absurdity
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absurdity
The quality of being illogical, nonsensical, or contrary to reason.
Die Absurdität der Situation war so groß, dass wir nur noch lachen konnten.
The absurdity of the situation was so great that all we could do was laugh.
'Absurdität' (absurdity) is the noun corresponding to the adjective 'absurd' (absurd). The ending '-ität' is often used to form abstract nouns from adjectives that describe a quality.
Die Situation war so absurd, dass niemand wusste, was er sagen sollte.
The situation was so absurd that no one knew what to say.
The word 'Absurdität' (absurdity) is mainly used in written language or in an intellectual, elevated register. It is rather rare in everyday conversation.
Der Philosoph schrieb ein Buch über die Absurdität des menschlichen Lebens.
The philosopher wrote a book about the absurdity of human life.
To relate the quality 'Absurdität' (absurdity) to something, the genitive or the preposition 'von' is often used.
Niemand verstand die Absurdität seiner Forderungen.
No one understood the absurdity of his demands.
When a specific action or statement is meant, 'Absurdität' (absurdity) can be used as a countable noun with an article or in the plural.
Seine Rede war eine einzige Absurdität.
His speech was complete absurdity.
nonsense
'Unsinn' and 'Absurdität' both have to do with something that is not logical or reasonable. 'Unsinn' is the more common everyday word and fits well for stupid statements, bad ideas, or pointless actions. 'Absurdität' sounds stronger and somewhat more elevated. It emphasizes that something completely contradicts reason or is almost ridiculously illogical. Learners may confuse the words because both refer to something illogical. In practice: in normal conversation, people often say 'Unsinn'; 'Absurdität' fits better when you find a situation or rule especially nonsensical.
Die Absurdität der neuen Regel merkt man sofort, wenn man sie anwenden muss.
You notice the absurdity of the new rule immediately when you have to apply it.
Vor dem Termin erzählt meine Kollegin keinen Unsinn, sondern erklärt ruhig den Plan.
Before the appointment, my colleague does not talk nonsense, but calmly explains the plan.