mediocre
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mediocre
Of average but not especially good quality; neither good nor bad, often with a slightly negative tendency.
Der Service im Restaurant war leider nur mittelmäßig.
Unfortunately, the service in the restaurant was only mediocre.
The word consists of 'Mittel' (middle/medium) and the suffix '-mäßig' (-like/-wise). It literally means 'corresponding to the measure of the middle' and describes something that is in the middle in terms of quality.
Seine Leistung in der Prüfung war nur mittelmäßig.
His performance in the exam was only mediocre.
Although 'mittelmäßig' (mediocre) means average, it usually has a slightly negative meaning. It often expresses that something did not meet expectations and was not especially good.
Der Film war nicht schlecht, aber eben nur mittelmäßig.
The film wasn't bad, but it was really just mediocre.
The adjective is often used to evaluate the quality of performances, results, or products. Typical phrases are 'eine mittelmäßige Leistung' (a mediocre performance), 'ein mittelmäßiges Ergebnis' (a mediocre result), or 'ein mittelmäßiges Essen' (a mediocre meal).
Mit einem mittelmäßigen Zeugnis wird es schwer, einen Studienplatz zu finden.
With a mediocre report card, it will be difficult to find a place at university.
average
Both words can describe performance or quality in the middle range. „Durchschnittlich“ usually sounds neutral and comparative, while „mittelmäßig“ often shows slight dissatisfaction with the quality not being particularly good. Use „durchschnittlich“ for an objective assessment and „mittelmäßig“ for cautious criticism.
Der Film war unterhaltsam, aber seine Handlung blieb mittelmäßig.
The film was entertaining, but its plot was mediocre.
Die Ergebnisse der Gruppe waren insgesamt durchschnittlich.
Overall, the group’s results were average.
