das Getöse
din
Ein sehr lautes und störendes Geräusch, das oft durch viele Stimmen oder herabfallende Dinge entsteht.
Definition & meaning
The word "Getöse" refers to a loud, deafening, and continuous noise or din. It often implies a sense of chaos, confusion, or overwhelming sound. It can be used to describe natural phenomena, such as the roaring of a waterfall or a violent storm, as well as man-made commotion, like the racket of heavy machinery or a loud, unruly crowd.
In some contexts, it can also be used figuratively to describe a great deal of "fuss" or "hype" about something that might not be as important as the noise suggests.
Grammar & Word origin
"Getöse" is a neuter noun (das Getöse). It is generally used in the singular form, as it describes a collective state of noise.
The word is derived from the German verb tosen, which means to roar, rage, or thunder. The prefix "ge-" is a common German morphological element used to form collective nouns or to indicate a repetitive or continuous action/state. Historically, it is related to the Middle High German word "gedœse," which carried a similar meaning of loud rushing or roaring.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms: The most common synonyms include Lärm (noise), Krach (crash/noise), Radau (racket), and Spektakel (spectacle/uproar). For specifically natural sounds, Toserei (roaring) or Brausen (rushing) are often used.
Antonyms: The primary antonyms are Stille (silence) and Ruhe (quiet/calm). In contexts of speech or human interaction, Schweigen (silence/refraining from speech) may also serve as an opposite.
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Examples
Könnt ihr dieses schreckliche Getöse draußen hören?noun
Can you hear that terrible din outside?
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