self-understanding
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self-understanding
The way a person, group, or institution sees itself and perceives and defines its own identity, role, and values.
Das Selbstverständnis des Unternehmens als Technologieführer prägt alle Entscheidungen.
The company's self-understanding as a technology leader shapes all decisions.
The word is a compound of 'Selbst' (self) and 'Verständnis' (understanding). So it literally describes the 'understanding of oneself'—that is, how a person or group sees itself and defines its role.
Ein positives Selbstverständnis ist wichtig für die persönliche Entwicklung.
A positive self-understanding is important for personal development.
Often, it is specified whose self-understanding is meant. This is usually done with the genitive or a 'von' (of/from) construction. The construction with 'als' (as) is also typical for naming a role.
Das Selbstverständnis der Firma als Familienunternehmen ist überall spürbar.
The company's self-understanding as a family business is noticeable everywhere.
'Selbstverständnis' (self-understanding) is a rather formal and abstract word. It is often found in texts from fields such as psychology, sociology, business, or politics.
In der Debatte ging es um das nationale Selbstverständnis.
The debate was about national self-understanding.
identity
'die Identität' and 'das Selbstverständnis' can both describe who someone is or what a group stands for. 'Die Identität' is more general: it includes the characteristics that define a person, group, or thing and distinguish it from others. 'Das Selbstverständnis' emphasizes how someone sees themselves and which role or values they consider important for themselves. They can be confused when talking about groups or people. 'Identität' is more natural when talking about the whole essence, while 'Selbstverständnis' is better when the focus is on one's own view of oneself.
Im Team gehört Hilfe für neue Kollegen zu unserem Selbstverständnis.
In our team, helping new colleagues is part of our self-understanding.
Die Stadt hat durch ihre alte Musiktradition eine starke Identität.
The city has a strong identity because of its old musical tradition.