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.
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.
harmless
'harmlos' and 'toxisch' are often clear opposites when it comes to harm. 'harmlos' means that something is not dangerous and does not harm anyone. 'toxisch' means either literally poisonous, for example with substances, or figuratively harmful to people, such as in relationships or behavior. If you want to say that there is no danger, 'harmlos' fits. If something causes physical or emotional harm, 'toxisch' is more precise.
Diese Chemikalie ist toxisch und darf nicht ohne Schutz angefasst werden.
This chemical is toxic and must not be touched without protection.
Der Ausschlag sieht schlimm aus, ist aber laut Ärztin harmlos.
The rash looks bad, but according to the doctor it is harmless.