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phantastisch
fantastic
A colloquial expression of enthusiasm; means something like great, excellent, or wonderful.
example
Das Konzert gestern Abend war einfach phantastisch!
The concert last night was simply fantastic!
phantastisch
fantastic
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The word 'phantastisch' (fantastic) is derived from the noun 'die Phantasie' (imagination/fantasy). The basic meaning 'arising from the imagination' is still recognizable in all uses.
EXAMPLE
Kinder haben oft eine blühende Phantasie.
Children often have a vivid imagination.
Alternative spelling
Besides 'phantastisch', the spelling 'fantastisch' is also correct and very common. Both variants have the same meaning.
EXAMPLE
Der Urlaub war fantastisch, wir hatten eine tolle Zeit.
The vacation was fantastic; we had a great time.
Distinguishing meanings
You can recognize the meaning from the context: As an expression of enthusiasm, it is a personal evaluation. In connection with stories or art, it means 'irreal' (unreal). In connection with numbers or amounts, it means 'unglaublich groß' (incredibly large).
EXAMPLE
Deine Idee ist phantastisch!
Your idea is fantastic!
Use as an exclamation
In colloquial speech, 'phantastisch' (fantastic) is often used on its own as an enthusiastic exclamation or as a response to express strong approval or joy.
EXAMPLE
Du hast die Prüfung bestanden? Phantastisch!
You passed the exam? Fantastic!
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'irreal' (unreal), the adjective is often combined with nouns from the field of fiction, for example 'phantastische Welten' (fantastic worlds), 'phantastische Geschichten' (fantastic stories), or 'phantastische Wesen' (fantastic beings).
EXAMPLE
Der Film entführt die Zuschauer in eine phantastische Welt voller Magie.
The film transports viewers into a fantastic world full of magic.
Compare with
phantastisch vs super
super
'super' and 'phantastisch' can both express that something is very good. 'super' sounds casual and everyday. It is quickly used for many things, for example for a plan, a meal, or a result. 'phantastisch' sounds stronger and more enthusiastic, sometimes also a little more formal or celebratory. It works well when you are really very impressed. In simple everyday situations, 'super' is often more natural; with strong enthusiasm, 'phantastisch' feels more precise.
phantastisch
Die Aussicht vom Berg war phantastisch.
The view from the mountain was fantastic.
super
Das Essen bei Maria war super.
The food at Maria's was super.
In real life
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