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adjectiveverb

übertrieben

exaggerated · exaggerate

Etwas wird stärker oder größer dargestellt, als es wirklich ist.

Definition & meaning

The word "übertrieben" primarily describes something that is exaggerated, excessive, or goes beyond what is reasonable or true. It is used in several contexts:

  1. Exaggerated: When a story or a claim is represented as more significant, better, or worse than it actually is. For example, if someone claims they caught a fish the size of a car, that is "übertrieben."
  2. Excessive: When an action, reaction, or quality is too much or "over the top." For instance, a reaction that is far too emotional for a minor event would be called "übertrieben."
  3. Slang/Intensifier: In modern German youth slang, "übertrieben" is frequently used as an adverb to mean "extremely," "insanely," or "really." In this context, it doesn't necessarily mean "too much" in a negative way, but rather emphasizes the intensity of a following adjective (e.g., "übertrieben gut" means "insanely good").

Grammar & Word origin

"übertrieben" is the past participle of the German verb übertreiben, which means "to exaggerate."

It is composed of two parts:

  • über: A prefix meaning "over," "above," or "beyond."
  • treiben: A verb meaning "to drive," "to push," or "to do."

Literally, the word suggests "driving something too far" or "pushing beyond the limit." Grammatically, it can function as an adjective (declined according to the noun it modifies) or as an adverb.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

  • maßlos: Used when something has no measure or moderation.
  • exzessiv: Often used for behaviors or habits that are out of control.
  • extrem: Used to describe something at the far end of a scale.
  • überspannt: Often used for ideas or expectations that are unrealistic or eccentric.
  • geschwollen: Specifically used for exaggerated or pompous language.

Antonyms

  • untertrieben: To present something as smaller or less important than it is (understated).
  • angemessen: Something that is appropriate or suitable for the situation.
  • moderat: Moderate or within reasonable limits.
  • dezent: Subtle or restrained.

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Examples

Deine Reaktion ist etwas übertrieben.adjective

Your reaction is a bit exaggerated.

Das klingt ein bisschen übertrieben.adjective

That sounds a bit exaggerated.

Seine übertriebenen Versprechen überzeugten niemanden.adjective

His exaggerated promises convinced no one.

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