01
der Sohnemann
sonny boy
A colloquial, often affectionate or slightly joking term for one's own son.
example
Am Wochenende kommt der Sohnemann mal wieder zu Besuch.
This weekend, the sonny boy is coming to visit again.
der Sohnemann
sonny boy
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of 'Sohn' (son) and the ending '-mann' (man). Here, this ending is not used to refer to a man, but functions as a colloquial, familiar intensifier.
EXAMPLE
Na, wie geht es dem Sohnemann in der neuen Wohnung?
So, how is the sonny boy doing in the new apartment?
Register and style
'Sohnemann' (sonny boy) is used almost exclusively by parents or close relatives. The tone is informal and, depending on the situation, can be affectionate, proud, or even slightly ironic.
EXAMPLE
Mein Sohnemann hat schon wieder sein Zimmer nicht aufgeräumt.
My sonny boy still hasn't tidied up his room again.
Use of the article
Typically, the word is used with the definite article 'der' (the), even when talking about one's own son. This emphasizes the familiar and slightly detached, humorous character.
EXAMPLE
Heute koche ich das Lieblingsessen für den Sohnemann.
Today I'm cooking the favorite meal for the sonny boy.
Compare with
Sohnemann vs Sohn
son
'der Sohn' and 'der Sohnemann' both mean a male child in relation to his parents. 'der Sohn' is the normal and neutral word. It fits in almost all situations, including official or factual conversations. 'der Sohnemann' is colloquial and often sounds affectionate or slightly joking. It is used more in private conversations, especially about one's own son. Learners may confuse the words because they refer to the same person. The difference is mainly in tone: 'Sohn' is neutral, while 'Sohnemann' is more personal and casual.
Sohnemann
Mein Kollege holt heute seinen Sohnemann früher aus der Schule ab.
My colleague is picking up his son from school earlier today.
Sohn
Der Sohn meiner Nachbarin studiert seit diesem Herbst in Köln.
My neighbor's son has been studying in Cologne since this fall.
In real life
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