das Unheil, null
disaster · doom · misfortune
The German word "Unheil" is a noun that means "disaster," "misfortune," or "calamity." It is composed of the prefix "Un-" which marks a negation, and the noun "Heil," which means "well-being" or "salvation." When combined, "Unheil" essentially refers to a situation of great harm or distress.
Similar words in German include "Katastrophe" (catastrophe), "Unglück" (misfortune), and "Schaden" (damage or harm).
Differences:
- Katastrophe: Generally used for large-scale or severe disasters, often natural or man-made events.
- Unglück: Focuses more on unfortunate events or mishaps, which might be less severe but still cause trouble or harm.
- Schaden: Often more focused on damage or harm caused to property or health, rather than an overarching disaster or calamity.
Each of these words carries nuances that make them more suitable for specific contexts compared to "Unheil."
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Examples
Der Sturm bringt Unheil über das Dorf.noun
The storm brings disaster to the village.
Das Unheil nähert sich langsam.noun
The disaster is approaching slowly.
Plötzlich spürt man das Unheil in der Luft.noun
Suddenly one senses the disaster in the air.
Über dem alten Haus lag Unheil in der Luft.noun
There was a sense of doom in the air over the old house.
Dunkle Wolken am Himmel bedeuteten Unheil für die Bauern.noun
Dark clouds in the sky meant misfortune for the farmers.
Unheil liegt über dem alten Schloss.noun
Doom hangs over the old castle.
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