adjective
exciting
A2
Adjective meaning 'exciting' or 'thrilling'. Originally a present participle (from the verb spannen) and used adjectivally. Gradable: comparative spannender, superlative am spannendsten. Antonym: langweilig. Not reflexive or prepositional; often describes events, books, films and can act as participle/adjective in sentences.
Examples
Obwohl der Film spannend war, verließen einige Zuschauer das Kino, weil das Ende zu langgezogen erschien.
Although the film was exciting, some viewers left the cinema because the ending seemed too drawn out.
Das Buch war wirklich spannend von der ersten bis zur letzten Seite.
The book was really exciting from the first to the last page.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture a rollercoaster with a big sign 'spannend' flashing when the ride is thrilling
sounds like 'span-nend' — imagine a 'span' that holds attention
Notes
'spannend' is a participial adjective derived from the verb 'spannen' and is gradable.