berauschend
exhilarating
Something that is very exciting, captivating, or thrilling and triggers strong positive emotions.
EXAMPLE
Der Sieg der Heimmannschaft war ein berauschendes Erlebnis.
The home team's victory was an exhilarating experience.
berauschend
exhilarating / intoxicating
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
berauschend
intoxicating
A substance that has an intoxicating effect and alters consciousness, such as alcohol or drugs.
EXAMPLE
Der Konsum berauschender Mittel ist am Steuer verboten.
The use of intoxicating substances is prohibited when driving.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'berauschend' (exhilarating / intoxicating) comes from the verb 'berauschen' (to intoxicate) and the noun 'der Rausch' (intoxication/high). A 'Rausch' is a state reached through alcohol or drugs. This origin explains both meanings: the literal one (a substance that causes intoxication) and the figurative one (an experience that is as exciting as a high).
EXAMPLE
Die Fans feierten den berauschenden Sieg ihrer Mannschaft bis in die Nacht.
The fans celebrated their team's exhilarating victory late into the night.
Context clue
You can tell whether the literal or figurative meaning is intended from the noun. If 'berauschend' (intoxicating) appears with substances such as 'Mittel' (substances) or 'Getränke' (drinks), it is about an intoxicating effect. If it appears with experiences such as 'Fest' (party), 'Erfolg' (success), or 'Gefühl' (feeling), it means 'begeisternd' (thrilling/exhilarating).
EXAMPLE
Er wurde wegen des Fahrens unter dem Einfluss berauschender Mittel angeklagt.
He was charged with driving under the influence of intoxicating substances.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'begeisternd' (thrilling/exhilarating), 'berauschend' (exhilarating) is often combined with positive events and feelings. Typical collocations are 'ein berauschendes Fest' (an exhilarating party), 'ein berauschender Erfolg' (a resounding success), or 'ein berauschendes Gefühl' (an exhilarating feeling).
EXAMPLE
Nach Monaten harter Arbeit war der Erfolg ein berauschendes Gefühl für das ganze Team.
After months of hard work, the success was an exhilarating feeling for the whole team.
In real life
Loading video examples...