noun

die Ausdauer, null

endurance · perseverance

Die Fähigkeit, über längere Zeit aktiv zu bleiben und nicht schnell müde zu werden.

Definition & meaning

Ausdauer is a feminine noun that refers to the ability to sustain a physical or mental effort over a long period. In a sporting context, it translates to stamina or endurance, describing the capacity to maintain a high level of performance without fatiguing quickly. In a broader, more abstract sense, it refers to perseverance or tenacity, representing the patience and consistency required to complete a difficult task or achieve a long-term goal.

Grammar & Word origin

Ausdauer is a feminine noun (die Ausdauer). It does not have a plural form.

The word is derived from the German prefix aus- (out, to the end) and the noun Dauer (duration, persistence). Etymologically, it describes the act of "holding out" or "lasting through" an entire duration of an event or challenge. It is closely related to the verb ausdauern, though the noun is far more commonly used in daily German.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

Beharrlichkeit (persistence)
Durchhaltevermögen (staying power)
Beständigkeit (consistency)
Kondition (physical condition/stamina)
Hartnäckigkeit (tenacity)

Antonyms:

Kurzatmigkeit (literally: short-windedness; metaphorically: lacking staying power)
Sprunghaftigkeit (erraticness/inconsistency)
Unbeständigkeit (instability/fickleness)