01
die Unsterblichkeit
immortality
The state of living forever and never dying.
example
In vielen Mythen suchen die Helden nach der Unsterblichkeit.
In many myths, heroes search for immortality.
die Unsterblichkeit
immortality
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
01 / 02
Usage tips
Word structure
'Unsterblichkeit' (immortality) is made up of three parts: the prefix 'un-' (not), the stem 'sterb-' (from 'sterben' (to die)), and the endings '-lich' and '-keit', which form a noun. So it describes the state of not being mortal.
EXAMPLE
Die Alchemisten träumten davon, den Schlüssel zur Unsterblichkeit zu finden.
The alchemists dreamed of finding the key to immortality.
Use in a sentence
As an abstract noun, 'Unsterblichkeit' (immortality) is usually used in the singular and often without an article when referring to the general concept. The article is used when a specific kind is meant, e.g. 'die Unsterblichkeit der Seele' (the immortality of the soul).
EXAMPLE
Viele Menschen glauben an eine Form von Unsterblichkeit nach dem Tod.
Many people believe in a form of immortality after death.
Typical verbs
In the literal sense of eternal life, 'Unsterblichkeit' (immortality) is often combined with verbs such as 'erlangen' (to attain), 'suchen' (to seek), or 'verleihen' (to grant).
EXAMPLE
Der Legende nach verleiht der Göttertrank Unsterblichkeit.
According to legend, the drink of the gods grants immortality.
Context clue
The figurative meaning 'eternal fame' can be recognized from context. When it is about artists, scientists, their works, or great deeds, it usually means fame, not eternal life.
EXAMPLE
Durch ihre Entdeckungen hat sich die Forscherin Unsterblichkeit gesichert.
Through her discoveries, the researcher secured immortality for herself.
Compare with
Unsterblichkeit vs Ewigkeit
eternity
'die Ewigkeit' and 'die Unsterblichkeit' both have to do with something that does not end. 'Ewigkeit' mainly describes a time or duration without end. 'Unsterblichkeit', on the other hand, describes a state: someone lives forever or is remembered after death through fame. Learners may confuse the words because both sound connected to 'ewig' (eternal). The simple rule is: 'Ewigkeit' is endless time; 'Unsterblichkeit' is eternal life or a person's lasting fame.
Unsterblichkeit
In vielen alten Geschichten suchen Könige nach Unsterblichkeit.
In many old stories, kings search for immortality.
Ewigkeit
Für das Kind dauerte der Arztbesuch eine Ewigkeit.
For the child, the doctor's visit lasted an eternity.
In real life
Loading video examples...