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flott
fast
Moving quickly, brisk, or done in a short time.
example
Mit dem neuen Fahrrad bin ich ziemlich flott unterwegs.
With the new bike, I get around pretty fast.
flott
fast / stylish
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Colloquial tone
The adjective 'flott' is mainly used in colloquial language. It often sounds livelier and more relaxed than other words for 'schnell' (fast) or 'schick' (stylish).
EXAMPLE
Mit dem E-Bike komme ich morgens ganz flott zur Arbeit.
With the e-bike, I get to work really fast in the morning.
Movement and speed
In the meaning 'schnell' (fast), 'flott' often describes movement, pace, or the quick completion of tasks. Typical phrases are 'flott gehen' (to go quickly) or 'flott vorankommen' (to make quick progress).
EXAMPLE
Die Reparatur ging wirklich flott, nach einer Stunde war alles erledigt.
The repair went really fast; after an hour everything was done.
Appearance and style
When 'flott' refers to people or clothing, it means 'modisch' (fashionable), 'schick' (stylish), or 'schwungvoll' (lively). It describes a dynamic and positive visual impression.
EXAMPLE
Deine neue Frisur sieht richtig flott aus!
Your new hairstyle looks really stylish!
Pay attention to context
In relation to behavior or language, 'flott' can also mean 'ungezwungen' (informal) or 'locker' (relaxed). Depending on the context, however, it can also have a slightly negative meaning and be understood as 'too direct' or 'cheeky'.
EXAMPLE
Er ist bekannt für seine flotten Sprüche, die nicht bei jedem gut ankommen.
He is known for his cheeky remarks, which don't go over well with everyone.
Compare with
flott vs schnell
fast / quick
'schnell' and 'flott' can both mean that something happens in a short time or at a good speed. 'schnell' is neutral and fits almost any context. 'flott' sounds more casual and often a bit more positive: it means not only fast, but also easy, lively, or effortless. For example, people say 'flott gehen' (to go smoothly / briskly), 'flott arbeiten' (to work quickly), or 'ein flotter Service' (fast, efficient service). In formal situations, 'schnell' is usually the safer choice.
flott
Im kleinen Restaurant war der Service freundlich und flott.
In the small restaurant, the service was friendly and quick.
schnell
Hat dein Handy das Update schnell installiert?
Did your phone install the update quickly?
In real life
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