die Lebensgrundlage
Translation
livelihood, basis for life, subsistence
Examples
Wasser ist die Lebensgrundlage für alle.
Water is the basis of life for everyone.
Die Fischerei ist seine einzige Lebensgrundlage.
Fishing is his only livelihood.
Grammar Patterns
to deprive sb. of their livelihood j-m die Lebensgrundlage entziehen The drought deprived the farmers of their livelihood.
Similar Words
Synonyms: livelihood, subsistence, income
Etymology
Composed of 'Leben' (life) and 'Grundlage' (foundation, basis). Literally the 'foundation of life'.
Memory Tips
Imagine the 'ground' (Grund) on which your 'life' (Leben) is built. That's your basis for life.