die Ehrfurcht
reverence
Definition & meaning
Ehrfurcht describes a feeling of deep respect, reverence, or awe. It is a complex emotion that combines high esteem with a sense of one's own insignificance or a "holy fear" in the face of something vast, sacred, or powerful. This word is often used in contexts involving religion, the sublime beauty of nature, or great moral authorities. Unlike simple respect, Ehrfurcht implies a level of devotion and solemnity.
Grammar & Word origin
The word is a feminine noun (die Ehrfurcht) and is generally used in the singular form. It is a compound noun consisting of two parts:
The combination does not imply being afraid of harm, but rather a profound apprehension or "fearful" respect toward something transcendent or majestic. This concept of "fear" is similar to the archaic English use of the word "fear" in "fear of God."
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms: Respekt (respect), Hochachtung (high esteem), Verehrung (veneration), Bewunderung (admiration), Scheu (shyness/awe), Demut (humility).
Antonyms: Verachtung (contempt), Respektlosigkeit (disrespect), Geringschätzung (disregard), Spott (mockery).
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Examples
Die Ehrfurcht vor der Natur ist wichtig.noun
Reverence for nature is important.
Die Musiker spielten mit spürbarer Ehrfurcht vor ihrem Publikum.noun
The musicians played with palpable reverence for their audience.
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