eyesore / disgrace
Loading your saved state.
eyesore
A place, building, or object that is extremely ugly and spoils the beauty of its surroundings.
Die alte, verrostete Brücke ist ein Schandfleck in der Landschaft.
The old, rusty bridge is an eyesore in the landscape.
The word is composed of 'Schande' (shame, disgrace) and 'Fleck' (spot, stain). So it literally describes a 'Schandfleck' (stain of shame), which fits both an ugly place and a shameful act.
Die verfallene Fabrikhalle ist ein Schandfleck für die ganze Stadt.
The dilapidated factory hall is an eyesore for the whole city.
'Schandfleck' (eyesore/disgrace) is a very strong and judgmental word. It expresses a clearly negative opinion and is not neutral. It is used to express strong disapproval or disgust.
Die Anwohner bezeichneten den riesigen Müllberg als untragbaren Schandfleck.
The residents described the huge pile of garbage as an intolerable eyesore.
The preposition after 'Schandfleck' (eyesore/disgrace) helps identify the meaning. 'Ein Schandfleck in' (an eyesore in) usually refers to a physical place. 'Ein Schandfleck für' (a disgrace for) often refers to a group or an abstract concept.
Das Graffiti an der historischen Mauer ist ein Schandfleck in der Altstadt.
The graffiti on the historic wall is an eyesore in the old town.
shame / disgrace
'die Schande' and 'der Schandfleck' are related because both can express something very negative and shameful. 'Schande' generally means an action or state that damages honor and reputation. 'Schandfleck' is more concrete. It often refers to an ugly place or building that spoils its surroundings. Figuratively, it can also be a person, act, or situation that brings disgrace on a group. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with shame. For a general feeling or judgment, 'Schande' fits; for a specific disturbing spot or blemish, 'Schandfleck' fits.
Das verlassene Haus am Marktplatz gilt seit Jahren als Schandfleck des Viertels.
The abandoned house on the market square has been considered an eyesore in the neighborhood for years.
Die schlechten Zustände im Heim sind eine Schande für die Stadt.
The poor conditions in the care home are a disgrace to the city.