toxic
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toxic
A substance that is poisonous or harmful to the health of living beings.
Viele Reinigungsmittel enthalten toxische Chemikalien, die nicht eingeatmet werden sollten.
Many cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that should not be inhaled.
toxic
Used figuratively for relationships, behaviors, or environments that are psychologically harmful, stressful, or destructive.
Sie hat die toxische Beziehung zu ihrem Partner endlich beendet.
She finally ended the toxic relationship with her partner.
The word 'toxisch' (toxic) comes from Greek and is similar in many languages. The ending '-isch' is a typical German ending for adjectives. It belongs to the word family of 'das Toxin' (toxin/poisonous substance).
Einige Pilzarten enthalten ein für Menschen toxisches Gift.
Some types of mushrooms contain a toxin that is toxic to humans.
You can recognize the meaning of 'toxisch' (toxic) from the context. If it is about chemistry, biology, or medicine, the literal meaning 'giftig' (poisonous/toxic) is meant. If it is about people, relationships, or workplaces, the figurative, psychological meaning is meant.
Die Fabrik leitete toxische Abwässer in den Fluss.
The factory discharged toxic wastewater into the river.
In its literal meaning, 'toxisch' (toxic) is often used in scientific or medical contexts. Typical combinations are 'toxische Substanzen' (toxic substances), 'toxische Dämpfe' (toxic fumes), or a 'toxische Wirkung' (toxic effect).
Die Studie untersucht die toxische Wirkung des neuen Pestizids auf Insekten.
The study examines the toxic effect of the new pesticide on insects.
The figurative meaning is very modern and is often used in psychology and everyday language. Common combinations are a 'toxische Beziehung' (toxic relationship), 'toxisches Verhalten' (toxic behavior), or 'toxische Männlichkeit' (toxic masculinity).
Ein Therapeut half ihr, die Muster ihres toxischen Verhaltens zu verstehen.
A therapist helped her understand the patterns of her toxic behavior.
poisonous / venomous
Giftig and toxisch can both describe a substance that is harmful to health. Giftig is the general term commonly used in everyday language. Toxisch sounds more technical and emphasizes a substance's harmful effect; giftig is usually more suitable for an ordinary warning, while toxisch may be more appropriate in an objective description.
Der Bericht beschreibt, dass die Flüssigkeit bereits in kleinen Mengen toxisch wirkt.
The report states that the liquid has a toxic effect even in small amounts.
Auf dem Etikett steht, dass diese Flüssigkeit giftig ist.
The label says that this liquid is poisonous.
