adjective
difficult, challenging
A2
Adjective meaning 'difficult' or 'challenging' (top senses). Gradable: comparative 'schwieriger', superlative 'am schwierigsten'. Opposites include 'leicht' or 'einfach'. Used for tasks, problems, or situations. Not a participle; regular adjective inflection applies. E.g., 'Das ist schwierig.' Also common in academic and everyday contexts.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.EXAMPLES
Die Prüfung war schwieriger als erwartet.
The exam was more difficult than expected.
Es ist eine schwierige Entscheidung für alle Beteiligten.
It's a challenging decision for everyone involved.
Der Lehrer erklärte, dass die Aufgabe schwierig war, obwohl einige Schüler schneller als erwartet fertig wurden.
The teacher explained that the task was difficult, although some students finished faster than expected.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.DETAILS_LABEL
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.MNEMONICS
Imagine a steep mountain labeled 'schwierig' to recall 'challenging'.
Think 'sweary-g' — something that makes you frustrated, i.e., difficult.
VOCABULARY.DETAILS.NOTES
Can be used for tasks, situations, decisions; degree can be modified (sehr schwierig).