adjective
extreme, very
B1
extrem means extreme or very; it describes intensity (e.g., eine extreme Situation). It is gradable: comparative extremer, superlative am extremsten. Can be used attributively or adverbially ('extrem wichtig'). Not irregular; follows standard adjective inflection. Often strengthens adjectives in colloquial speech.
Examples
Die Temperaturen sind extrem niedrig.
The temperatures are extremely low.
Das war eine extreme Situation für alle Beteiligten.
That was an extreme situation for everyone involved.
Die Wanderung war extrem anstrengend, sodass mehrere Teilnehmer früh umdrehten.
The hike was extremely exhausting, so several participants turned back early.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture a cliff edge or extreme weather to show intensity.
Like English 'extreme' — almost identical meaning and sound.
Notes
Often used to emphasize intensity. As an adverb the related form can be 'extrem' as well (e.g., 'extrem wichtig' = 'very important').