01
die Tätigkeit
occupation
The work or profession that a person does. Often refers to the entirety of the tasks in a job.
example
Nach dem Studium nahm er eine Tätigkeit als Lehrer auf.
After his studies, he took up a position as a teacher.
die Tätigkeit
activity / occupation
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Word structure
The word derives from the adjective 'tätig' (active, working). The ending '-keit' is a typical ending used to form feminine nouns from adjectives.
EXAMPLE
Er ist als freiberuflicher Autor tätig.
He works as a freelance author.
Register and style
In the meaning of 'Beruf' (profession) or 'Job' (job), 'Tätigkeit' (occupation/activity) is often used in formal or official contexts, for example in applications, CVs, or employment contracts.
EXAMPLE
Bitte beschreiben Sie Ihre bisherige berufliche Tätigkeit.
Please describe your previous professional activity.
Typical collocations
When referring to a profession, 'Tätigkeit' (occupation/activity) is often combined with the verbs 'aufnehmen' (to take up), 'ausüben' (to practice/carry out), or 'nachgehen' (to pursue).
EXAMPLE
Sie hat nach ihrem Abschluss eine Tätigkeit bei einer internationalen Organisation aufgenommen.
After graduating, she took up a position at an international organization.
Typical adjectives
When a single activity is meant, the word is often combined with adjectives such as 'körperlich' (physical), 'geistig' (mental), 'ehrenamtlich' (voluntary), or 'kreativ' (creative).
EXAMPLE
Regelmäßige körperliche Tätigkeit ist gut für die Gesundheit.
Regular physical activity is good for your health.
Compare with
Tätigkeit vs Arbeit
work
'die Arbeit' and 'die Tätigkeit' can both describe what someone does. 'Arbeit' sounds more natural in everyday language, especially when talking about a job or a task that needs to be done. 'Tätigkeit' is more neutral and somewhat more formal. It often describes the type of tasks in a profession, or also a single activity. Learners may confuse the words because they are similar in many professional contexts. In conversation, people usually say 'Arbeit'; in applications, reports, or official texts, 'Tätigkeit' often sounds more appropriate.
Tätigkeit
Die Tätigkeit im Büro ist abwechslungsreich, weil jeden Tag andere Aufgaben kommen.
The work in the office is varied because different tasks come up every day.
Arbeit
Am Montag beginnt seine neue Arbeit in einer kleinen Werkstatt.
On Monday, he starts his new job in a small workshop.
In real life
Loading video examples...