affect / emotional state
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affect
A brief but very intense emotional state such as anger, fear, or joy, which can impair rational thinking. The term is often used in psychology and law.
Der Angeklagte gab an, die Tat im Affekt begangen zu haben.
The defendant stated that he had committed the act in a state of affect.
'Der Affekt' (affect) refers to a sudden, intense emotional state such as anger or panic. Do not confuse it with the English word 'affection', which means 'Zuneigung' (affection) or 'Liebe' (love).
Er handelte aus reiner Wut, es war eine Tat im Affekt.
He acted out of pure anger; it was an act committed in a state of affect.
'Affekt' (affect) is a technical term from psychology and law. In everyday language, people are more likely to speak of 'Wut' (anger), 'Zorn' (rage), 'Panik' (panic), or a 'Gefühlsausbruch' (emotional outburst).
Vor Gericht wurde geprüft, ob der Täter im Affekt gehandelt hat.
In court, it was examined whether the perpetrator had acted in a state of affect.
The most common and important use is the fixed expression 'im Affekt' (in a state of affect). It describes an action that happens uncontrollably out of a strong emotion.
Sie hat die Vase im Affekt an die Wand geworfen.
She threw the vase against the wall in a state of affect.
feeling / sense
Das Gefühl can vary in intensity and last for a longer period. Der Affekt is a brief, particularly intense emotional state that can impair clear thinking and self-control. Gefühl is therefore appropriate for lasting anger, while Affekt describes a sudden, uncontrolled outburst.
Im Affekt warf er plötzlich sein Glas auf den Boden.
In the heat of the moment, he suddenly threw his glass onto the floor.
Das Gefühl der Wut begleitete ihn noch den ganzen Abend.
The feeling of anger stayed with him throughout the evening.
