German Conversation · Level 75
59 words
German word
Enge
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈɛŋə/
Meaning
- feminine nounnarrowness
Example
In der Enge des Zimmers kann man kaum atmen.
Because the room is so narrow, you can hardly breathe.
More examples
Der Vorwurf trieb sie in die Enge.
The accusation drove her into a corner.
Core concept
Walls, circumstances, or feelings closing in until freedom of movement or decision becomes scarce.
Common phrases
in die Enge treiben
drive into a corner
die Enge spüren
feel confined
Similar words
Beengtheit: The uncomfortable feeling of being cramped in a place or situation.
Beklemmung: A tight, anxious feeling as if the chest were being squeezed.
Platzmangel: Insufficient room for the intended use or number of occupants.
Definition in German
Enge bezeichnet sowohl eine tatsächliche räumliche Enge als auch eine Situation mit wenig Handlungsspielraum, etwa finanzielle oder emotionale Einschränkung.
Word origin
Enge is the noun derived from eng, which developed from an older Germanic adjective for something constricted or tight.
Usage tips
- The idiom jemanden in die Enge treiben uses the accusative and means to put someone under pressure or leave no viable choice.