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kunstvoll
artful / elaborate
In a way that shows great artistic skill, creativity, and often also complexity or sophistication.
example
Sie trug eine kunstvoll geflochtene Frisur.
She wore an elaborately braided hairstyle.
kunstvoll
artful / elaborate
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
The adjective 'kunstvoll' (artful/elaborate) consists of the noun 'Kunst' (art) and the ending '-voll' (-ful). So it literally means 'full of art' or 'full of artistic skill.'
EXAMPLE
Der Rahmen des Spiegels ist sehr kunstvoll gestaltet.
The frame of the mirror is designed very elaborately.
Sentence structure
'Kunstvoll' (artful/elaborate) can stand as an adjective before a noun or as an adverb describing a verb or another adjective. As an adverb, it remains unchanged.
EXAMPLE
Sie bewunderte das kunstvolle Muster auf dem Teppich.
She admired the elaborate pattern on the carpet.
Typical collocations
The word often describes things that have been made or decorated with skill. Typical verbs in this context are 'gestalten' (to design), 'verzieren' (to decorate), 'flechten' (to braid), or 'schnitzen' (to carve).
EXAMPLE
Die alte Holztruhe war kunstvoll geschnitzt.
The old wooden chest was elaborately carved.
Compare with
kunstvoll vs schlicht
simple / plain
'schlicht' and 'kunstvoll' form a contrast when it comes to design. 'schlicht' means plain, simple, and without many details. 'kunstvoll' means that something is made with great skill, creativity, and often many fine details. A 'schlichter Ring' (plain ring) may have only a clear, simple shape; a 'kunstvoller Ring' (artfully made ring) has patterns, decorations, or special craftsmanship. 'schlicht' emphasizes simplicity, while 'kunstvoll' emphasizes elaborate design.
kunstvoll
An der Wand hing ein kunstvoll gemaltes Bild mit vielen kleinen Details.
On the wall hung an artfully painted picture with many small details.
schlicht
Wir entschieden uns für einen schlichten Holztisch in der Küche.
We chose a simple wooden table for the kitchen.
In real life
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