kurzfristig
short-term
Refers to a short period of time or a short duration.
EXAMPLE
Wir suchen eine kurzfristige Lösung, bis die endgültige Entscheidung getroffen wird.
We are looking for a short-term solution until the final decision is made.
kurzfristig
short-term / at short notice
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Meanings
kurzfristig
at short notice
Happening with little lead time or advance notice.
EXAMPLE
Leider muss ich unseren Termin für morgen kurzfristig absagen.
Unfortunately, I have to cancel our appointment for tomorrow at short notice.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of 'kurz' (short) and 'Frist' (deadline/period). A 'Frist' is a fixed period of time. So 'kurzfristig' describes something that refers to a short period of time or happens quickly.
EXAMPLE
Für das Projekt gibt es nur eine sehr kurze Frist.
There is only a very short deadline for the project.
Adjective or adverb
'Kurzfristig' can stand before a noun as an adjective or be used as an adverb that describes a verb. Both uses are very common.
EXAMPLE
Das ist nur eine kurzfristige Lösung des Problems.
This is only a short-term solution to the problem.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'with little lead time', 'kurzfristig' is often combined with verbs such as 'absagen' (to cancel), 'verschieben' (to postpone/reschedule), 'ändern' (to change), or 'entscheiden' (to decide).
EXAMPLE
Die Pläne haben sich kurzfristig geändert.
The plans changed at short notice.
Compare with
kurzfristig vs spontan
spontaneous
For an arrangement made with little advance notice, either word may fit. „Spontan“ emphasizes that the decision arose from an impulse without prior planning, whereas „kurzfristig“ refers only to the short period between the announcement and the appointment. So ask whether the focus is on the planning or on the amount of advance notice.
kurzfristig
Wir wurden kurzfristig informiert, dass das Treffen heute im Park stattfindet.
We were informed at short notice that the meeting would take place in the park that day.
spontan
Wir beschlossen spontan, uns noch heute im Park zu treffen.
We spontaneously decided to meet in the park later that day.
In real life
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