das Selbst, -e
self
The German word "Selbst" is a noun that means "self" or "oneself." It refers to an individual's own identity or essence. The term is often used in expressions to denote emphasis on the subject, such as "selbstverständlich" (as a matter of course) or "selbstbewusst" (self-confident).
Words with similar meanings in German include "Eigenheit" (specific quality or characteristic), "Ich" (I or ego), and "Selbstbewusstsein" (self-awareness or self-confidence).
The difference between "Selbst" and these similar words is primarily one of emphasis or specificity. While "Selbst" focuses on the individual's essence or identity, words like "Ich" are more about the subjective pronoun representing the individual. "Eigenheit" refers to personal characteristics, and "Selbstbewusstsein" relates to awareness and confidence in oneself.
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Examples
Manchmal spricht das Selbst zu uns.noun
Sometimes the self speaks to us.
Unser Selbst verändert sich im Laufe der Zeit.noun
Our self changes over time.
Jeder Mensch sucht sein wahres Selbst.noun
Every human being seeks their true self.
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