German word

giftig

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈgɪftɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectivepoisonous

Example

Das giftige Gas ist gefährlich.

The poisonous gas is dangerous.

Illustration for giftig (poisonous)

More examples

Das giftige Abwasser gelangte in den Fluss.

The poisonous wastewater reached the river.

Core concept

A dangerous material that damages the body when it is swallowed, inhaled, injected, or absorbed through the skin.

Common phrases

  • giftige Substanz

    poisonous substance

  • giftige Chemikalien

    poisonous chemicals

  • giftiges Abwasser

    poisonous wastewater

Similar words

gefährlich: Likely to cause harm or damage to people or things.
toxisch: Able to cause severe harm to the body even in small amounts.
schädlich: Causing lasting harmful effects on the body or the environment.
vergiftend: Able to cause poisoning through swallowing or physical contact.

Definition in German

Beschreibt die Eigenschaft von Dingen, Gift zu enthalten oder giftige Wirkung zu haben.

Word origin

Giftig is formed from the noun Gift, "poison," and the adjective-forming suffix -ig, so its meaning is based directly on poisonous properties.

Usage tips

  • English gift is a false friend here: German Gift refers to poison, while "present" is usually Geschenk in German.

Other meanings

  • toxicadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word