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herrlich
wonderful
Very beautiful, wonderful, or magnificent; causing an intense feeling of pleasure.
example
Von der Bergspitze hatten wir eine herrliche Aussicht auf das Tal.
From the mountaintop, we had a wonderful view of the valley.
herrlich
wonderful
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
'Herrlich' (wonderful) is derived from 'der Herr' (the lord / gentleman). Originally, it described something worthy of a lord — that is, splendid, noble, and magnificent.
EXAMPLE
Wir verbrachten einen herrlichen Nachmittag am See.
We spent a wonderful afternoon by the lake.
Typical collocations
'Herrlich' (wonderful) is often used to describe positive sensory impressions. Typical combinations are 'herrliches Wetter' (wonderful weather), 'eine herrliche Aussicht' (a wonderful view), or 'ein herrlicher Duft' (a wonderful scent).
EXAMPLE
Nach der langen Wanderung war das kalte Getränk eine herrliche Erfrischung.
After the long hike, the cold drink was a wonderful refreshment.
Ironic usage
As an adverb, 'herrlich' (wonderfully) can also be used ironically to emphasize a negative quality or an absurd situation. It then means something like 'especially' or 'typically'.
EXAMPLE
Er hat den Termin herrlich ignoriert und ist einfach nicht gekommen.
He wonderfully ignored the appointment and simply didn't show up.
Compare with
herrlich vs schön
beautiful / nice
'schön' and 'herrlich' both express that something is positive and pleasant. 'schön' is very general: it works for appearance, feelings, experiences, and many everyday situations. 'herrlich' is stronger. It sounds more enthusiastic and often means that something is especially beautiful, wonderful, or very pleasant. You can have a 'schöner Tag' (nice day), but a 'herrlicher Tag' sounds like especially good weather or an especially good feeling.
herrlich
Am Morgen ist die Luft am See herrlich frisch.
In the morning, the air by the lake is wonderfully fresh.
schön
Wir hatten einen schönen Abend mit der Familie.
We had a nice evening with the family.
In real life
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