niedlich
cute
Pretty and charming in a childlike, small, or harmless way; adorable.
EXAMPLE
Das kleine Kätzchen ist wirklich unglaublich niedlich.
The little kitten is really incredibly cute.
niedlich
cute
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Meanings
niedlich
cute
(often ironic or condescending) Naive, harmless, or insignificant.
EXAMPLE
Das ist ja eine niedliche Idee, aber in der Praxis wird das niemals funktionieren.
That's a cute idea, but in practice it will never work.
Usage tips
Typical use
'Niedlich' (cute) is almost always used for small living beings such as babies, children, and young animals (e.g., puppies, kittens), or for small, pretty objects.
EXAMPLE
Schau mal, die Hundewelpen sind so niedlich!
Look, the puppies are so cute!
Right context
Avoid using 'niedlich' (cute) for adults you find attractive. It can sound condescending or inappropriate because it describes a childlike quality.
EXAMPLE
Das Baby in dem Kinderwagen ist wirklich niedlich.
The baby in the stroller is really cute.
Ironic meaning
When 'niedlich' (cute) is used for something abstract such as an idea, a plan, or an attempt, it is often meant ironically or condescendingly. It then means something like 'naiv' (naive) or 'unrealistisch' (unrealistic).
EXAMPLE
Ein niedlicher Versuch, das Problem zu lösen, aber das wird nicht reichen.
A cute attempt to solve the problem, but that won't be enough.
Compare with
niedlich vs süß
sweet / cute
Süß and niedlich can both express a positive reaction to a small animal. Niedlich particularly emphasizes a small, childlike, or harmless appearance. Süß can also highlight personal affection or endearing behavior.
niedlich
Mit seinen kurzen Beinen und großen Ohren sah der kleine Hund niedlich aus.
With its short legs and big ears, the little dog looked cute.
süß
Es war süß, wie der kleine Hund seinem Ball hinterherlief.
It was cute how the little dog chased after its ball.
In real life
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