The totality of all economic relationships and activities at a global level, connecting the economies of individual countries with one another.
example
Die Pandemie hatte tiefgreifende Auswirkungen auf die gesamte Weltwirtschaft.
The pandemic had profound effects on the entire world economy.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is a simple and clear compound made up of 'die Welt' (the world) and 'die Wirtschaft' (the economy). It therefore refers to the totality of economic activities around the world.
EXAMPLE
Technologische Innovationen verbinden die Weltwirtschaft immer enger.
Technological innovations are linking the world economy ever more closely.
Use in the singular
Since there is only one global economic system, 'Weltwirtschaft' (world economy) is used almost exclusively in the singular and with the definite article 'die'.
EXAMPLE
Die Finanzkrise von 2008 hat die Weltwirtschaft schwer getroffen.
The financial crisis of 2008 hit the world economy hard.
Typical collocations
Common verbs in connection with the world economy are 'ankurbeln' (to stimulate), 'stärken' (to strengthen), or 'belasten' (to burden/put a strain on). It is also often combined with adjectives like 'global' (global) or 'gesamte' (entire).
EXAMPLE
Die Regierungen versuchen, die Weltwirtschaft wieder anzukurbeln.
The governments are trying to stimulate the world economy again.
Register
This word belongs to written language and is used mainly in news, political discussions, and specialist texts about economics. It is less common in everyday colloquial speech.
EXAMPLE
Der Ökonom schrieb einen Artikel über die Zukunft der Weltwirtschaft.
The economist wrote an article about the future of the world economy.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Weltwirtschaft vs Wirtschaft
economy / pub
'die Wirtschaft' and 'die Weltwirtschaft' both talk about production, trade, work, and money within a larger system. 'Wirtschaft' is more general and can mean the economy of a country, a region, or a sector. 'Weltwirtschaft' is more specific: it refers to economic relationships across the whole world. Learners may confuse the words because 'Weltwirtschaft' is made up of 'Welt' and 'Wirtschaft'. If you are only talking about Germany, a city, or an industry, 'Wirtschaft' fits. If many countries and global connections are meant, 'Weltwirtschaft' is the right choice.
Weltwirtschaft
Für den Vortrag liest Mehmet einen Artikel über die Weltwirtschaft.
For the presentation, Mehmet is reading an article about the world economy.
Wirtschaft
Die Wirtschaft in der Region wächst langsam wieder.
The economy in the region is slowly growing again.