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German Phrase

Umarmungen sind für enge Freunde.

/ʊmˈʔaʁmʊŋən zɪnt fyːɐ̯ ˈɛŋə ˈfʁɔʏndə/
Meaning"Hugs are for close friends."
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Meaning

This phrase describes a common social boundary in German-speaking cultures regarding physical affection. It conveys that hugging is generally reserved for individuals with whom one shares a deep or long-standing emotional connection. It serves as a helpful guideline for understanding interpersonal distance in Central Europe.

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When to use

Use this phrase when discussing social norms, explaining personal boundaries, or teaching someone about cultural etiquette in Germany. It is particularly relevant when clarifying why a handshake might be preferred over a hug in certain situations.

✦Grammar Breakdown

UmarmungensindfürengeFreunde

1

Plural Nouns

'Umarmungen' is the plural form of 'die Umarmung'. In German, most nouns ending in '-ung' become plural by adding '-en'.

2

Preposition 'für'

The preposition 'für' always triggers the accusative case. Here, 'enge Freunde' is in the accusative plural form.

3

Adjective Ending

The adjective 'enge' (close) takes the '-e' ending here because it precedes a plural noun in the accusative case without a definite article.

🗨In Conversation

A

Soll ich ihn zur Begrüßung umarmen?

Should I hug him as a greeting?

Nein, Umarmungen sind für enge Freunde.

No, hugs are for close friends.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Umarmungen ist für enge Freunde.

    The subject 'Umarmungen' is plural, so the verb must be 'sind' (are) instead of 'ist' (is).

  • Umarmungen sind zu enge Freunde.

    Use the preposition 'für' to indicate who something is intended for; 'zu' is incorrect in this context.

↔Alternatives

  • Wir umarmen uns nur unter guten Freunden.

    We only hug among good friends.

  • Ich umarme nur Leute, die ich gut kenne.

    I only hug people I know well.

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Cultural Tip

In Germany, people tend to value their personal space more than in some Southern European or Latin American cultures. While younger generations are becoming more casual, a handshake remains the standard greeting for new acquaintances. Hugging someone you've just met can occasionally be perceived as overstepping a social boundary.