01
das Fiasko
fiasco
An event or undertaking that fails completely in an embarrassing or catastrophic way; a total failure.
example
Die Premiere des Theaterstücks endete in einem Fiasko.
The premiere of the play ended in a fiasco.
das Fiasko
fiasco
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Meanings
Usage tips
Strong register
'Fiasko' (fiasco) is a very strong word and describes a total, often public and embarrassing failure. It is not used for small mistakes or mishaps.
EXAMPLE
Das Projekt wurde nach dem finanziellen Fiasko sofort gestoppt.
The project was stopped immediately after the financial fiasco.
Typical collocations
The word is often combined with verbs like 'erleben' (to experience) or 'verhindern' (to prevent). People often speak of a 'finanzielles' (financial), 'politisches' (political), or 'persönliches Fiasko' (personal fiasco).
EXAMPLE
Die Organisatoren versuchten alles, um ein Fiasko zu verhindern.
The organizers tried everything to prevent a fiasco.
Use with 'enden'
A very common construction is 'in einem Fiasko enden' (to end in a fiasco). It describes the catastrophic result of an action or event.
EXAMPLE
Die Verhandlungen endeten in einem Fiasko, da keine Seite nachgeben wollte.
The negotiations ended in a fiasco because neither side wanted to give in.
Compare with
Fiasko vs Erfolg
success
'der Erfolg' and 'das Fiasko' describe opposite outcomes. A success is a positive result because a plan works or a goal is achieved. A fiasco is a total failure, often with embarrassing or very bad consequences. 'Fiasko' is stronger than a simple problem or a small mistake. You use it when an entire action or event fails completely.
Fiasko
Die Präsentation wurde zum Fiasko, weil die Technik nicht funktionierte und niemand vorbereitet war.
The presentation turned into a fiasco because the technology did not work and no one was prepared.
Erfolg
Nach vielen Wochen Übung war die Prüfung für Lena ein großer Erfolg.
After many weeks of practice, the exam was a great success for Lena.
In real life
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