German word

fließend

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈfliːsn̩t/

Meaning

  • adverbfluently

Example

Er spricht fließend Englisch.

He speaks English fluently.

Illustration for fließend (fluently)

More examples

In Diskussionen kann sie komplexe Themen fließend erörtern.

In discussions, she can discuss complex topics fluently.

Core concept

Words come out in a steady, confident flow, and a task proceeds without awkward breaks or resistance.

Common phrases

  • fließend verhandeln

    fluently negotiate

  • fließend formulieren

    fluently formulate

  • fließend erörtern

    fluently discuss

Similar words

flüssig: In an uninterrupted, smooth way when speaking.
natürlich: In a way that sounds natural rather than forced.
fehlerfrei: With speech that is correct and nearly free of mistakes.

Definition in German

In einer Tätigkeit glatt und ohne Pause ablaufen; bei Sprachen: eine Sprache flüssig und sicher anwenden.

Word origin

German formed fließend from fließen with the participle ending -end, later using the literal idea of flowing for smooth performance.

Usage tips

  • Calling language use 'fließend' describes smooth command but does not by itself mean native-level or error-free speech.

Other meanings

  • smoothlyadverb
  • seamlesslyadverb

Opposites

  • stockendhaltinglyadverb
  • abgehacktchoppilyadverb

Related words

Word lists with this word