How Do You Spell CDU/CSU?

Pronunciation: [sˌiːdˌiːjˈuː slˈaʃ sˌiːˌɛsjˈuː] (IPA)

The spelling of "CDU/CSU" may seem confusing at first glance, but its pronunciation is quite simple. CDU stands for Christian Democratic Union, while CSU stands for Christian Social Union. The two parties often form a parliamentary group in the German Bundestag. In terms of pronunciation, "CDU" is spelled /tse:de:uː/, while "CSU" is pronounced /tse:esu:/. Despite the slight differences, the two parties share a common ideology and often collaborate in the German political scene.

CDU/CSU Meaning and Definition

  1. CDU/CSU is an abbreviation used to refer to the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union in Germany. It is a political alliance that consists of two sister parties, the CDU and the CSU, which operate as a single parliamentary group at the national level.

    The CDU, or the Christian Democratic Union, is a center-right political party in Germany, while the CSU, or the Christian Social Union, operates exclusively in the state of Bavaria. Both parties follow the principles of Christian democracy, emphasizing social conservatism, law and order, and free market economics.

    CDU/CSU is known for its broad-based support and has been one of the dominant political forces in Germany for many years. It has traditionally drawn support from a wide range of voters, including conservatives, centrists, and moderate liberals.

    As a political alliance, CDU/CSU holds a significant influence in the German federal government. It has consistently been one of the main parties in power, often leading coalition governments, and has produced several German chancellors, including Angela Merkel.

    Overall, CDU/CSU represents a conservative political force in Germany, focusing on Christian values, economic stability, and traditional social policies. Its influence extends beyond the national level, with both parties having regional branches in various German states.

Etymology of CDU/CSU

The term "CDU/CSU" stands for Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands/Christlich-Soziale Union in Bayern e.V., which translates to the Christian Democratic Union of Germany/Christian Social Union in Bavaria. Therefore, the etymology of the word originates from the names of the political parties themselves:

1. Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands (CDU): The CDU, founded in 1945, is a conservative and center-right political party in Germany. Its name "Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands" can be translated as "Christian Democratic Union of Germany". The term "Christlich" refers to "Christian", while "Demokratische" means "Democratic" and "Union Deutschlands" stands for "Union of Germany".

2. Christlich-Soziale Union in Bayern e.V.