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.
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.
normal
'normal' and 'pervers' are strong opposites. 'normal' describes something that corresponds to usual expectations or rules. 'pervers' describes something that deviates strongly from them and is often perceived as unnatural, absurd, or extremely inappropriate. The word 'pervers' is very judgmental and can sound harsh. That is why you should not use it for everything that is merely unusual. For neutral differences, 'nicht normal' (not normal) or 'ungewöhnlich' (unusual) is often better.
Viele fanden es pervers, dass die Preise nach dem Unfall sofort stiegen.
Many people found it absurd that prices rose immediately after the accident.
Es ist normal, vor einer wichtigen Prüfung nervös zu sein.
It is normal to be nervous before an important exam.