die Gunst, ¨-e
favor
Ein freundliches oder wohlwollendes Verhalten, bei dem jemand einer anderen Person etwas Positives gönnt oder sie bevorzugt.
Definition & meaning
The German noun Gunst refers to a benevolent, friendly, or supportive attitude that someone has towards another person. It is often translated as favor, goodwill, or benevolence. When someone is in the Gunst of another, they are well-regarded or preferred by that person, often implying a position of advantage or protection.
A second meaning of Gunst relates to favorable circumstances or timing. It describes a situation that is advantageous for a specific action. This is commonly seen in the idiom "die Gunst der Stunde nutzen", which means to take advantage of a favorable moment or to seize the opportunity.
Grammar & Word origin
Gunst is a feminine noun (die Gunst). In modern German, it is primarily used in the singular form; while a plural form (die Günste) exists, it is extremely rare and usually restricted to poetic or archaic contexts.
The word originates from the Middle High German "gunst" and Old High German "gonst". It is derived from the verb gönnen, which means to grant, to allow, or to not begrudge. Etymologically, it is related to the concept of "giving" or "granting" something out of kindness or grace.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms for the sense of goodwill or favor: Wohlwollen, Huld, Bevorzugung, Zuneigung, Protektion.
Synonyms for the sense of opportunity: Gelegenheit, Chance, Glücksumstand.
Antonyms: Missgunst (envy or resentment), Ungnade (disgrace or being out of favor), Ablehnung (rejection), Abneigung (dislike).
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Examples
Ich bitte um deine Gunst.noun
I ask for your favor.
Er hofft auf die Gunst des Schicksals.noun
He hopes for the favor of fate.
Er bittet um ihre Gunst.noun
He asks for her favor.
Ohne die Gunst des Publikums hätte der Musiker niemals so viel Erfolg gehabt.noun
Without the favor of the audience, the musician would never have had so much success.
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