German Words of the Day: “froh” and “glücklich” – Both of these German words essentially express happiness, with some subtle differences:

– The word “froh” expresses a somewhat more temporary gladness or relief.
“Ich bin froh, dass es funktioniert hat.” – “I am glad it worked.”

– The word “glücklich” expresses a deeper, more permanent happiness or life-satisfaction:
“Er ist eine glückliche Person.” – “He is a happy person.”

Contrary to what it may sound like, the word “glücklich” DOES NOT mean “lucky”. In fact (perhaps tellingly), the German language has no word for “lucky”. Germans have to use the construction “to have luck” in order to express good fortune befalling them: “Er hatte Glück als er den Jackpot gewonnen hat.” – “He was lucky when he won the jackpot.”