Rotkehlchen nisten im Rucksack im Wohnungsflur

What does “Nachwuchs” mean in German?

Nachwuchs is the everyday German word for young ones. The robins in this clip fly in and out to feed their Nachwuchs — their chicks. But the word works just as naturally for a person’s children, so “Wir bekommen Nachwuchs” means a baby is on the way. It can even stretch to new talent joining a club or sport. It’s warm and cozy for babies and children, but in talent or recruitment contexts it turns neutral, even formal.

“Seitdem fliegen die Rotkehlchen regelmäßig durchs Fenster ein und aus, ihren Nachwuchs zu versorgen.” — “Since then the robins fly in and out through the window regularly to take care of their young.” “Die Katze kümmert sich um ihren Nachwuchs.” — “The cat looks after her young.” “Wir bekommen bald Nachwuchs.” — “We’re having a baby soon.” (a warm, common way to announce it) “Der Verein sucht Nachwuchs.” — “The club is looking for new young members / new talent.” Usage notes: “Nachwuchs” is used in the singular even when several babies are involved — you do not make it plural. It covers animal young (as in this clip), human children, and the next wave of newcomers in a sport, job, or organisation.