eckig
angular
Describing a shape that has corners and edges and is not round or curved.
EXAMPLE
Wir suchen einen eckigen Tisch, der gut in die Nische passt.
We are looking for an angular table that fits well into the alcove.
eckig
angular
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Meanings
eckig
jerky
Describing movements that seem awkward, stiff, or lacking harmony.
EXAMPLE
Als Anfänger waren seine Tanzbewegungen noch sehr eckig.
As a beginner, his dance movements were still very jerky.
eckig
abrasive
Describing a character that is difficult to deal with, unyielding, or confrontational and easily rubs others the wrong way.
EXAMPLE
Mit seiner direkten und manchmal eckigen Art macht er sich nicht nur Freunde.
With his direct and sometimes abrasive manner, he doesn't exactly make only friends.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'eckig' (angular) is derived directly from the noun 'die Ecke' (corner). All meanings, including the figurative ones, relate to the idea of a corner: something is not smooth, not round, or not easygoing.
EXAMPLE
Stell den Stuhl bitte in die Ecke.
Please put the chair in the corner.
Context clue
If 'eckig' (angular) refers to an object, it means the geometric shape. If it refers to a person, it describes either awkward movements or a difficult character.
EXAMPLE
Das Paket ist ziemlich groß und eckig.
The package is quite large and angular.
Typical collocations
In connection with movements, 'eckig' (jerky/angular) is often used to describe a lack of elegance or practice. Typical phrases are 'eckige Bewegungen' (jerky movements) or 'eckig tanzen' (to dance stiffly/awkwardly).
EXAMPLE
Der Roboter bewegte sich sehr eckig durch den Raum.
The robot moved through the room in a very jerky way.
Fixed expression
To describe a difficult character, the fixed expression 'eckig und kantig' (rough around the edges; literally: angular and edged) is often used. It describes a person who is unyielding and often rubs people the wrong way.
EXAMPLE
Er ist ein ehrlicher Typ, aber eben auch ein bisschen eckig und kantig.
He is an honest guy, but also a bit rough around the edges.
In real life
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