01
göttlich
divine
Relating to a god or deity; originating from or belonging to a god.
example
In vielen Religionen wird Blitzen als Zeichen göttlicher Macht angesehen.
In many religions, lightning is seen as a sign of divine power.
göttlich
divine
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word formation
The adjective 'göttlich' (divine) is derived directly from the noun 'der Gott' (god). The ending '-lich' means 'like' or 'belonging to'. So the literal meaning is 'like a god' or 'originating from a god'.
EXAMPLE
Die alten Griechen glaubten an göttliche Botschaften durch Orakel.
The ancient Greeks believed in divine messages through oracles.
Context clue
The context makes the meaning clear. If someone is talking about religion, mythology, or philosophy, the literal meaning 'divine' is intended. If someone is talking about food, appearance, or experiences, the colloquial meaning 'wonderful' is intended.
EXAMPLE
Die Theologin sprach über die göttliche Schöpfung.
The theologian spoke about divine creation.
Register and style
In the meaning of 'wonderful' or 'excellent', 'göttlich' (divine) is colloquial and a strong exaggeration. It is used to express great enthusiasm.
EXAMPLE
Der Schokoladenkuchen deiner Oma ist einfach göttlich!
Your grandma's chocolate cake is simply divine!
Typical collocations
In colloquial use, 'göttlich' (divine) is often connected with sensory impressions. Typical phrases are 'göttlich schmecken' (to taste divine), 'göttlich aussehen' (to look divine), or 'eine göttliche Ruhe' (a divine calm).
EXAMPLE
Du siehst in diesem Kleid einfach göttlich aus.
You look simply divine in this dress.
Compare with
göttlich vs heilig
holy / sacred
'heilig' and 'göttlich' can both sound religious and be connected with God or a deity. 'heilig' describes something that is venerated or especially protected and important in a religion. 'göttlich' more often describes that something comes from a god, belongs to a god, or has a godlike effect. Learners may confuse the words because both appear in religious texts. In addition, 'göttlich' is also used informally and exaggeratingly for something very beautiful or delicious; 'heilig' does not fit in that use.
göttlich
Nach dem langen Spaziergang schmeckte der Kuchen einfach göttlich.
After the long walk, the cake tasted simply divine.
heilig
Das heilige Buch liegt in einem besonderen Schrank.
The holy book is kept in a special cabinet.
In real life
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