das Selbstbewusstsein
self-confidence, self-assurance
Advanced Noun Neuter
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Pronunciation
/ˈzɛlpstbəˌvʊstˌzaɪ̯n/
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Cultural Note
Selbstbewusstsein literally means 'self-consciousness' but in German it means the positive 'self-confidence' — the opposite of its English cognate. This is a major false friend. The adjective 'selbstbewusst' means 'self-assured,' not 'self-conscious.'
📝 Example Sentences
Sie hat ein starkes Selbstbewusstsein.
She has strong self-confidence.
Dein Selbstbewusstsein ist ansteckend.
Your self-confidence is contagious.
Mangelndes Selbstbewusstsein kann man überwinden.
Lacking self-confidence can be overcome.