adjective
evil, mean, angry
A1
bös is an adjective meaning 'evil', 'mean' or 'angry'. Like böse, it’s gradable: comparative böser, superlative am bösesten. Not a participle or reflexive. Context determines whether it denotes moral wickedness, meanness, or temporary anger; forms and usage align with the regular adjective declension.
Examples
Der Hund ist nicht bös, er hat nur Angst.
The dog isn't mean; it's just scared.
Sie war sehr bös über die Nachricht.
She was very angry about the news.
Er wirkte bös, weil seine Worte scharf waren.
He appeared angry because his words were harsh.
Details
Mnemonics
visualize an angry face with a small 'o' mouth to recall bös (angry/mean)
bös ~ 'boas' (think of a hiss — mean/evil)
Notes
bös is a bit literary; in everyday speech böse is more common. Comparative: böser, superlative: am bösesten.