Leidenschaft

/laɪdɛnˈʃaft/
passion

Sie hat eine große Leidenschaft für Musik.

She has a great passion for music.


formalinformal

Strong emotion, enthusiasm, or intense interest in something

Seine Leidenschaft für Fußball ist unübersehbar.

His passion for soccer is unmistakable.

Sie widmete ihr Leben ihrer Leidenschaft für die Kunst.

She dedicated her life to her passion for art.

Can refer to romantic passion, but more commonly denotes enthusiasm for activities, hobbies, or causes.

Related Phrases

Leidenschaft brennenphrase
to burn with passion

Pro Tip

Romantic vs. Enthusiastic

While 'Leidenschaft' can describe romantic passion, it is more frequently used to express enthusiasm for activities, hobbies, or causes. Context usually clarifies the intended meaning.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

In professional or formal contexts, 'Leidenschaft' often conveys dedication and intensity, while in casual speech, it can describe a strong personal interest or hobby.

Word Origin

From Middle High German 'leidenschaft' (suffering, passion), from 'leid' (suffering) + '-schaft' (suffix forming abstract nouns). Originally referred to suffering or affliction, later evolved to mean intense emotion or enthusiasm.

Usage Notes

While 'Leidenschaft' can describe romantic passion, it is more commonly used to express deep enthusiasm for non-romantic pursuits like hobbies, professions, or causes. In formal contexts, it conveys a sense of dedication and intensity.

Word Breakdown

Leid
suffering, pain
root
+
-schaft
abstract noun suffix (similar to '-ness' in English)
suffix
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