elektrisch
electric
Relates to electricity; powered, generated, or connected by electricity.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe mir eine elektrische Zahnbürste gekauft.
I bought myself an electric toothbrush.
elektrisch
electric
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Meanings
elektrisch
electric
Figuratively describes an atmosphere filled with great tension, excitement, or anticipation.
EXAMPLE
Vor dem Finale herrschte im Stadion eine elektrische Stimmung.
Before the final, there was an electric atmosphere in the stadium.
Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'elektrisch' (electric) is derived from the noun 'die Elektrizität' (electricity). The ending '-isch' is often used to form adjectives that describe belonging or a quality.
EXAMPLE
Die Erfindung der elektrischen Glühbirne hat die Welt verändert.
The invention of the electric light bulb changed the world.
Typical collocations
In its literal meaning, 'elektrisch' (electric) is often combined with technical terms. Common collocations are 'elektrischer Strom' (electric current), 'ein elektrisches Gerät' (an electric device/appliance), or 'elektrische Energie' (electric energy).
EXAMPLE
Moderne Autos haben viele elektrische Bauteile.
Modern cars have many electric components.
Context clue
You can recognize the figurative meaning from the context. When 'elektrisch' (electric) is used with abstract nouns such as 'Stimmung' (mood/atmosphere), 'Atmosphäre' (atmosphere), or 'Spannung' (tension), it describes a high level of emotional tension.
EXAMPLE
Vor der Bekanntgabe der Ergebnisse herrschte eine elektrische Spannung im Raum.
Before the results were announced, there was an electric tension in the room.
Compare with
elektrisch vs elektronisch
electronic
Elektrisch and elektronisch can both describe a device related to electricity. Elektrisch primarily emphasizes that something is powered by or connected to electricity; elektronisch highlights that it operates using electronic components. Elektrisch fits the energy supply, while elektronisch fits the internal control system.
elektrisch
Der elektrische Rollladen wird mit Strom betrieben.
The electric roller shutter is powered by electricity.
elektronisch
Der elektronische Rollladen wird von einem kleinen Chip gesteuert.
The electronic roller shutter is controlled by a small chip.
In real life
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