das Gewissen, –
conscience
Inneres Gefühl, das einem sagt, ob etwas richtig oder falsch ist.
The German word "Gewissen" is a noun meaning "conscience"—the inner sense of right and wrong that guides a person's behavior. It comes from the verb "wissen" meaning "to know", so "Gewissen" literally relates to "knowing" or having an awareness within.
Similar words:
- Moralbewusstsein (moral awareness)
- Ethik (ethics)
- Verantwortungsgefühl (sense of responsibility)
Differences:
- Gewissen specifically refers to the internal moral compass or feeling of guilt.
- Moralbewusstsein is broader, encompassing general awareness of morality.
- Ethik refers more to the study or system of morals than the personal feeling.
- Verantwortungsgefühl focuses on the feeling of responsibility, not necessarily moral judgment.
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Examples
Das Gewissen spielt eine wichtige Rolle bei Entscheidungen.noun
Conscience plays an important role in decisions.
Ein reines Gewissen ist ein sanftes Ruhekissen.noun
A clear conscience is a soft pillow.
Sein Gewissen plagt ihn nach dem Vorfall.noun
His conscience bothers him after the incident.
Verschiedene Kulturen haben unterschiedliche Auffassungen von Gewissen.noun
Different cultures have different conceptions of conscience.
Sein Gewissen mahnt ihn zur Ehrlichkeit.noun
His conscience urges him to be honest.
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