perverse / absurd
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perverse
Describes sexual behavior or an inclination that deviates strongly from the social norm and is perceived as unnatural or deviant.
Der Täter hatte nachweislich perverse Neigungen.
The perpetrator was proven to have perverse inclinations.
absurd
Used figuratively to describe something as absurd, bizarre, or extremely inappropriate.
Es ist doch pervers, für eine Tasse Kaffee zehn Euro zu verlangen.
It's absurd to charge ten euros for a cup of coffee.
The meaning depends heavily on the context. If it is about sexual behavior, the literal, very strong meaning is intended. If it is about prices, quantities, or situations, the figurative, colloquial meaning 'absurd' is intended.
Er wurde wegen seiner perversen Taten verurteilt.
He was convicted for his perverse acts.
In its sexual meaning, 'pervers' (perverse) is a very strong, judgmental word. It is often used in psychological, criminological, or legal contexts and has very negative connotations in everyday language.
Ein Gutachter analysierte das perverse Verhalten des Angeklagten.
An expert analyzed the perverse behavior of the defendant.
In the figurative meaning, 'pervers' (absurd) is used colloquially as strong exaggeration (hyperbole) to express outrage or disbelief about something perceived as extreme or absurd.
Er hat ein perverses Glück beim Kartenspielen, er gewinnt immer.
He has absurd luck at cards; he always wins.
In the colloquial meaning, the word is often combined with money, quantities, or abstract concepts: 'perverse Preise' (absurd prices), 'perverse Verschwendung' (absurd waste), or 'eine perverse Logik' (a perverse logic).
Die Gehälter mancher Manager sind einfach nur pervers.
The salaries of some managers are simply absurd.
extreme / perverse
Pervers and abartig can describe sexual behavior as deviating strongly from social norms and being considered repulsive. Pervers refers especially to the sexual deviation, while abartig more generally emphasizes a deviation perceived as unnatural or morally reprehensible. Both words are strongly derogatory.
Die Zeitung bezeichnete das sexuelle Verhalten des Mannes als pervers.
The newspaper described the man's sexual behavior as perverse.
Die Zeitung bezeichnete das sexuelle Verhalten des Mannes als abartig.
The newspaper described the man's sexual behavior as deviant.
