keck
cheeky / bold
Acting confidently in a charming, brave, or slightly cheeky and disrespectful way.
EXAMPLE
Mit einem kecken Grinsen bat sie um eine Gehaltserhöhung.
With a cheeky grin, she asked for a raise.
keck
cheeky / bold
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Meanings
keck
bold / brave
An outdated term for bold, daring, or brave.
EXAMPLE
Der kecke Recke zog furchtlos in die Schlacht.
The bold warrior marched fearlessly into battle.
Usage tips
Connotation and style
The word 'keck' (cheeky/bold) describes an impudent manner that is often perceived as charming, witty, or brave. It usually has a positive or admiring connotation and is often used for children or in playful situations.
EXAMPLE
Das kleine Mädchen gab dem Kellner eine kecke Antwort.
The little girl gave the waiter a cheeky answer.
Typical collocations
'Keck' (cheeky/bold) is often used to describe a specific action or expression. Typical combinations are 'ein keckes Lächeln' (a cheeky smile), 'eine kecke Frage' (a cheeky question), 'ein kecker Spruch' (a cheeky remark), or 'keck antworten' (to answer cheekily).
EXAMPLE
Seine kecke Frage brachte alle zum Lachen.
His cheeky question made everyone laugh.
Context clue
The meaning 'kühn' (bold) or 'tapfer' (brave) is outdated. It is found almost only in historical texts, fairy tales, or old-fashioned poetry. In modern German, 'keck' (cheeky/bold) is no longer used in this sense.
EXAMPLE
In der alten Sage wird von einem kecken Helden berichtet.
In the old legend, a bold hero is mentioned.
Compare with
keck vs frech
cheeky / impertinent
Frech and keck can both describe a bold, slightly provocative manner. However, frech can sound clearly disrespectful and negative, while keck usually sounds charming and approving, though somewhat elevated or old-fashioned. Use frech when a possible overstepping of boundaries is meant, and keck for charming self-confidence.
keck
Der Junge gab seiner Lehrerin eine kecke Antwort und brachte sie damit zum Lachen.
The boy gave his teacher a cheeky reply, making her laugh.
frech
Der Junge gab seiner Lehrerin eine freche Antwort und grinste dabei.
The boy gave his teacher a cheeky reply and grinned.
In real life
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