die Torschlusspanik
fear of diminishing opportunities, panic that time is running out
Advanced Noun Feminine
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Pronunciation
/ˈtoːɐ̯.ʃlʊs.pa.niːk/
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Cultural Note
Literally 'gate-closing panic,' this word originates from the medieval fear of being locked outside the city gates at nightfall. Today it's most commonly used to describe the anxiety about finding a partner or having children before it's 'too late.' It's a widely discussed concept in German relationship culture.
📝 Example Sentences
Mit 35 bekam sie Torschlusspanik und suchte verzweifelt einen Partner.
At 35, she got Torschlusspanik and desperately searched for a partner.
Torschlusspanik führt selten zu guten Entscheidungen.
Fear of time running out rarely leads to good decisions.