German Phrase
Sie strahlte vor Stolz.
Meaning
This phrase describes someone expressing intense happiness and satisfaction through their facial expression. The verb 'strahlen' literally means 'to beam' or 'to radiate', suggesting a glow that comes from within. It highlights a moment of deep personal achievement or being proud of someone else's accomplishments.
When to use
Use this when describing someone's reaction to good news, a successful performance, or a significant milestone. It is particularly effective in narrative storytelling or when sharing emotional anecdotes with friends.
✦Grammar Breakdown
SiestrahltevorStolz
strahlte (Verb)
The past tense (Präteritum) of 'strahlen'. It is used here to narrate a completed action in the past.
vor (Preposition)
When used with emotions, 'vor' expresses a cause that results in a physical manifestation, like crying from joy or beaming from pride.
🗨In Conversation
Hast du gesehen, wie sie reagiert hat, als sie die Note bekam?
Did you see how she reacted when she got the grade?
Ja, sie strahlte vor Stolz.
Yes, she beamed with pride.
✕Common Mistakes
Sie strahlte mit Stolz.
In German, the preposition 'vor' is used to indicate the cause of a physical reaction to an emotion, rather than 'mit'.
Sie strahlte für Stolz.
Avoid using 'für' for emotions; 'vor' is the standard preposition for expressing being overwhelmed by a feeling.
↔Alternatives
Sie war sehr stolz.
She was very proud.
Sie war voller Stolz.
She was full of pride.
Ihr Gesicht leuchtete vor Stolz.
Her face lit up with pride.
Cultural Tip
While German culture often emphasizes modesty, 'strahlen vor Stolz' is a common and warmly accepted way to describe genuine joy. It is frequently used in family contexts, such as parents watching their children graduate or athletes winning a competition.