die  Selbstverteidigung

B2

Estimated CEFR level.

/zɛlpstfɛɐ̯taɪˈdɪɡʊŋ/

🛡️ What exactly does Selbstverteidigung mean?

Die Selbstverteidigung means self-defense. It refers to the act of defending oneself or another person against an immediate, unlawful attack. The goal is to protect one's own physical integrity, freedom, or honor (or that of another person, known as Nothilfe - defense of others).

The term encompasses both physical techniques (as in martial arts) and preventive measures, as well as knowledge of the legal framework (Notwehrparagraph - self-defense law).

There is only one article: die. The word is feminine.

Article rules for der, die, and das

🧐 Grammar in Detail: Die Selbstverteidigung

The noun „Selbstverteidigung“ is feminine. Therefore, the correct article is always die.

It is mostly used in the singular. A plural form („die Selbstverteidigungen“) is grammatically possible but very uncommon. It might refer to different types or instances of self-defense.

Declension (Singular)

Example Sentences

1. Sie besuchte einen Kurs zur Selbstverteidigung.
   (She attended a course for self-defense.)
2. Die Notwehr ist ein wichtiger Aspekt der Selbstverteidigung im juristischen Sinne.
   (Necessity/self-defense is an important aspect of self-defense in the legal sense.)
3. Effektive Selbstverteidigung beginnt oft mit der Vermeidung gefährlicher Situationen.
   (Effective self-defense often begins with avoiding dangerous situations.)

💬 How is Selbstverteidigung used?

The term die Selbstverteidigung is used in various contexts:

• Everyday language: When talking about personal safety or how to protect oneself in a threatening situation.
• Sports & Leisure: In connection with martial arts or specific courses (e.g., Krav Maga, Judo for self-defense).
• Law: In a legal context, it refers to the right of self-defense (Notwehr, § 32 StGB in Germany).
• Psychology: Sometimes used metaphorically for psychological defense mechanisms.

It's important to distinguish between preventive Selbstbehauptung (assertiveness, setting boundaries) and reactive Selbstverteidigung (defending against an attack).

🧠 Mnemonics and Memory Aids

For the article 'die': Think of related feminine German words: die Abwehr (the defense), die Verteidigung (the defense/protection), die Sicherheit (the security) – all feminine and closely related to Selbstverteidigung.

For the meaning: Imagine defending yourself. The word is a compound: Selbst (self) + Verteidigung (defense). Quite logical!

🔁 Similar and Opposite Terms

⚠️ Caution: Selbstbehauptung (assertiveness) is not the same as Selbstverteidigung, although often mentioned in the same context. Assertiveness is mostly verbal and preventive, while self-defense is the physical reaction to an attack.

😂 A Little Joke

Fragt der Selbstverteidigungslehrer: "Was ist der erste Schritt zur Selbstverteidigung?" Schüler: "Hoffen, dass man sie nie braucht?"

(The self-defense teacher asks: "What is the first step in self-defense?" Student: "Hoping you never need it?")

📜 A Short Poem

Wenn Gefahr dir droht im Dunkeln,
Lass nicht nur die Sterne funkeln.
Die Selbstverteidigung, schnell und klar,
Schützt dich vor dem, was einst war Gefahr.
Mit Mut und Technik, klug und flink,
Bleibst du Herr der Lage, das ist der Clou, denk!

(When danger threatens you in the dark,
Don't just let the stars spark.
Self-defense, quick and clear,
Protects you from what once was fear.
With courage and technique, clever and quick,
Stay in control, that's the trick, think!)

🧩 Little Riddle

Ich bin dein Recht, wenn Not entsteht,
Ein Schutzschild, das dem Angriff widersteht.
Man lernt mich oft in einem Kurs,
Damit man sicher ist auf seinem Kurs.

Was bin ich? (Lösung: die Selbstverteidigung)

(I am your right when need arises,
A shield that withstands the attack's surprises.
You often learn me in a class,
So you are safe on your path, alas.

What am I?
Answer: self-defense / die Selbstverteidigung)

💡 Other Interesting Facts

Word Composition:

The word "Selbstverteidigung" is a compound noun, formed from:

• Selbst- (Prefix, referring to oneself)
• die Verteidigung (Noun, meaning 'defense', derived from the verb 'verteidigen' - to defend)

It literally means 'defense of oneself'.

Cultural Context: Selbstverteidigungskurse (self-defense courses) have become popular in Germany and other countries to enhance feelings of safety, especially among women and vulnerable groups.