leben

Definition & meaning

The German verb leben has several nuances depending on the context:

1. To be alive / To exist: This refers to the biological state of being a living organism, as opposed to being dead or inanimate. It is the fundamental state of existence for humans, animals, and plants.
2. To dwell / To reside: This refers to the place where one makes their home. In this context, it is synonymous with living in a specific house, city, or country.
3. To live one's life: This refers to the manner or quality of one's lifestyle, such as living healthily, living modestly, or living to the fullest.
4. To be current: In a figurative sense, it can mean that a custom, tradition, or idea is still practiced or relevant today.

Grammar & Word origin

• Grammar: The word leben is a regular weak verb. As an intransitive verb, it is conjugated with the auxiliary verb haben in the perfect tense (ich habe gelebt).
• Word origin: The word stems from the Old High German lebēn. It is etymologically related to the English word "live" and the Old English libban. It shares roots with the concept of remaining or being left in a state of existence.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

• existieren↗: To exist.
• wohnen↗: To reside or dwell in a specific place.
• hausen↗: To live (often used for living in a simple or confined space).
• aufblühen↗: To thrive or flourish.

Antonyms:

• sterben↗: To die.
• vergehen↗: To perish or pass away.
• erlöschen↗: To become extinct or go out (like a flame).