aufreibend
grueling · exhausting
The German word "aufreibend" is an adjective derived from the verb "aufreiben", which combines "auf" (on/up) and "reiben" (to rub). Literally, "aufreiben" means "to rub off" or "to wear down."
"Aufreibend" describes something that is mentally or physically exhausting, draining, or stressful.
Similar words:
- anstrengend (strenuous, exhausting)
- ermüdend (tiring)
- auslaugend (depleting, draining)
Difference:
While "aufreibend" often emphasizes a grinding, wearing-down process causing exhaustion, "anstrengend" and "ermüdend" broadly refer to exertion or tiredness, and "auslaugend" highlights depletion of energy or resources.
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Examples
Die Arbeit ist sehr aufreibend.adjective
The work is very grueling.
Nach dem aufreibenden Tag wollte ich nur noch schlafen.adjective
After the exhausting day I just wanted to sleep.
Die Prüfungsvorbereitung war viel aufreibender, als ich erwartet hatte.adjective
The exam preparation was much more exhausting than I had expected.
Wir fanden das lange Gespräch ziemlich aufreibend.adjective
We found the long conversation quite exhausting.
Er verlor nach dem aufreibenden Wettkampf fast seine Stimme.adjective
He almost lost his voice after the exhausting competition.
Die aufreibende Suche nach einer passenden Lösung machte uns müde.adjective
The exhausting search for a suitable solution made us tired.
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