01
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
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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 lächerlich
ridiculous
'lächerlich' and 'niedlich' can both sound negative when you are not taking something seriously. 'lächerlich' is stronger and more direct: it says that something is silly, absurd, or far too little. 'niedlich' is actually positive and means pretty or adorable. Ironically, however, it can mean: that is well meant, but too small, naive, or harmless. If you want to criticize something clearly, 'lächerlich' fits better. 'niedlich' often sounds more indirect and sometimes condescending.
niedlich
Dein Plan ist ja niedlich, aber damit lösen wir das große Problem nicht.
Your plan is cute, but it will not solve the big problem.
lächerlich
Für so viel Arbeit ist dieses Gehalt wirklich lächerlich.
For that much work, this salary is really ridiculous.
In real life
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