die Lebensaufgabe
Translation
life's work, life's mission, calling
Examples
Er sah es als seine Lebensaufgabe an, zu helfen.
He saw it as his life's mission to help.
Ihre Lebensaufgabe war die Erforschung der Tiefsee.
Her life's work was the exploration of the deep sea.
Grammar Patterns
to see sth. as one's life's mission ((et4 als seine Lebensaufgabe ansehen)) He sees music as his life's mission.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Mission, calling, Lebenswerk
Etymology
Made up of 'Leben' (life) and 'Aufgabe' (task, assignment). Literally means 'life's task'.
Memory Tips
Imagine a task ('Aufgabe') so big and meaningful that it takes an entire life ('Leben') to accomplish.