German Conversation · Level 2
87 words
German word
bitter
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈbɪtɐ/
Meaning
- adjectivebitter
Example
Der Tee hat einen bitteren Geschmack.
The tea has a bitter taste.
More examples
Seine bitteren Worte verletzten sie sehr.
His bitter words hurt her very much.
Core concept
A dark drink bites the tongue and leaves a harsh edge that can also color words and experiences.
Common phrases
einen bitteren Nachgeschmack haben
have a bitter aftertaste
mit bitterem Beigeschmack
with a bitter aftertaste
bittere Kritik
bitter criticism
Similar words
herb: Having a dry taste with a lingering, slightly bitter edge.
scharf: Giving the tongue or nose a strong, tingling sensation.
kräftig: Full of distinct, powerful flavor or aroma.
würzig: Having a rich flavor from prominent spices or herbs.
Definition in German
von einem herben, oft unangenehmen Geschmack; im übertragenen Sinn scharf oder hart im Ausdruck
Word origin
German bitter is an inherited Germanic adjective related to English bitter and recorded in Old High German as bitar.
Usage tips
- In bitter kalt, bitter intensifies the following adjective and means extremely rather than describing taste.