noun

das Umdenken, –

think

The German word "Umdenken" is a noun formed from the verb "denken" (to think) combined with the prefix "um" (around, re-), so it literally means "re-thinking" or "rethinking".

  • denken = to think
  • um (prefix) = around, indicates a change or reversal

Umdenken refers to the process of changing one's mindset or way of thinking.

Similar words:

  • Meinungsänderung (change of opinion)
  • Neuausrichtung (realignment)
  • Perspektivwechsel (change of perspective)

Difference:
While Umdenken specifically emphasizes the cognitive process of fundamentally rethinking ideas, terms like Meinungsänderung focus more on the result (change of opinion), and Neuausrichtung often implies strategic or organizational change, not just mental.

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Examples

Manchmal hilft ein Umdenken bei schwierigen Entscheidungen.noun

Sometimes a change in thinking helps with difficult decisions.

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