01
der Sonnenschein
sunshine
The direct, bright light of the sun.
example
Lass uns den Sonnenschein nutzen und im Park spazieren gehen.
Let's make use of the sunshine and go for a walk in the park.
der Sonnenschein
sunshine
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word composition
The word is a clear compound of 'die Sonne' (the sun) and 'der Schein' (shine/glow). So it literally describes the glow or shining of the sun.
EXAMPLE
Der erste Sonnenschein nach dem langen Winter fühlte sich wunderbar an.
The first sunshine after the long winter felt wonderful.
Typical collocations
Common expressions are 'bei Sonnenschein' (in sunny weather) to describe the weather and 'den Sonnenschein genießen' (to enjoy the sunshine) to describe the activity.
EXAMPLE
Bei Sonnenschein machen wir immer einen Ausflug.
When it's sunny, we always go on an outing.
Figurative meaning
When a person is called 'Sonnenschein' (sunshine), it is a compliment about their cheerful and positive presence. It is often used as an affectionate form of address or description.
EXAMPLE
Unsere Oma ist ein echter Sonnenschein, sie lacht immer.
Our grandma is a real ray of sunshine; she is always laughing.
Compare with
Sonnenschein vs Sonne
sun
'die Sonne' and 'der Sonnenschein' can both be connected with bright light and a good mood. 'die Sonne' can mean the celestial body itself or its light and warmth. 'der Sonnenschein' more specifically means the bright light of the sun, not the celestial body. That is why you say 'Die Sonne scheint' (the sun is shining), but 'Im Sonnenschein ist es warm' (it is warm in the sunshine). The words can be confused because both occur in weather situations. If you mean the star in the sky, use 'die Sonne'. If you mean the light, 'der Sonnenschein' is often more precise. Figuratively, 'Sonnenschein' can also mean a very cheerful person.
Sonnenschein
Am Nachmittag sitzen die Freunde im Sonnenschein vor der Küche.
In the afternoon, the friends sit in the sunshine in front of the kitchen.
Sonne
Nach der Arbeit blendet ihn die Sonne auf dem Weg nach Hause.
After work, the sun dazzles him on his way home.
In real life
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