01
das Chaos
chaos
A state of complete disorder, mess, or confusion.
example
Nach der Party herrschte in der Wohnung das totale Chaos.
After the party, there was total chaos in the apartment.
das Chaos
chaos
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The adjective for 'Chaos' (chaos) is 'chaotisch' (chaotic). It describes a person, situation, or place that is disorderly and unorganized.
EXAMPLE
Sein Schreibtisch ist immer total chaotisch.
His desk is always totally chaotic.
Use in the singular
The word 'Chaos' (chaos) is used almost exclusively in the singular because it describes an uncountable state. A plural form is unusual.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem Sturm herrschte auf den Straßen ein einziges Chaos.
After the storm, the streets were nothing but chaos.
Typical collocations
'Chaos' (chaos) is often combined with intensifying adjectives such as 'total' (total), 'rein' (pure), or 'pur' (pure). Common verbs are 'herrschen' (to prevail/reign) or 'ausbrechen' (to break out).
EXAMPLE
Als der Strom ausfiel, brach im Bahnhof das totale Chaos aus.
When the power went out, total chaos broke out in the train station.
Technical context
The meaning of the 'Ur-Zustand' (primordial state) is used almost only in technical or literary texts, usually in the context of Greek mythology or philosophy.
EXAMPLE
In der antiken Kosmogonie entsteht die Ordnung aus dem Chaos.
In ancient cosmogony, order emerges from chaos.
Compare with
Chaos vs Ordnung
order
'die Ordnung' and 'das Chaos' are clear opposites. 'Ordnung' means that everything is clearly arranged and has its place. 'Chaos' means that everything is mixed up and it is difficult to find your way around. This contrast fits especially well for rooms, plans, work, or situations with many things. When you tidy up or sort something, chaos turns back into order.
Chaos
Nach der Prüfung lag auf dem Tisch nur noch Chaos.
After the exam, there was nothing but chaos left on the table.
Ordnung
Nach dem Aufräumen herrscht im Kinderzimmer wieder Ordnung.
After tidying up, there is order in the children's room again.
In real life
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