astronomical
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astronomical
In a figurative sense, extremely large, huge, or unimaginably high. Often used for prices, sums, or numbers.
Die Kosten für die Renovierung des alten Theaters waren astronomisch.
The costs of renovating the old theater were astronomical.
The adjective 'astronomisch' (astronomical) is derived from the noun 'die Astronomie' (astronomy). The ending '-isch' means 'relating to.'
Er interessiert sich für Astronomie und liest viele Bücher über das Universum.
He is interested in astronomy and reads many books about the universe.
In its figurative meaning, 'astronomisch' (astronomical) is almost always used with words for amounts or values. Common combinations are 'astronomische Preise' (astronomical prices), 'astronomische Summen' (astronomical sums), or 'astronomische Höhen' (astronomical heights).
Die Immobilienpreise in der Innenstadt haben astronomische Höhen erreicht.
Real estate prices in the city center have reached astronomical heights.
You can recognize the literal meaning by the fact that the adjective is combined with scientific terms from space research. Typical phrases are 'astronomische Beobachtung' (astronomical observation), 'astronomische Einheit' (astronomical unit), or 'astronomisches Phänomen' (astronomical phenomenon).
Die Entdeckung eines neuen Planeten ist ein wichtiges astronomisches Ereignis.
The discovery of a new planet is an important astronomical event.
low / slight
'gering' and 'astronomisch' can both describe the size of a number, sum, or amount. But they mean almost the opposite. 'gering' means that something is small or low. 'astronomisch' is used figuratively when something is extremely large or very high, especially with prices, costs, or numbers. 'astronomisch' sounds stronger and often also somewhat critical, for example with excessively high prices.
Im Restaurant sind die Preise für manche Weine astronomisch.
In the restaurant, the prices for some wines are astronomical.
Der Schaden am Auto ist zum Glück nur gering.
Fortunately, the damage to the car is only slight.