German word

kurz

Pronunciation

IPA/kʊʁt͡s/

Meaning

  • adjectiveshort

Example

Das kurze Gespräch war wichtig.

The short conversation was important.

Illustration for kurz (short)

More examples

Ich habe nur eine kurze Frage.

I have just one short question.

Core concept

A small segment is taken from a longer span, whether the span is distance, time, or an utterance.

Common phrases

  • eine kurze Pause

    a short break

  • ein kurzes Gespräch

    a short conversation

  • eine kurze Frage

    a short question

Similar words

knapp: Barely sufficient in amount or available time.
kurzfristig: Set within a short time frame or on short notice.
kurzzeitig: Continuing for only a very short time.
flüchtig: Appearing briefly before quickly disappearing.

Definition in German

Kurz beschreibt eine knapp bemessene Länge oder Dauer und kann auch eine prägnante, kurze Äußerung meinen.

Word origin

The adjective kurz is an inherited Germanic word recorded in Old High German, with its basic meaning remaining stable over time.

Usage tips

  • In colloquial speech, kurz mal means 'briefly' or 'just for a moment' and often marks a small, informal action.

Other meanings

  • conciselyadverb
  • brieflyadverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word