noun
der Abgrund, ¨-e
abyss
Eine sehr tiefe Stelle im Boden oder am Rand eines Felsens, in die man hinunterfallen kann.
Definition & meaning
The German word Abgrund generally refers to an abyss, a deep chasm, or a precipice.
- Physical sense: A very deep, steep, or bottomless opening in the earth or a deep drop in a landscape (e.g., a canyon or cliff).
- Figurative sense: It represents a psychological or moral depth, a state of profound despair, or a dangerous situation from which it is difficult to escape (e.g., "to stand on the edge of the abyss").
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: It is a masculine noun (der Abgrund). The plural form is die Abgründe.
- Word origin: It is composed of the prefix ab- (away, down) and the noun Grund (ground, bottom). Literally, it translates to "off-ground" or "away from the ground," implying a place where there is no solid bottom.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
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Examples
Der Wanderer steht am Rand des Abgrunds.noun
The hiker stands on the edge of the abyss.
Vorsichtig näherte er sich dem Abgrund.noun
Carefully he approached the abyss.
Vorsichtig schaut sie in den Abgrund hinab.noun
Carefully she looks down into the abyss.
Hast du keine Angst vor den tiefen Abgründen in dieser Region?noun
Aren't you afraid of the deep abysses in this region?
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