Heimweh
Nach einem Jahr im Ausland hatte er starkes Heimweh.
After a year abroad, he had severe homesickness.
A feeling of longing for one's home or homeland, often accompanied by sadness or melancholy.
Sie litt unter Heimweh, als sie ihre Familie vermisste.
She suffered from homesickness when she missed her family.
Das Heimweh wurde stärker, je länger er weg war.
The homesickness grew stronger the longer he was away.
Heimweh is a uniquely German concept that captures a deep emotional connection to one's home, often triggered by physical or emotional distance.
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Pro Tip
Cultural Nuance
Heimweh is more intense than simple homesickness in English. It often carries a sense of longing for a place that no longer exists or has changed.
Gold Rule
Usage
Heimweh is always used with 'haben' (to have), never with 'sein' (to be).
Word Origin
From 'Heim' (home) + 'Weh' (pain, ache). Literally 'home-pain', reflecting the emotional distress of being away from home.
Usage Notes
Heimweh is often used to describe a deep, almost physical ache for one's home, distinct from simple nostalgia. It can be triggered by physical distance or even emotional detachment from one's roots.