German Conversation · Level 166
30 words
German word
kurzweilig
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈkʊɐ̯t͡sˌvaɪ̯lɪç/
Meaning
- adjectiveentertaining
Example
Der Film ist kurzweiliger als das Buch.
The film is more entertaining than the book.
More examples
Die Diskussion war kurzweilig und informativ.
The discussion was entertaining and informative.
Core concept
An engaging activity makes an hour feel like a short while.
Common phrases
kurzweilige Unterhaltung
entertaining conversation
kurzweilig erzählt
entertainingly told
Similar words
unterhaltsam: Pleasantly engaging and free from boredom for an audience.
amüsant: Cheerfully amusing in a relaxed, uncomplicated way.
spannend: Filled with suspense or excitement that keeps the outcome in doubt.
fesselnd: Highly engaging and difficult to stop watching or following.
Definition in German
Kurzweilig bezeichnet etwas, das Unterhaltung bietet und so interessant ist, dass die Zeit schnell vergeht.
Word origin
The compound joins German kurz, meaning 'short', with Weile, meaning 'while', and developed the sense of making time pass quickly through enjoyment.
Usage tips
- Unlike English 'short-lived', kurzweilig describes an experience that feels brief because it is entertaining, not something that ends soon.