ausgesprochen

The German word "ausgesprochen" is the past participle of the verb "aussprechen" and can function as an adjective meaning "expressed," "pronounced," or in colloquial use, "pronounced" / "distinct" / "very" (emphasizing a quality).

• Components:
  • aus = out, fully
  • sprechen = to speak

So "aussprechen" literally means "to speak out" or "to express."

Similar words:

• deutlich (clear, distinct)
• explizit (explicit)
• ausdrücklich (express, explicit)

Differences:

• "ausgesprochen" as an adjective often emphasizes a strong or notable degree ("ein ausgesprochen guter Tag" = a decidedly good day), while "deutlich" and "explizit" focus more on clarity or explicitness rather than emphasis.
• As a verb participle, "ausgesprochen" strictly means "expressed" or "pronounced," different from simply "gesprochen" (spoken).

In short, "ausgesprochen" carries nuance both of expression and emphasis, setting it apart from similar words.