Why do I need to know die Schadenfreude ?
The feeling might be hard to admit because it is brutally honest, but the word might just help you name this strange sentiment: the slight joy you feel when you see someone else’s misfortune - usually someone you don't really like.
What does it mean?
Schadenfreude, which sounds like this, has no exact equivalent in the English language. Linguee describes the translation as "gloating" and "malicious joy". But that doesn't quite capture the feeling. That might explain why Schadenfreude - the German word itself - is often used by speakers of other languages, including English.
The word first appeared around the 18th century in Germany. It's made up of the words “Schaden”, meaning damage or harm, and “Freude”, meaning joy or happiness. From this, “Schadenfreude” could literally be translated to “joy in the face of misfortune”.
The use of these two terms highlights the paradoxical nature of this emotion.
But what exactly is Schadenfreude? And how does the feeling manifest itself? Well, it’s safe to say that everyone has experienced a moment of satisfaction when you see a person you don't like - or even someone you view as an enemy - being inconvenienced by something.
For example, if an unfriendly customer spills his cup of coffee on his shirt, when a colleague who loves to lecture everybody is slapped with a fine for parking in the wrong spot, or when you're happy that a rival sports team has lost a game - these could all be moments when you experience Schadenfreude.
READ ALSO: 8 German words that are impossible to translate into English
According to the American psychologist Richard Smith, author of The Joy of Pain: Schadenfreude And The Dark Side Of Human Nature, Schadenfreude can also occur in these situations:
- When other people’s misfortunes can directly benefit us, like when your mother-in-law misses her train and you don’t have to have lunch with her anymore
- When we are jealous of other people, like when your neighbour damages his new luxury car
- When you feel like someone else deserves their misfortune and “Schadenfreude” brings you a sense of justice
It's interesting to note that Schadenfreude affects everyone, including young children and babies, showing that it's a very human emotion.
Recently, the opposite word was discussed as a possible entry into the German language. Those who actually derive joy at, well, the joy of others can smile at this made-up German word - “Freudensfreude”.
READ ALSO: Freudenfreude: Why we should all embrace this made up word
How to use it:
Er hatte Schadenfreude, nachdem die deutsche Nationalmannschaft das Spiel verloren hatte.
He felt glee after the German national team lost the game.
Hör auf zu lachen, das ist gemein! Das ist total Schadenfreude.
Stop laughing, that's mean! That is pure Schadenfreude.
Du bist schadenfroh.
You are gloating/have Schadenfreude.
Comments