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Of enormous size, very impressive, and of lasting significance, similar to a monument. Often refers to buildings, art, or achievements.
Die Pyramiden von Gizeh sind monumentale Bauwerke der Antike.
The pyramids of Giza are monumental structures of antiquity.
The adjective 'monumental' is directly related to the noun 'das Monument' (monument). It describes things that have the qualities of a monument: huge, impressive, and enduring.
Der Künstler schuf eine monumentale Skulptur für den Stadtpark.
The artist created a monumental sculpture for the city park.
'Monumental' belongs to an elevated or educated register. In everyday conversation, other words would often be used for 'very large' or 'huge.'
Der Sieg der Mannschaft war eine monumentale Leistung.
The team's victory was a monumental achievement.
In its literal meaning, 'monumental' is often used to describe buildings, works of art, tombs, or landscapes.
Die Kathedrale beeindruckt durch ihre monumentale Architektur.
The cathedral impresses with its monumental architecture.
In a figurative sense, 'monumental' describes the enormous scale of abstract things. Typical combinations are 'ein monumentaler Fehler' (a monumental mistake), 'eine monumentale Aufgabe' (a monumental task), or 'monumentales Versagen' (monumental failure).
Die Firma hat durch eine Fehleinschätzung einen monumentalen Verlust erlitten.
The company suffered a monumental loss because of a misjudgment.
enormous
'enorm' and 'monumental' both describe something very large or significant. 'enorm' is more general and fits many things, such as costs, problems, joy, or work. 'monumental' sounds stronger and more solemn. It fits especially well with buildings, art, major achievements, or events that seem very impressive. Figuratively, a mistake can also be 'monumental' if it is very serious. For normal everyday situations, 'enorm' is usually more natural.
Der Film zeigt eine monumentale Stadt aus alten Tempeln und breiten Straßen.
The film shows a monumental city of ancient temples and wide streets.
Vor der Prüfung hat Lisa einen enormen Lernstoff vor sich.
Before the exam, Lisa has an enormous amount of material to study.