German Conversation · Level 128
44 words
German word
eigenwillig
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈaɪ̯gn̩ˌvɪlɪç/
Meaning
- adjectivedistinctive
Example
Das eigenwillige Lächeln bleibt mir im Gedächtnis.
The distinctive smile remains etched in my memory.
More examples
Eine eigenwillige Person fällt oft durch originelle Ideen auf.
An individualistic person often stands out for their original ideas.
Core concept
An unusual style or determined person stands apart because it follows an inner preference rather than convention.
Common phrases
eigenwillige Person
individualistic person
eigenwillige Ausdrucksweise
distinctive way of expressing oneself
Similar words
eigensinnig: Firmly attached to personal ideas or methods and unwilling to change them.
hartnäckig: Persistent in pursuing a goal or position despite repeated obstacles.
originell: Fresh and creative in a way that departs from established patterns.
individuell: Unique to a particular person or thing, reflecting its own character or preferences.
Definition in German
eigenwillig bezeichnet eine Person oder Sache, die nach eigenem Willen handelt und sich von üblichen Erwartungen unterscheidet.
Word origin
The compound eigenwillig joins eigen with willig, which is historically connected with Wille and wollen, forming the sense of guided by one's own will.
Usage tips
- For people, eigenwillig often suggests stubborn nonconformity, while for works or styles it can describe an unusual character without strong criticism.
Other meanings
- individualisticadjective
- eccentricadjective
- headstrongadjective
Opposites
- anpassungsfähigadaptableadjective
- konformconformingadjective
Related words
- Eigenwilligkeitindividualitynoun
- Eigensinnstubbornnessnoun