.
Compare with
Oberschenkel vs Schenkel
thigh / leg / side
Oberschenkel and Schenkel can both refer to the area between the hip and the knee. Oberschenkel clearly identifies this part of the body and is the usual precise term, while Schenkel can also refer to other parts or have other meanings depending on the context. In a clear description of the human body, Oberschenkel is therefore usually more suitable.
Oberschenkel
Nach dem Sturz tat ihr der linke Oberschenkel weh.
Her left thigh hurt after the fall.
Schenkel
Nach dem Sturz tat ihr der linke Schenkel weh.
Her left thigh hurt after the fall.
In real life
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