das  Sorgenkind

B2

Estimated CEFR level.

/das ˈzɔʁɡŋ̩ˌkɪnt/

🤔 What exactly is a Sorgenkind?

Das Sorgenkind (neuter gender) refers to a person, usually a child, or sometimes a thing (e.g., a project, a business unit) that causes someone worry, trouble, or requires special effort. It is often associated with difficulties, problems, or a need for particular support.

Literally, it is composed of Sorgen (plural of Sorge = worry, concern) and Kind (child). Even though it literally means 'child', it can refer to adults or abstract things as well.

• Person: A child with health issues, difficulties at school, or noticeable behavioral problems.
• Thing/Project: A business division operating at a loss, a project constantly facing obstacles, a region with economic problems.

⚠️ The term can sometimes be perceived as stigmatizing, although it is often used with compassion or implies special care.

🧐 Grammar: Declension of 'das Sorgenkind'

The word "Sorgenkind" is a neuter noun (sächlich). Its declension is as follows:

📝 Example Sentences

1. Der jüngste Sohn war schon immer das Sorgenkind der Familie.
   (The youngest son was always the family's problem child.)
2. Der Lehrer kümmert sich besonders um die Sorgenkinder in seiner Klasse.
   (The teacher takes special care of the problem children in his class.)
3. Dieses Projekt entwickelte sich schnell zu unserem Sorgenkind.
   (This project quickly turned into our problem child/our main concern.)
4. Die wirtschaftliche Entwicklung dieser Region ist das Sorgenkind der Regierung.
   (The economic development of this region is the government's problem child/main concern.)

💡 How to use 'Sorgenkind'?

The term "Sorgenkind" is used in various contexts, often to express that someone or something requires special attention, effort, or financial resources and is a cause for concern.

• In a family context: Referring to a child (or adult child) who has problems (health, school, social).
• In a professional/economic context: For projects, products, departments, or companies that are not performing as expected or are causing losses.
• In a political/social context: For specific regions, social groups, or policy areas considered problematic.

Important Nuance: Although the term sounds negative (implying problems), it often carries a component of care, concern, or special responsibility. One worries about (sorgt sich um) the Sorgenkind.

Comparison:
Problemkind: Similar, but often more focused on behavioral problems.
Problemfall (problem case): More neutral, often used for things or abstract situations.

🧠 Mnemonics and Memory Aids

Article Aid: Think of das Kind (the child). Almost all compound German nouns ending in "-kind" are neuter. Therefore: das Sorgenkind.

Meaning Aid: Imagine a Kind (child) that constantly gives you Sorgen (worries) – whether by crying, being ill, or causing trouble. This image helps to anchor the meaning of "someone/something causing trouble or concern".

🔄 Synonyms and Antonyms

Similar, but not identical words:
Pechvogel: Someone who is often unlucky (doesn't necessarily cause worry).
Sorgenfalten: Worry lines (wrinkles on the forehead caused by worry).

😂 A Little Joke

Warum ist die Mathematik das Sorgenkind aller Fächer?

Weil sie so viele Probleme hat! 😉

(Why is mathematics the problem child of all subjects?)

(Because it has so many problems!)

📜 A Little Poem

Ein Kind, das Kummer macht und Leid,
ist oft allein in seiner Zeit.
Man nennt es schnell ein Sorgenkind,
vergisst, dass Stärken in ihm sind.

Auch Projekte, mühsam und schwer,
brauchen Zuwendung, immer mehr.
Das Sorgenkind, ob Mensch, ob Plan,
zeigt, wo man helfen, fördern kann.

(A child causing sorrow and pain,
Is often lonely in its time's domain.
Quickly labeled a 'worry child's' name,
Forgetting strengths within its frame.)

(Projects too, demanding and tough,
Need attention, more than enough.
The 'Sorgenkind', be it person or plan,
Shows where support and help began.)

🧩 Who or What Am I?

Ich kann ein Mensch sein, klein oder groß,
manchmal auch ein Projekt bloß.
Ich koste Nerven, Zeit und Geld,
bin oft das Thema in der Welt (der Familie, der Firma...).
Man kümmert sich, hat mich doch lieb,
obwohl ich manchen Kummer schrieb.

Wer oder was bin ich?

(I can be a person, small or tall,
Sometimes just a project, that is all.
I cost nerves, time, and money spent,
Often the topic, wherever folks went (in families, firms...).
People care, hold me somewhat dear,
Though I've caused many a worry and tear.)

Who or what am I?

Solution: Das Sorgenkind (the problem child / concern)

✨ Other Information

Word Composition: The word "Sorgenkind" is a compound noun, formed from:

• Die Sorge (plural: die Sorgen) - worry, concern
• Das Kind (plural: die Kinder) - child

Cultural Context: The term reflects a culture where care and responsibility (sometimes bordering on overprotection) play a significant role. Depending on the context, it can express pity, concern, but also frustration.