ergreifend
moving / touching
Causing strong feelings such as emotion, sympathy, or sadness; emotionally very moving.
EXAMPLE
Die Rede des Zeitzeugen war zutiefst ergreifend.
The eyewitness's speech was deeply moving.
ergreifend
moving / touching
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
'Ergreifend' (moving/touching) is the present participle of the verb 'ergreifen' (to seize/grasp). 'Ergreifen' means 'to grasp' or 'to grab'. So something 'ergreifend' (moving/touching) is something that 'grabs' a person's feelings and touches them deeply emotionally.
EXAMPLE
Die Geschichte ihres Lebens hat mich tief ergriffen.
The story of her life moved me deeply.
Typical collocations
The adjective is often used to describe art, music, literature, or special moments. Typical combinations are: 'eine ergreifende Geschichte' (a moving story), 'ein ergreifender Film' (a moving film), 'ergreifende Musik' (moving music), or 'ein ergreifender Abschied' (a moving farewell).
EXAMPLE
Der Film endete mit einer sehr ergreifenden Szene.
The film ended with a very moving scene.
Register and style
'Ergreifend' (moving/touching) is an expressive word that describes a deep emotional reaction. It is often used in written language or in situations where you want to express strong feelings.
EXAMPLE
Seine Dankesrede war kurz, aber unglaublich ergreifend.
His acceptance speech was short but incredibly moving.
Compare with
ergreifend vs bewegend
moving
Bewegend and ergreifend describe something that evokes strong emotions. Bewegend is the more general choice. Ergreifend usually emphasizes an especially deep and intense effect, such as when something evokes great compassion or deep grief.
ergreifend
Die Abschiedsrede der Direktorin war ergreifend, als sie unter Tränen von ihrer verstorbenen Freundin sprach.
The principal’s farewell speech was deeply moving as she spoke about her deceased friend through tears.
bewegend
Die Abschiedsrede der Direktorin war bewegend und machte viele Gäste nachdenklich.
The principal’s farewell speech was moving and made many of the guests reflect.
In real life
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