decadence
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decadence
A state of moral or cultural decline, often characterized by excessive luxury, self-indulgence, and the loss of traditional values.
Kritiker sahen in dem ausschweifenden Lebensstil der Oberschicht ein Zeichen von Dekadenz.
Critics saw the extravagant lifestyle of the upper class as a sign of decadence.
'Dekadenz' (decadence) is a word used in elevated language. You find it mainly in intellectual, historical, or culture-critical texts and discussions.
Der Historiker beschrieb den Übergang von der Republik zum Kaiserreich als eine Zeit der politischen Dekadenz.
The historian described the transition from the republic to the empire as a time of political decadence.
When 'Dekadenz' (decadence) describes a lifestyle, the word usually has a strongly negative connotation. It criticizes excessive luxury, wastefulness, and a lack of morality.
Sein ausschweifiges Leben wurde von vielen als pure Dekadenz angesehen.
His extravagant life was regarded by many as pure decadence.
When people speak of 'Dekadenz' (Decadence) as a historical period, the term is more neutral. It refers to a specific art and literary movement at the end of the 19th century, without necessarily containing a moral judgment.
Im Seminar analysierten wir Gedichte aus der Zeit der Dekadenz.
In the seminar, we analyzed poems from the period of Decadence.
decay / expiration
'Verfall' and 'Dekadenz' can both describe moral or cultural decline. 'Verfall' is the more general word and can also refer to buildings, strength, or values. 'Dekadenz' is more specific: it means moral or cultural decay, often associated with too much luxury, indulgence, and a lack of values. The words can be confused when talking about society or morality. 'Verfall' sounds more neutral and broader, while 'Dekadenz' more strongly judges a lifestyle or culture.
Der Film zeigt die Dekadenz einer reichen Familie, die nur an Luxus denkt.
The film shows the decadence of a rich family that thinks only about luxury.
Viele Bürger sorgen sich über den Verfall gemeinsamer Regeln.
Many citizens are worried about the decay of shared rules.