kaum
Meaning and Usage
"Kaum" is a German adverb that translates to "hardly" or "barely" in English. It is used to indicate a small quantity, degree, or frequency of something.
Linguistic Analysis
The word "kaum" does not have any prefix, root, or suffix. It originates from the Middle High German word "koum," which means "barely" or "scarcely."
Comparisons between German and English
The word "kaum" has a direct counterpart in English, which is "hardly" or "barely."
Cultural Context
The use of "kaum" reflects the German tendency to be precise and nuanced in expressing quantity and degree.
Example Sentences
- Sie kann kaum laufen. (She can barely walk.)
- Es gibt kaum noch Kekse. (There are hardly any cookies left.)
Memory Tips
Associate "kaum" with the English word "barely" to remember its meaning and usage.
Additional Vocabulary
Related words: knapp (scant), nur (only), fast (almost)
Gender and Plural (for nouns)
No gender or plural form for the adverb "kaum."
Conjugation (for verbs)
Not applicable as "kaum" is an adverb and does not undergo conjugation.