01
schlapp
weak
To feel physically weak, tired, and without energy, often as a result of illness, exertion, or heat.
example
Nach der Grippe fühlte ich mich noch eine ganze Woche lang schlapp.
After the flu, I still felt weak for a whole week.
schlapp
weak / limp
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Sentence structure and usage
'Schlapp' (weak/limp) is very often used as a predicate adjective with verbs like 'sein' (to be) or 'sich fühlen' (to feel). The construction 'Ich fühle mich schlapp' (I feel weak) is especially typical.
EXAMPLE
Nach dem langen Arbeitstag war ich einfach nur schlapp.
After the long workday, I was simply exhausted and weak.
Register: colloquial
The word 'schlapp' (weak/limp) belongs more to colloquial language. It sounds natural in conversation, but in formal or written contexts, other words such as 'schwach' (weak) or 'kraftlos' (powerless) would often be used.
EXAMPLE
Mir ist heute so schlapp, ich glaube, ich werde krank.
I feel so weak today; I think I'm getting sick.
Context clue
The meaning of 'schlapp' (weak/limp) depends on the subject. If it refers to a person, it means 'müde/schwach' (tired/weak). If it refers to an object (e.g. a plant), it means 'schlaff/hängend' (limp/hanging). If it refers to something abstract (e.g. a performance), it means 'unzureichend' (insufficient).
EXAMPLE
Der Salat ist in der Sonne ganz schlapp geworden.
The lettuce became completely limp in the sun.
Typical causes
When a person feels 'schlapp' (weak), the typical causes in the sentence are often illness, intense heat, or physical exertion.
EXAMPLE
Bei dieser Hitze fühlt man sich den ganzen Tag nur schlapp.
In this heat, you just feel weak all day.
Compare with
schlapp vs fest
firm / fixed
'fest' and 'schlapp' are opposites when something hangs tautly or limply. Here, 'fest' means that something is tight, strong, or under tension. 'schlapp' means that something is not taut and hangs down limply. This fits, for example, with a strap, a tire, or a plant. Important: 'schlapp' can also mean tired, but in this relation it is about the opposite of taut or tight.
schlapp
Nach der Hitze hängen die Blätter der Pflanze schlapp herunter.
After the heat, the plant's leaves hang down limply.
fest
Bitte zieh das Seil fest, damit die Plane nicht wegfliegt.
Please pull the rope tight so the tarp doesn't blow away.
In real life
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