die Panik
panic
A state of sudden, extreme fear that can lead to uncontrolled and irrational behavior.
EXAMPLE
Als der Feueralarm losging, brach unter den Zuschauern Panik aus.
When the fire alarm went off, panic broke out among the spectators.
die Panik
panic
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Meanings
die Panik
panic
Colloquial for exaggerated worry, excitement, or stress in a situation that does not justify it.
EXAMPLE
Mach keine Panik, wir schaffen das schon rechtzeitig zum Bahnhof.
Don't panic, we'll still make it to the station on time.
Usage tips
Typical verbs
'Panik' (panic) is often used with fixed verbs that describe a process. You 'gerät in Panik' (start to panic) or 'Panik bricht aus' (panic suddenly breaks out in a group).
EXAMPLE
Als das Licht ausfiel, gerieten einige Leute in Panik.
When the lights went out, some people panicked.
Colloquial expression
In everyday language, the expression 'Panik machen' (to make a panic / to panic) is often used for exaggerated worry. A very common command is 'Mach keine Panik!' (Don't panic!) to calm someone down.
EXAMPLE
Nur weil der Bus fünf Minuten zu spät ist, musst du nicht gleich Panik machen.
Just because the bus is five minutes late, you don't need to panic right away.
Context clue
The serious meaning of 'Panik' (panic) refers to a real danger such as a fire, an accident, or a disaster. The colloquial meaning refers to everyday stress such as time pressure or a difficult task.
EXAMPLE
Die Evakuierung verlief ruhig und ohne Panik.
The evacuation proceeded calmly and without panic.
Compare with
Panik vs Angst
fear
Die Angst is the more general word for a strong, unpleasant feeling of threat. Die Panik, on the other hand, refers to sudden, extreme fear in which people lose control and may act irrationally. Use Angst for the feeling in general and Panik for this kind of sudden escalation.
Panik
Als der Rauch dichter wurde, bekam sie Panik und rannte unkontrolliert hinaus.
As the smoke grew thicker, she panicked and ran out uncontrollably.
Angst
Vor dem brennenden Haus hatte sie große Angst.
She was very afraid in front of the burning house.
In real life
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