brutal
Describes an action that is extremely violent, ruthless, and cruel.
EXAMPLE
Der Überfall wurde mit brutaler Gewalt verübt.
The attack was carried out with brutal force.
brutal
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Meanings
brutal
Describes something that is unpleasant or shocking in its directness or harshness, without involving physical violence.
EXAMPLE
Er hat ihr mit brutaler Ehrlichkeit die Wahrheit gesagt.
He told her the truth with brutal honesty.
brutal
extremely
Used colloquially as an intensifier meaning 'extremely', 'very', or 'incredibly'.
EXAMPLE
Das Konzert gestern war brutal gut.
The concert yesterday was extremely good.
Usage tips
Context clue
The context shows the meaning: in connection with violence or crime, 'brutal' means cruel. With words like 'Ehrlichkeit' (honesty) or 'Wahrheit' (truth), it means unsparingly direct. As an intensifier before another adjective, it is colloquial for 'very'.
EXAMPLE
Der Film zeigte die brutale Realität des Krieges.
The film showed the brutal reality of war.
Typical collocations
In the meaning of 'violent', 'brutal' is often combined with nouns that describe a physical confrontation or aggression. Typical combinations are: 'brutale Gewalt' (brutal violence), 'ein brutaler Angriff' (a brutal attack), or 'ein brutales Foul' (a brutal foul, in sports).
EXAMPLE
Der Täter ging mit brutaler Härte vor.
The perpetrator acted with brutal severity.
Register: colloquial language
Using 'brutal' as an intensifier for 'very' or 'extremely' is purely colloquial and typical of youth language. It should be avoided in formal or written contexts.
EXAMPLE
Die Party am Wochenende war brutal lustig.
The party at the weekend was extremely fun.
Compare with
brutal vs hart
hard
When describing criticism or words, „hart“ and „brutal“ can both express unpleasant directness. „Hart“ mainly indicates a lack of leniency, while „brutal“ also suggests a shocking or particularly ruthless impression. Choose „hart“ for clear criticism and „brutal“ when the impact is stronger.
brutal
Die Trainerin kritisierte seine Leistung brutal direkt, sodass er völlig überrascht war.
The coach criticized his performance with brutal directness, so he was completely surprised.
hart
Die Trainerin kritisierte seine Leistung hart, blieb aber sachlich.
The coach criticized his performance harshly but remained objective.
In real life
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