21 December 2025
How do you say “hardworking” and “lazy” in German?
In the German language, people who work tirelessly and purposefully are described as being fleißig (much more rarely arbeitsam or emsig), whereas those averse to working, moving, or making an effort are labeled faul (which also means “rotten”).
The corresponding nouns are Fleiß for “industriousness” or “studiousness” and Faulheit for “laziness” or “idleness”.
Examples
Dein Sohn ist ein sehr fleißiger Schüler. Your son is a very hardworking/studious student.
Ohne Fleiß kein Preis. No pain, no gain. (Literally “without industriousness no prize.”)
Sie ist fleißig wie eine Biene. She’s hardworking/busy like a bee.
Ich bin heute zu faul, um zu arbeiten. I’m too lazy to work today.
Deine unglaubliche Faulheit wird wirklich zum Problem. Your incredible laziness is really becoming a problem.
Free download
Get the 1000 Most Frequently Used German Nouns ebook - free.
Leave your email and I’ll send you a link to the ebook. You’ll also get my occasional German-learning tips. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Comments
Loading comments…