plötzlich
Meaning and Usage
"Plötzlich" is an adverb in German that means "suddenly" or "all of a sudden." It is used to express the unexpected and immediate nature of an event or change.
Linguistic Analysis
The word "plötzlich" has its origin in the Middle High German "blizzic," which means "sparkling, flashing." The prefix "plötz-" comes from the Middle Low German "pluts," which means "bang, crack." The suffix "-lich" is a common adverbial ending in German.
Comparisons between German and English
The word "plötzlich" corresponds to "suddenly" in English, emphasizing the abrupt and unforeseen nature of an action or event.
Cultural Context
In German culture, the concept of "plötzlich" is often related to unexpected plot twists in stories, movies, or real-life events. It conveys a sense of surprise or astonishment.
Example Sentences
- Plötzlich fing es an zu regnen. (Suddenly, it started to rain.)
- Sie hat plötzlich aufgehört zu reden. (She suddenly stopped talking.)
- Plötzlich klingelte das Telefon. (The phone suddenly rang.)
Memory Tips
To remember "plötzlich," think of an abrupt event that causes a "flash" or "bang" of surprise, as reflected in the word's etymology.
Additional Vocabulary
- Synonyms: auf einmal, unerwartet, urplötzlich
- Antonyms: allmählich, langsam
Gender and Plural (for nouns)
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Conjugation (for verbs)
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